Strategic summary and impact analysis for patch 7.40.
Patch 7.40 emphasizes early game skirmishes and securing map objectives. Changes to tower armor, Outpost gold, and Tormentor rewards mean that teams capable of grouping and fighting effectively from the 10-minute mark will gain significant advantages, dictating the tempo of the game.
Adjustments to bounty rune spawn rates and base creep gold distribution have provided supports with a more consistent income stream. This allows them to acquire crucial early items like Arcane Boots, Glimmer Cape, and Force Staff faster, enabling earlier impact and better teamfight presence.
With the increased value of early teamfights and objective contests, durable frontline initiators who can absorb damage, create space, and lock down key targets are paramount. Heroes that can reliably start fights and survive the initial burst are highly prized.