Overwatch 2 update 4.40 adds Taking Reign event and hero changes

Blizzard released update 4.40 for Overwatch 2 on November 3. The update includes the Taking Reign event, which runs from November 3 to December 7. Players can earn exclusive event rewards through challenges or upgrade to earn premium items like a Vendetta heroic weapon and a legendary Doomfist skin.

Image: MP1st

Other limited-time events include the Excavation Initiative from November 3 to December 7, where players earn Base, Epic, and Legendary Loot Boxes by logging in and winning games. Junkrat’s Loot Hunt returns from November 19 to November 23 with Double XP. The OWCS World Finals Cheer Rally is scheduled to begin on November 24.

Blizzard says it has improved detection tools to more accurately identify gameplay sabotage, such as players intentionally failing to contribute to fights or repeatedly jumping off maps. The update also adds "Thank You" messages to the Notification Hub when players are penalized following a report for disruptive behavior.

The patch includes various hero changes. Blizzard says Dmon's burst potential was reduced by removing impact damage from Propulsors and reducing Overstrike lifesteal. Junker Queen received increased base health and a reduced Carnage cooldown. Mauga's base armor was restored and his burning damage increased. Ramattra's Void Accelerator now has more ammo. Revitalizing Barrier's healing was slightly reduced. Anran received increased Zhuque Fans damage and a reduced Vermillion Ascent cast time. Aerial Munitions now refills ammo, and Cyber Frag's detonation time was reduced. Genji's Deflect duration was reduced. Sombra's hacked health packs can no longer be overridden by Sonic Disruption.