Overwatch 2 Introduces In-Match Perks – Marking the Largest Gameplay Innovation Since Its 2016 Launch

Exciting Changes Coming to Overwatch 2 in Season 15

Blizzard Entertainment has revealed several significant updates for Overwatch 2 as we approach Season 15, set to commence on Tuesday, February 18. Among the most notable innovations is the introduction of in-match Perks, which Blizzard describes as the most groundbreaking gameplay enhancement since the franchise’s inception.

Introducing In-Match Perks

The new Perks system allows players to level up twice during a match, offering hero-specific bonuses that aim to deepen strategic gameplay. Upon achieving the first level up, players will choose from two minor Perks tailored to their hero. For instance, Torbjorn can select between:

Craftsman: Restores armor health to allies with his Forge Hammer and enhances turret repair healing by 25%.
Fully Loaded: Completely refills the Rivet Gun’s ammunition when Overload is activated.

Another example features Lucio, whose Bass Blowout Perk amplifies the knockback effect of his Soundwave ability.

Upon reaching the second level up, players can select from two major Perks. With Torbjorn, the choices expand to:

Anchor Bolts: Increases the throw range of Deploy Turret by 50% and allows it to be mounted on walls and ceilings.
Level 3 Turret: Temporarily boosts the turret to Level 3 for five seconds when Overload is activated.

For Reaper, the Dire Triggers Perk provides a mid-range damage boost from his Secondary Fire, ideal for finishing off fleeing opponents. Blizzard noted that the Perks concept was conceived in early 2024 and refined over six months, focusing heavily on player choice to enhance the final product.

Highlighted Perks to Look Forward To

The Overwatch team highlighted several additional Perks that fans are sure to appreciate:

Winston’s Chain Lightning: Charged Secondary Fire can hit multiple opponents.
Hanzo’s Scatter Arrows: Aiming for impactful multi-kills.
Baptiste’s Shoulder Turret: Deploys extra Automated Healing while using Amplification Matrix.
Ramattra’s Vengeful Vortex: Allows players to detonate Ravenous Vortex mid-air, sending flying enemies crashing down.

These exciting in-match Perks will be integrated into both Competitive and Quick Play modes.

Competitive Season and New Rewards

Season 15 marks the start of the competitive cycle for Overwatch 2, complete with a Ranked reset and the introduction of new competitive Galactic Weapon skins, weapon charms, and player portraits. Players can eagerly participate in the 6v6 Competitive queue and experience Overwatch Classic: GOATS.

Moreover, the beloved Loot Boxes are returning as part of weekly event rewards, alongside the opportunity to earn Legendary Loot Boxes in both the Free and Premium Battle Passes.

Transparency in Loot Box Drop Rates

In a bid to maintain transparency, Blizzard has shared the official drop rates for Loot Boxes:

Loot Boxes	Legendary Loot Boxes
Legendary – 5.10%	Legendary – 100%
Epic – 21.93%	Epic – 21.93%
Rare – 96.26%	Rare – 96.26%
Common – 97.97%	Common – 97.97%

Blizzard guarantees that every Loot Box will include at least one Rare or better item. Furthermore, players can expect an Epic item within five consecutive boxes and a Legendary item within twenty.

What to Expect in Season 16

Blizzard has also teased exciting features slated for Season 16, including the all-new Stadium game mode. This mode offers players a fresh perspective with a third-person camera option, promoting a slower yet more immersive gameplay experience. Players can engage in 5v5 battles in a best-of-7 format, utilizing in-game currency to purchase and tailor their abilities.

Stadium introduces a new ranked mode, supporting different divisions and exclusive rewards. The mode will initially feature 14 core heroes, with plans for additional heroes, maps, and gameplay modes to follow.

New Hero and Future Additions

Season 16 will also introduce a brand new hero named Freya, a former search-and-rescue operative turned bounty hunter equipped with an explosive crossbow and unique capabilities such as Take Aim, Quick Dash, and Bola Shot. Players can get a sneak peek of Freya during a free trial weekend later in Season 15.

Additionally, Blizzard hinted at another character known by the codename Aqua, a water-based hero set to debut in Season 18. More features such as Hero Bans in Competitive Mode and a new Map Voting system are also on the horizon.

Conclusion

Overall, it is evident that Blizzard is committed to revitalizing Overwatch 2 with these promising updates and new content. The community will undoubtedly be eager to see if these enhancements can rekindle interest in the beloved franchise.

Source & Images