Everything you need to know about Overwatch 2

On October 4, the long-awaited Overwatch 2, the sequel to the popular online shooter developed by Blizzard, was released on PC and consoles. This exciting game was announced at BlizzCon back in 2019, and its development began even before the release of the original game in early 2015.

Skillbox Media brings you all the latest information about Overwatch 2 – new and exciting features that make it different from the first part, as well as information about the fate of the original game.

We have prepared this information especially for you so that you can experience all the fun and excitement that Overwatch 2 will bring to you.

Overwatch 2 in Early Access

The current version of Overwatch 2 is available for free. Currently, it only offers PvP content, and the PvE mode is not yet available. However, if you’ve played the first installment, you won’t have to start from scratch in the sequel. All your progress, including unlocked cosmetics and achievements tied to your account, will automatically carry over.

Blizzard plans to release the PvE mode in 2023. However, it is unclear whether this will mark the release of the final version or if new content will be added during the early access phase. According to Aaron Keller, the development director, these are just the initial innovations that will be introduced in the game. He emphasized that Overwatch 2 will follow the games-as-a-service model, which is what enabled the shooter to be offered for free.

“Instead of developing content and then waiting until there are enough new features, we decided to release them as they are ready. We will now release updates immediately as part of seasonal content. And this is an important moment for Overwatch: the way we create and release content is changing. Even the way we think about the development of the game has changed. And this, it seems to me, justifies the presence of the number “2” in the title of the sequel,” Keller emphasized.

Speaking of the PvP content available in the game right now, in addition to the familiar modes from the first installment such as “Control,” “Escort,” and “Hybrid,” players will have access to a new mode called “Push.”

In “Push,” each team is tasked with escorting a large robot that pushes a specialized barrier toward the enemy’s base. The team that pushes their robot the farthest wins. The main feature of this mode is the maps, which have a high number of alternate paths. On these arenas, approaching the enemy’s robot can be done from multiple directions, posing a considerable challenge for opponents.

Interestingly, in ranked games, the “Push” mode replaces the “Capture Point” mode.

Overwatch 2 and the Battle Pass

Blizzard has not only made Overwatch 2 free but has also abandoned loot boxes. In their place, a battle pass system is introduced, which is updated every season. Players will have access to two types of battle passes: a paid version and a free version. The number and value of rewards offered will differ between them.

On September 15th, the company revealed the contents of the first battle passes. By completing all levels of the free pass, players will be able to obtain the new hero Kiriko, two epic skins, one weapon charm, two sprays, one Play of the Game animation, and fourteen additional items (emotes, victory poses, player cards, graffiti, profile icons, and more). Players who purchase the premium pass for $10 (equivalent to 1000 in-game coins) will receive a 15% bonus experience, one mythical skin, five legendary skins, two epic skins, four weapon charms, three emotes, three sprays, six victory poses, six player cards, and over thirty additional cosmetic items.

Maps in Overwatch 2

Overwatch 2 greeted players with both locations familiar from the first part and completely new levels, including the Onslaught mode.

New cards:

• Royal Circuit, Monte Carlo (Accompany mode);
• Midtown, New York (Hybrid mode);
• New Queen Street, Toronto (Onslaught mode);
• Colosseum, Rome (Onslaught mode);
• Esperanza, Portugal (Onslaught mode);
• Paraiso, Rio de Janeiro (Hybrid mode).

Old cards:

• King’s Row, London;
• Lijiang Tower, China;
• Oasis, Arabian Desert;
• Highway 66, USA;
• Dorado, Mexico;
• Eichenwald, Germany;
• Ilios, Greece;
• Observation Post: Gibraltar, Rock of Gibraltar.

The maps Temple of Anubis, Volskaya Design Bureau, Hanamura, Horizon Lunar Colony and Paris were not transferred to Overwatch 2 from the original game.

New heroes in Overwatch 2

One of the exciting additions to Overwatch 2 is the inclusion of new fighters, joining the beloved characters from the first game. Let’s meet one of them: Sojourn.

Sojourn

Sojourn, whose real name is Vivian Chase, has an intriguing backstory. She grew up in the vibrant city of Toronto, Canada. As she reached adulthood, her adventurous spirit led her to join the Canadian military, where she willingly underwent cybernetic enhancements and acquired remarkable combat skills. It was her exceptional abilities that caught the attention of Jack Morrison, the renowned Soldier: 76, who personally invited her to join the ranks of Overwatch.

In Overwatch 2, Sojourn takes on the role of a damage class hero. Equipped with a powerful railgun called the Railtron, she becomes a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. Sojourn’s primary objective is to unleash a continuous barrage of devastating attacks upon the enemy team, dealing significant damage and turning the tide of battle in her team’s favor.

With her fascinating background and formidable skills, Sojourn adds a fresh dynamic to the Overwatch 2 experience, promising thrilling gameplay and intense battles. Players can look forward to embracing her playstyle and mastering her abilities as they dive into the action-packed world of Overwatch 2.

