Overwatch 2

Overwatch 2: New Heroes, changes to PVP, platforms, modes, maps, more

Joseph Pascoulis
overwatch 2

Overwatch fans have been eager to hear news about Overwatch 2, and now the game is finally here, we have the information you need to get up to speed.

Blizzard Entertainment’s Overwatch became a resounding success after its release in 2016. The hero-shooter title has become a massive esport and has achieved cult status in pop culture due to its memorable collection of characters.

Now, the developers are focusing their efforts on the highly-anticipated sequel. After announcing new Heroes, Hero changes, new maps, and a free-to-play format, Overwatch 2 is set to revive the popular shooter.

Here’s everything you need to know about Overwatch 2, including the release date, Heroes, and more.

Overwatch 2 release date

Since being revealed at Blizzcon 2019, we now have official confirmation that Overwatch 2 will arrive as a free-to-play title on October 4, 2022.

What happens to Overwatch 1?

Unfortunately, the original Overwatch has been shut down, as the servers closed on October 3.

Although fans of the original Overwatch and 6v6 gameplay will be disappointed, perhaps Overwatch 2 will feature a classic game mode that brings back the dual Tank combos post-launch.

Overwatch 2 platforms, crossplay, & cross-progression

overwatch 2 heroes fighting

The game is available now on all platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, & PC. This includes the previous generation of consoles as well.

Overwatch 2 also supports cross-play across consoles and PC. The game features cross-progression too, which means that players can switch between platforms and continue to use the same account with all of their cosmetics, settings, and level.

Biggest Overwatch 2 changes

5v5 & Tank changes

Overwatch 2 has dropped the 6v6 gameplay for 5v5, with teams now only being able to have one tank, as opposed to two. This completely changes the pace and flow of the game, making it easier for the more squishy characters to get aggressive.

Now, teams will have two damage, two support, and one tank, changing the balance of the game.

New format for Seasons

Overwatch 2 will be a free-to-play game, adopting a new seasonal format for content. Starting from the game’s launch, Season 1 will begin, and the game will now have its very first Battle Pass.

Battle Passes are common practice for free-to-play games, and it seems Overwatch 2 will be following the trend. Each Overwatch 2 Battle Pass will bring 80 tiers of cosmetics, with a free and premium option that players will need to pay for.

Each season will bring a highlight piece of content, with the new Hero Kiriko being the centerpiece for Season 1.

Overwatch 2 hero using abilityBlizzard

New Overwatch 2 game modes

Overwatch 2 sees the return of some classic game modes, including Payload and Control. However, the sequel to the hero shooter has brought a new game mode.

The new PvP mode is “Push,” which sees teams battling it out for control of a robot that needs to be pushed to the opponent’s base. There’s also another unannounced mode that’s set to feature one of the biggest PvP maps ever made, according to the devs.

The game will also see PvE modes for players to enjoy with friends.

PvE content in Overwatch 2

Overwatch 2 is also bringing some refreshing PvE content to the game, including a campaign mode which is set to release in 2023.

If you’d like to know more about Overwatch 2’s story mode, make sure you check out our guide which includes the plot of the mode and more.

All new Overwatch 2 Heroes

overwatch 2 kiriko

Overwatch 2 has not only reworked a variety of the heroes in the game, but it also delivered some brand-new heroes:

  • Sojourn – DPS
  • Junker Queen – Tank
  • Kiriko – Support

Sojourn‘s kit is focused around her powerful Railgun and Powerslide, a deadly choice for those who can take advantage of accuracy and movement.

Junker Queen is a brand-new tank whose abilities are focused on close-range combat and her life-steal ability, Adrenaline Rush.

Kiriko is Overwatch 2 Season 1’s new Hero, and they are a support-based Legend who looks to help the team through healing and invulnerability.

New Overwatch 2 Maps

midtown map in overwatch 2
  • Midtown (New York)
  • New Queen Street (Toronto)
  • Rio de Janeiro
  • Rome
  • Monte Carlo
  • Portugal

Overwatch 2 includes some brand-new maps. One is New York City, which consists of several large buildings such as Grand Central Station, pizza shops, and cafes. This area will also have a futuristic vibe to it.

Another new map is Rome, which combines old-world architecture like The Colosseum with modern structures such as a football stadium.

New Hero Looks in Overwatch 2

Overwatch fans have been expecting to see some brand-new Hero looks in the sequel, and we knew that there would be improvements to Genji, Lucio, Mai, Mercy, Reinhardt, Tracer, and Winston. However, BlizzCon 2021 revealed even more changes to other characters as well.

It turns out that Cassidy, Pharah, Reaper, and Widowmaker are getting brand-new hero textures, along with redesigned faces that will appear more expressive. The latter was probably a decision that was based on the game’s new campaign mode, which includes cutscenes.

For more on Overwatch 2, make sure you check out the best controller settings and best PC settings for optimized graphics and high FPS.

Image Credits: Blizzard Entertainment

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