Blizzard Reveals Radical Overhaul of Overwatch 2, Including Return of Loot Boxes, Perks, and Third-Person Mode

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 amidst competition from titles like NetEase's Marvel Rivals.

Hero Perks: A Gameplay Shift

Each hero will receive two selectable perks—minor and major—at specific in-match levels. Minor perks (level 2) subtly enhance existing abilities (e.g., Orisa's primary fire heat refund on critical hits). 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. These "gameplay-shifting" alterations unlock progressively throughout a match.

Overwatch 2 Perks Images

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Stadium Mode: A New Round-Based 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, boosting attributes or unlocking significant ability changes (e.g., flying Wraith Form for Reaper). While perks aren't initially included, future integration is possible. Stadium features a third-person camera option alongside the traditional first-person view. Initially, 14 heroes will be available, with more added over time.

Overwatch 2 Stadium Screenshots

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Overwatch Classic and 6v6 Competitive Open Queue

Blizzard continues experimenting with 6v6 and Overwatch Classic modes. A 6v6 competitive open queue (max two tanks per team) is planned. Overwatch Classic will revive the "GOATs Meta" (three tanks, three supports) from Overwatch 1.

Seasonal events (April Fools', Summer Games, Dr. Junkenstein's Halloween) are also planned.

New Heroes: Freja and Aqua

Freja, a crossbow-wielding bounty hunter, arrives in Season 16. Concept art for Aqua, a water-bending hero, was also revealed.

Overwatch 2 New Heroes Screenshots

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The Return of Loot Boxes (with Transparency)

Loot boxes are returning, obtainable through free battle pass tracks and weekly rewards. Transparency regarding drop rates will be provided before opening.

Competitive Updates: Hero Bans, Map Voting, and More

Season 15 resets competitive ranks, offering rewards like Galactic weapon skins. Season 16 introduces hero bans and map voting. Competitive expansion includes a new China stage, Face.it league integration, and a new tournament system.

Overwatch 2 Season 15 Screenshots

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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 LE SSERAFIM is scheduled for March.

Overwatch 2 New Cosmetics

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Competitive Expansion

Overwatch's competitive scene expands with a new China stage, increased live events, Face.it integration, and a new tournament system. Teams will receive in-game items for fans, with proceeds benefiting the organizations.