Overwatch 2 is undergoing a major transformation in 2025. While new content is expected, core gameplay will be significantly altered with the introduction of hero perks. Almost nine years after the original Overwatch's release, and two and a half years after Overwatch 2's launch, Season 15 (February 18th) introduces this game-changing mechanic.
Game director Aaron Keller and the Blizzard team announced extensive updates, including new collaborations, heroes, and a completely revamped gameplay experience. These changes aim to revitalize Overwatch 2's appeal, especially considering competition from titles like NetEase's Marvel Rivals.
Hero Perks: A Gameplay Revolution
Each hero will receive two selectable perks – minor and major – unlocked at specific in-match levels. Minor perks offer subtle upgrades (e.g., Orisa's primary fire heat refund on critical hits), while major perks drastically alter gameplay (e.g., replacing Orisa's Javelin Spin with her Barrier). These are mutually exclusive choices, similar to Heroes of the Storm's talent system.
Overwatch 2 Perks Images
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Stadium Mode: A New Competitive Experience
Season 16 (April) introduces Stadium, a 5v5, best-of-7 round-based competitive mode. Players earn and spend currency between rounds to enhance their heroes' attributes and unlock significant alterations (e.g., flying Wraith Form for Reaper). While perks are absent in Stadium initially, future integration isn't ruled out. The mode features a third-person perspective option alongside the traditional first-person view. It launches with 14 heroes, with more to be added.
Overwatch 2 Stadium Screenshots
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Overwatch Classic: The Return of GOATs
Blizzard continues experimenting with 6v6 modes and Overwatch Classic, a throwback mode reviving the "GOATs" meta (three tanks, three supports) from Overwatch 1, arriving mid-Season 16.
New Heroes and Seasonal Events
Freja, a crossbow-wielding bounty hunter, arrives in Season 16, followed by Aqua, a water-bending hero. Seasonal events including April Fools', Summer Games, and Dr. Junkenstein's Halloween event are planned.
Overwatch 2 New Heroes Screenshots
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The Return of Loot Boxes (with Transparency)
Loot boxes are returning, obtainable solely through free methods (battle pass, weekly rewards). Blizzard emphasizes transparency by displaying drop rates before opening.
Competitive Updates: Bans, Voting, and More
Season 15 resets competitive ranks with new rewards (Galactic weapon skins, charms). Season 16 introduces hero bans and map voting to competitive play.
Cosmetics and Collaborations
Numerous new cosmetics are planned, including Mythic skins for Zenyatta (Season 15), Widowmaker, Juno, Mercy, Reaper, and D.Va. A second collaboration with K-pop group LE SSERAFIM is scheduled for March.
Overwatch 2 New Cosmetics
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Competitive Expansion
Overwatch's competitive scene expands with a new stage in China, increased live events, Face.it league integration, and a new tournament system. Teams will receive in-game items for fans, with proceeds benefiting the organizations.
Overwatch 2 Season 15 Screenshots
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