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, core gameplay will be significantly altered with the introduction of hero perks. Nearly nine years after the original Overwatch launch, and two and a half years after Overwatch 2, 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 revolutionary new game mode. These updates aim to revitalize Overwatch 2 amidst competition from titles like Marvel Rivals.

Hero Perks: A Gameplay Revolution

Each hero will receive two selectable perks – minor and major – unlocked at specific points during a match. Minor perks offer subtle upgrades (e.g., Orisa's primary fire refunding heat 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.

Overwatch 2 Perks Images

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 enhance their heroes, modifying attributes or unlocking significant 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 traditional first-person view. It will launch with 14 heroes, expanding over time.

Overwatch 2 Stadium Screenshots

Overwatch Classic and 6v6 Updates

Blizzard continues experimenting with 6v6 modes, including a competitive open queue with a two-tank limit. Overwatch Classic, arriving mid-Season 16, will revive the "GOATs meta" from Overwatch 1, featuring three tanks and three supports.

New Heroes and Seasonal Events

Freja, a crossbow-wielding bounty hunter, joins the roster in Season 16, followed by Aqua, a water-bending hero. Seasonal events, including April Fools', Summer Games, and Dr. Junkenstein's Halloween, are planned.

Overwatch 2 New Heroes Screenshots

The Return of Loot Boxes (with Transparency)

Loot boxes are returning, but exclusively through free means like the battle pass and weekly rewards. Blizzard emphasizes transparency, displaying drop rates before opening.

Competitive Enhancements

Season 15 resets competitive ranks, introducing Galactic weapon skins and charms. Season 16 adds hero bans and map voting to competitive play.

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 set for March.

Overwatch 2 New Cosmetics

Competitive Expansion

Overwatch's competitive scene expands with a new stage in China, increased live events, Face.it league integration, a new tournament system, and in-game team items.