In a significant turn of events for the hero shooter genre, Overwatch 2 faces a formidable challenger in the form of Marvel Rivals, which has quickly garnered attention since its release last December. This surge in competition has piqued the interest of Overwatch enthusiasts, prompting many to wonder how Blizzard Entertainment would respond to the rising threat.
During a recent Overwatch 2 Spotlight presentation, it became apparent that Blizzard is determined to reclaim its place in the gaming arena. The 34-minute showcase introduced a variety of exciting updates, including an innovative perk system designed to allow players greater customization of their hero abilities. Furthermore, a new third-person Stadium game mode was unveiled, enhancing the gameplay experience. However, the most tantalizing features appearing in this update seem to align closely with the beloved elements from the original Overwatch released in 2016.
Season 15 Update: Exciting Features for OW1 Loyalists
The Return of Loot Boxes in Overwatch 2 Season 15
Once a hot topic for debate in the gaming community, loot boxes have evolved over the years, often regarded as a form of gambling that triggered heightened regulation across various countries. Despite their controversial past, these virtual crates provided players with randomized assortments of in-game items, allowing for a blend of luck and strategy.
When Overwatch 2 launched in 2022, Blizzard chose to eliminate loot boxes altogether, a move that disappointed many longtime fans. Initially, players could only acquire skins through a premium battle pass or direct purchases, which contrasted sharply with the free earning potential provided in the original Overwatch through loot boxes and leveling up.
Fans voiced their desire for a return to loot boxes, and it seems their pleas have been heard. The announcement in the Overwatch 2 Spotlight confirmed that starting with Season 15, players will have access to loot boxes via the free tier of the battle pass and as part of weekly rewards. In an added incentive, players will be guaranteed to receive a legendary skin for every 20 loot boxes opened.
Mark your calendars: Overwatch 2 Season 15 is set to launch on February 18.
Embracing the Return to OW Classic and 6v6 Gameplay
To cater to nostalgia and seasoned veterans, Blizzard has been hosting playtests that reintroduce a 6v6 gameplay format reminiscent of the original Overwatch. This approach has successfully lured former players back into the fold, and the recent Overwatch 2 Spotlight highlighted Blizzard’s commitment to this direction. A dedicated Competitive queue for 6v6 matches will be available during the mid-season update of Season 15, complete with a cap of two tanks per team.
In a nod to the roots of Overwatch, a new game mode titled “Overwatch Classic”is also making its debut. This mode pays homage to the famous GOATS meta, where teams comprised three support characters and three tanks, a strategy that achieved notoriety during the 2019 season. This classic meta will be reinstated in Overwatch 2’s mid-season update of Season 15.
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