Overwatch 2 is undergoing a major transformation in 2025. While new content is expected, the core gameplay will be significantly altered with the introduction of hero perks. Nearly nine years after the original Overwatch's release, and two and a half years after Overwatch 2's launch, Season 15 (February 18th) will introduce this game-changing mechanic.
Game director Aaron Keller and the Blizzard team announced sweeping changes, including new collaborations, heroes, and a completely revamped gameplay experience. This overhaul aims to revitalize Overwatch 2's appeal amidst competition from titles like NetEase's Marvel Rivals.
Hero Perks: A Gameplay Revolution
Each hero will gain two selectable perks – minor and major – unlocked at specific levels during a match. Minor perks subtly enhance a hero's abilities (e.g., Orisa's primary fire refunding heat on critical hits). Major perks, however, can drastically alter a hero's gameplay (e.g., replacing Orisa's Javelin Spin with her Barrier). These are mutually exclusive choices, similar to talent trees in Heroes of the Storm.
Overwatch 2 Perks Images
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Stadium Mode: A New Competitive Experience
Season 16 (April) introduces Stadium mode, a 5v5, best-of-7 round-based competitive mode. Players earn and spend currency between rounds to upgrade their heroes' attributes and unlock significant gameplay alterations (e.g., Reaper flying in Wraith Form). While perks aren't initially included, future integration is possible. Stadium features a third-person camera option alongside the standard 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 is experimenting with 6v6 modes and Overwatch Classic, a throwback mode reviving the three-tank, three-support "GOATs Meta" 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 like April Fools', Summer Games, and Junkenstein's Revenge are planned.
The Return of Loot Boxes (with Transparency)
Loot boxes are returning, but only obtainable through free means like the battle pass and weekly rewards. Blizzard is emphasizing transparency by displaying drop rates before opening.
Competitive Updates: Bans, Voting, and More
Season 15 resets competitive ranks, offering new rewards. Season 16 introduces hero bans and map voting to competitive play.
Overwatch 2 Season 15 Screenshots
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Cosmetics and Collaborations
Numerous new cosmetics are planned, including Mythic skins for Zenyatta, Widowmaker, Juno, Mercy, Reaper, and D.Va. A second collaboration with LE SSERAFIM is also scheduled for March.
Overwatch 2 New Cosmetics
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Competitive Expansion
Overwatch 2'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.
