Overwatch 2 Gets Major Update: Loot Boxes, Perks, and Third-Person Mode Return

As we approach 2025, Overwatch 2 is set to undergo transformative changes, promising an exciting new era for fans of the beloved hero shooter. With nine years since the original Overwatch launch in 2016 and over two-and-a-half years since Overwatch 2 debuted, Blizzard is gearing up for a significant shift in gameplay mechanics starting with Season 15 on February 18, introducing hero perks that will redefine how the game is played.

Blizzard's game director Aaron Keller, along with other team members, has unveiled a series of updates and changes slated for Overwatch 2. These include new heroes, collaborations, and a completely new way to experience the game, all aimed at rekindling player interest amidst fierce competition from other titles like NetEase's Marvel Rivals.

Overwatch 2 is Adding Hero Perks

A groundbreaking feature coming to Overwatch 2 is the introduction of hero perks. Each hero will now have the option to select two perks—minor and major—during a match. At level two, players can choose a minor perk to enhance a base aspect of their hero. For example, Orisa's primary fire might refund Heat on critical hits. On the other hand, a major perk can significantly alter a hero's abilities mid-match, such as swapping Orisa's Javelin Spin for her Barrier or making her Energy Javelin chargeable, with increased speed, knockback, and the ability to pierce through enemies.

These perks unlock at various levels throughout the match, offering "gameplay-shifting" options as described by Overwatch 2 lead gameplay designer Alec Dawson. Players will face a crucial decision, as choosing one perk means forgoing the other, reminiscent of the talent system in Blizzard's Heroes of the Storm.

Overwatch 2 Perks

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Stadium: A New Round-Based Mode with Third-Person

In Season 16, planned for April, Overwatch 2 will introduce Stadium mode, described by Keller as the "biggest game mode" since the launch of Overwatch. This 5v5, best-of-7 round-based competitive mode allows players to accrue and spend currency between rounds to enhance their heroes. These modifications can boost attributes like survivability or damage, and traits can lead to significant hero changes, such as enabling Reaper to fly in Wraith Form. While perks won't be available in Stadium initially, there's potential for their inclusion in the future.

Stadium mode will also feature a third-person perspective, allowing players to "see more of the battlefield and your modifications in action," according to Keller. Players can switch between first and third-person views, adding a new layer of strategy. Stadium will launch with a core roster of 14 heroes, with plans for more heroes, maps, and modes to be added over time.

Overwatch 2 Stadium Screenshots

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GOATs are Coming to Overwatch Classic

Blizzard is not stopping at new modes; they're also revisiting old favorites. Season 16 will see the return of Overwatch Classic, bringing back the iconic "GOATs Meta" from Overwatch 1, with its three-tank, three-support composition. This nostalgic mode will be accompanied by a 6v6 competitive open queue, featuring a maximum of two tanks per team, and more events are on the horizon.

The development team is also planning a series of seasonal events, including April Fools', Summer Games, and Dr. Junkenstein's Halloween event, ensuring a constant stream of fresh content.

Freja Arrives in Season 16 - and Aqua Follows

Season 16 will introduce a new hero, Freja, a crossbow-wielding bounty hunter from Denmark. Her abilities allow her to fill enemies with explosive bolts and use bolas to immobilize fleeing opponents. Alongside Freja, Blizzard teased concept art for their next hero, Aqua, who wields an ornate staff and manipulates water, hinting at exciting new gameplay possibilities.

Overwatch 2 New Heroes Screenshots

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Loot Boxes are Back

In a surprising move, Blizzard is bringing back loot boxes to Overwatch 2. These will be available through the free track of the battle pass and weekly rewards, ensuring they remain accessible without additional cost. A key change is the transparency of loot box contents, with players able to view the odds of receiving different items before opening them, as explained by senior systems designer Gavin Winter.

Hero Bans, Map Voting, and More are Coming to Competitive Play

Competitive play in Overwatch 2 is set to evolve significantly. Season 15 will reset competitive ranks, but new rewards like Galactic weapon skins and special weapon charms will motivate players to climb back up. Hero portraits will once again feature rank icons.

Season 16 will introduce hero bans, a common feature in other competitive games, which could add a fresh dynamic to matches. Following this, Blizzard plans to implement map voting, further enhancing the competitive experience.

Overwatch 2 Season 15 Screenshots

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Cosmetics Galore

Overwatch 2 is set to dazzle with a plethora of new cosmetics. Zenyatta will receive a Mythic skin inspired by the dragon Pixiu in Season 15, alongside new skins for heroes like Doomfist, Venture, Tracer, Junker Queen, and more. Midway through Season 15, a Mythic weapon skin for Widowmaker will be introduced.

Looking further ahead, players can expect a "Dokiwatch" Mythic skin for Juno, inspired by magical girls, and Mythic weapon skins for Mercy and Reaper. D.Va will also receive a Mythic skin later on. Additionally, Blizzard is planning more collaborations, including a second partnership with K-pop group LE SSERAFIM, bringing new in-game skins and cosmetics in March.

Overwatch 2 New Cosmetics

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The Competitive Landscape Grows

The competitive scene for Overwatch is expanding with a new stage in China, doubling the amount of gameplay and broadcasts. Integration with Face.it leagues and a new tournament system for promotion and relegation are also on the horizon. Teams will receive in-game items, with proceeds supporting the organizations, enhancing the competitive ecosystem.