Overwatch 2: Blizzard Unveils Major Update

Overwatch 2 is undergoing a major transformation in 2025, exceeding typical content updates. The core gameplay is set for a significant overhaul, most notably the introduction of hero perks. Nearly nine years after the original Overwatch's debut and two and a half years since Overwatch 2's launch, Season 15 (starting February 18th) will fundamentally change how the game is played.

Game director Aaron Keller and the Blizzard team announced sweeping changes, including new collaborations, heroes, and a completely revamped gameplay experience. These changes aim to revitalize Overwatch 2's appeal, particularly in the face of competition from titles like NetEase's Marvel Rivals.

Overwatch 2: Hero Perks

Each hero will gain two selectable perks—minor and major—earned through level progression during matches. Minor perks (unlocked at level two) subtly enhance base abilities; for example, Orisa's primary fire might refund Heat on critical hits. Major perks drastically alter gameplay, potentially replacing abilities like swapping Orisa's Javelin Spin for her Barrier, or enhancing her Energy Javelin with increased speed, knockback, and piercing capabilities. These are mutually exclusive choices, mirroring the talent systems in Blizzard's *Heroes of the Storm*. These "gameplay-shifting" alterations, as lead gameplay designer Alec Dawson describes them, unlock progressively throughout the match.

Stadium: A New Round-Based Mode

Season 16 (anticipated for April) introduces Stadium, a 5v5, best-of-7 round-based competitive mode. Keller calls it the "biggest game mode" since the original Overwatch. Players earn and spend currency between rounds to upgrade heroes, enhancing attributes like damage and survivability, or unlocking significant ability changes (e.g., Reaper flying in Wraith Form). While perks aren't initially included in Stadium, future integration isn't ruled out. The mode uniquely features a selectable third-person perspective for a broader battlefield view. Launch will include 14 heroes, with more added later alongside new maps and modes.

Overwatch Classic: The Return of GOATs

Blizzard continues experimenting with 6v6 and Overwatch Classic modes. A 6v6 competitive open queue (with a two-tank maximum) is planned. Overwatch Classic, arriving mid-Season 16, revives the "GOATs Meta" from Overwatch 1, bringing back the three-tank, three-support composition.

Seasonal events like April Fools', Summer Games, and Dr. Junkenstein's Halloween event are also planned.

New Heroes: Freja and Aqua

Freja, a crossbow-wielding bounty hunter, arrives in Season 16. Concept art for Aqua, a water-bending hero wielding an ornate staff, was also revealed.

The Return of Loot Boxes

Loot boxes are making a comeback, obtainable through the free battle pass track and weekly rewards. Unlike previous iterations, drop rates will be transparently displayed before opening.

Competitive Updates

Season 15 resets competitive ranks, introducing rewards like Galactic weapon skins and charms. Hero bans and map voting are coming in Season 16.

Cosmetics and Collaborations

Numerous new cosmetics are planned, including a Pixiu-inspired Zenyatta Mythic skin (Season 15), a Widowmaker Mythic weapon skin, and future Mythic skins for Juno, Mercy, Reaper, and D.Va. A second collaboration with LE SSERAFIM is set for March.

Competitive Expansion

The competitive scene expands with a new stage in China, increased live events, Face.it league integration, a new tournament system, and in-game team items with proceeds benefiting organizations.