Overwatch 2 Overhauled: Loot Boxes, Perks, and Third-Person Mode Return

As we approach 2025, Overwatch 2 is set to undergo transformative changes that promise to redefine the core gameplay experience. Now nearly nine years since the original Overwatch launched in 2016 and two-and-a-half years post-Overwatch 2's debut, the game is poised for a major evolution. Season 15, set to commence on February 18, will introduce a groundbreaking feature: hero perks, fundamentally altering how the game is played.

Blizzard's game director, Aaron Keller, along with other team members, has unveiled an ambitious roadmap filled with new content, heroes, and collaborations. This overhaul is Blizzard's response to the competitive pressure from games like NetEase's Marvel Rivals, aiming to reignite passion and interest in Overwatch 2.

Overwatch 2 is Adding Hero Perks

Each hero in Overwatch 2 will now have the ability to choose between two types of perks: minor and major. These perks become available at designated levels during a match. A minor perk at level two might enhance a fundamental aspect of the hero, such as Orisa's primary fire refunding Heat upon critical hits. On the other hand, a major perk can drastically change the hero's abilities mid-match, like swapping Orisa's Javelin Spin for her Barrier or making her Energy Javelin chargeable, increasing its speed, Knockback, and allowing it to pierce through enemies.

These perks are unlocked progressively throughout the match, offering "gameplay-shifting" options, as described by lead gameplay designer Alec Dawson. Players must choose between the perks, reminiscent of the talent system in Blizzard's Heroes of the Storm.

Overwatch 2 Perks

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

Season 16, slated for April, will introduce Stadium mode, described by Keller as the "biggest game mode" since Overwatch's inception. 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 unlock significant hero alterations, such as Reaper flying in his Wraith Form. Although perks are not included in Stadium initially, there's potential for their integration in the future.

Stadium mode also introduces a third-person perspective, enabling players to see more of the battlefield and their hero modifications in action. Players can switch between first and third-person views. The mode will launch with a core roster of 14 heroes, with plans to add more heroes, maps, and modes over time.

Overwatch 2 Stadium Screenshots

GOATs Return to Overwatch Classic

Blizzard is not stopping at new modes; they're also experimenting with 6v6 and Overwatch Classic. More events are planned, including a 6v6 competitive open queue with a maximum of two tanks per team. For those nostalgic for the original game's meta, Overwatch Classic will revive the "GOATs Meta" from Overwatch 1, bringing back the three-tank, three-support composition. This mode will launch midway through Season 16.

Additional seasonal events, such as April Fools', Summer Games, and Dr. Junkenstein's Halloween event, are also on the calendar.

New Heroes: Freja and Aqua

Season 16 will introduce Freja, a Danish crossbow-wielding bounty hunter who can shoot explosive bolts and use bolas to immobilize fleeing enemies. Alongside Freja, concept art for the upcoming hero, Aqua, was revealed. With an ornate staff and water manipulation abilities, Aqua promises to be an intriguing addition later this year.

Overwatch 2 New Heroes Screenshots

Loot Boxes Make a Comeback

In a surprising turn, Overwatch 2 is reintroducing loot boxes. These will be available through free means, such as the free track of the battle pass and weekly rewards, and will not be purchasable. A key change is the transparency regarding the contents of loot boxes, with odds displayed before opening. Senior systems designer Gavin Winter emphasized the balance between fun and transparency in this feature.

Competitive Play Enhancements

Season 15 will reset competitive ranks, introducing new rewards like Galactic weapon skins and special weapon charms to motivate players. Hero portraits will once again feature rank icons. A significant addition in Season 16 will be hero bans in competitive play, a feature common in many competitive games, aimed at keeping the meta fresh. Following this, map voting will also be implemented.

Overwatch 2 Season 15 Screenshots

A Plethora of New Cosmetics

Blizzard showcased an array of new cosmetics during their recent stream. Zenyatta will receive a Mythic skin inspired by the dragon Pixiu in Season 15, alongside skins for Doomfist, Venture, Tracer, Junker Queen, and more. A Mythic weapon skin for Widowmaker is also slated for mid-Season 15.

Looking further ahead, additional cosmetic options include a magical girl-inspired "Dokiwatch" Mythic skin for Juno, a Mythic weapon skin for Mercy, and Mythic skins for Reaper and D.Va. Overwatch 2's commitment to collaborations continues, with a second partnership with K-pop group LE SSERAFIM planned for March, bringing new in-game skins and cosmetics.

Overwatch 2 New Cosmetics

Expanding the Competitive Landscape

The competitive scene for Overwatch is expanding with a new stage in China and increased live events, doubling the amount of gameplay and broadcasts. Integration with Face.it leagues and a new tournament system for promotion and relegation are on the horizon. Teams will also benefit from in-game items that fans can purchase, with proceeds supporting the organizations directly.