Queen of the Vultures

Let’s dive into the world of Overwatch 2 and meet one of its intriguing characters: Odessa Stone, also known as Dez. Dez hails from the gritty town of Junkertown, and her journey is nothing short of remarkable.

As a teenager, Dez and her family faced a harsh turn of events when the city’s new ruler, Mason Haul, banished them to the Wastelands. In this desolate and unforgiving environment, young Dez had to learn to survive against all odds. After thirteen years, a resilient and grown Odessa returned to Junkertown with a burning desire for justice. She sought to overthrow the oppressor who had cast her family aside. And just as Mason had exiled her, she exiled him to the very Wastelands he had condemned her to.

Known as the Queen of Vultures, Dez is a formidable hero in the Tank class. Armed with a shotgun, an axe named Carnage, and a serrated blade, she is ready to initiate combat, empower her allies, and weaken the enemy team. Her primary role is to lead the charge, bolster her teammates, and disrupt the opposing forces.

With her compelling backstory and unique set of abilities, Dez brings depth and excitement to the world of Overwatch 2. Players will have the opportunity to step into her shoes, unleashing her power on the battlefield and making a difference in the fight for justice and redemption.

Kiriko

Let’s explore the world of Overwatch and meet a fascinating character: a ninja healer supported by a Japanese spirit named Kitsune, the nine-tailed fox. Her true name is Kiriko Yamagami, and she hails from Japan, deeply honoring the traditions and martial culture of her homeland. Kiriko’s grandmother taught her ancient healing practices and the connection to the Spirit of the Fox. Meanwhile, her mother, who followed the path of the blade, trained the Shimada brothers and her own daughter in the art of swordsmanship. This led Genji and Hanzo to affectionately refer to Kiriko as their “sweet little niece.”

Kiriko is a Support class hero, armed with traditional Japanese knives called kunai, Shinto paper talismans known as ofuda, and a sacred bell called suzu. Her primary role is to heal and empower her teammates, providing essential support on the battlefield.

Players who have previously purchased the original Overwatch will immediately unlock Kiriko, saving them the effort of leveling up the battle pass to level 55. This way, they can jump right into the action with this intriguing and powerful hero by their side.

In the second season, Blizzard plans to add a new Tank class hero and a new map, details of which are still unknown.

Overwatch 2 PvE Story Mode

The highly anticipated addition to the series comes in the form of a PvE mode, which promises to bring a whole new level of depth and immersion to the Overwatch experience. While specific details about the mode are still limited, one thing is certain: it will be a journey infused with the essence of humanity.

In these narrative-driven missions, players will be tasked with banding together as a team of four to confront the menacing Null Sector organization. These missions will take them across diverse locales, from bustling cities under siege to remote outposts teeming with danger. The heroes of Overwatch will stand as the last line of defense, striving to protect innocent lives from the relentless onslaught of robotic forces.

But it’s not just about the battles and the action. The PvE mode aims to delve deeper into the personal stories and struggles of each hero, offering glimpses into their lives beyond the battlefield. As players progress through the missions, they will uncover hidden layers of their favorite characters, witnessing their growth, fears, and triumphs. The bonds forged between teammates will be tested, as they rely on each other’s strengths and work together to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Moreover, the introduction of the talent system adds a fascinating dimension to the heroes’ development. As players embark on their journey, they will have the opportunity to unlock and enhance unique abilities, allowing for a more personalized playstyle. This progression system not only adds depth to the gameplay but also serves as a reflection of the heroes’ own personal growth and evolution.

The PvE mode is a testament to the dedication of the Overwatch team in crafting a world that is not only filled with thrilling gameplay but also resonates with the human spirit. It is an invitation to explore the intricate tapestry of emotions, relationships, and heroism that lies at the heart of Overwatch, reminding us all of the enduring power of compassion, unity, and the indomitable human will.

“The PvE mode in Overwatch 2 is a AAA-quality story campaign… that will help us explore the history of the world and add… replay value through the system of developing hero talents,” Keller explained.

In 2021, Blizzard clarified that, in addition to the main story missions, the PvE mode will also include heroic ones – this is a kind of analogue of side quests that allows you to effectively level up your characters.

As for maps for PvE mode, little is known about them. According to the developers, the story campaign will take place in gigantic locations, at least twice the size of classic maps from Overwatch.

The fate of the original Overwatch after the release of the second part

Overwatch was available to players until October 2nd. The announcement about the discontinuation of the first installment was made by John Spector, the Chief Commercial Officer of Activision Blizzard, during a roundtable conference.

Approximately a day before the launch of Overwatch 2, we will be shutting down the servers for the original Overwatch. Therefore, October 2nd will indeed be the last day to log in and enjoy the original game. We will then take a 27-hour break to prepare the servers for Overwatch 2, explained Spector.