Overwatch 2 is undergoing a major transformation in 2025. While new content is expected, significant gameplay changes are on the horizon, most notably the introduction of hero perks.
Nearly nine years after the original Overwatch's debut and two and a half years after Overwatch 2's launch, Season 15 (February 18th) will revolutionize gameplay with the addition of these perks.
Game director Aaron Keller and the Blizzard team announced numerous updates, including new collaborations, heroes, and a completely revamped gameplay experience. These changes aim to revitalize Overwatch 2's appeal, especially in light of competition from games like NetEase's Marvel Rivals.
Hero Perks in Overwatch 2
Each hero will have two selectable perks – minor and major – unlocked at specific points during a match. Minor perks (level 2) offer subtle upgrades; for example, Orisa's primary fire might refund Heat on critical hits. Major perks drastically alter gameplay; Orisa's Javelin Spin could be replaced with her Barrier, or her Energy Javelin could become chargeable, faster, and pierce enemies. These are mutually exclusive choices, similar to Heroes of the Storm's talent system.
Overwatch 2 Perks Images
Stadium: A New Round-Based Mode
Season 16 (April) introduces Stadium mode, a 5v5, best-of-7 competitive mode. Players earn and spend currency between rounds to upgrade heroes, enhancing attributes like damage or survivability, or unlocking significant alterations (e.g., Reaper flying in Wraith Form). While perks aren't initially included in Stadium, future integration is possible. The mode also features a third-person perspective option. Initially, 14 heroes will be available, with more added later.
Overwatch 2 Stadium Screenshots
Overwatch Classic and 6v6 Updates
Blizzard continues experimenting with 6v6 and Overwatch Classic modes. A 6v6 competitive open queue (max two tanks per team) is planned, and Overwatch Classic will revive the "GOATs Meta" (three tanks, three supports) from Overwatch 1.
New Heroes: Freja and Aqua
Freja, a crossbow-wielding bounty hunter, arrives in Season 16. Concept art for the next hero, Aqua, who wields a water-bending staff, was also revealed.
The Return of Loot Boxes
Loot boxes are returning, but only obtainable through free means (battle pass, weekly rewards). Transparency is key; players will see the odds and potential contents before opening.
Competitive Updates
Season 15 resets competitive ranks, offering rewards like Galactic weapon skins. Season 16 introduces hero bans and map voting.
Overwatch 2 Season 15 Screenshots
Cosmetics and Collaborations
Numerous new cosmetics are planned, including a Pixiu-inspired Zenyatta Mythic skin (Season 15), and future Mythic skins for Juno, Mercy, Reaper, and D.Va. A second collaboration with LE SSERAFIM is also in the works.
Overwatch 2 New Cosmetics Images
Competitive Expansion
Overwatch 2's competitive scene expands with a new stage in China, more live events, Face.it league integration, a new tournament system, and in-game team items.
