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 release and two and a half years after Overwatch 2's launch, Season 15 (February 18th) will revolutionize gameplay with the addition of perks. Game director Aaron Keller and the Blizzard team unveiled 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 levels during matches. Minor perks (unlocked at level two) subtly enhance a hero's abilities (e.g., Orisa's primary fire heat refund on critical hits). Major perks dramatically alter gameplay, potentially replacing abilities (e.g., replacing Orisa's Javelin Spin with her Barrier). These are mutually exclusive choices, similar to Heroes of the Storm's talent system.

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, enhancing attributes or unlocking significant ability changes (e.g., flying Wraith Form for Reaper). While perks aren't initially included, future integration is possible. Stadium also features a selectable third-person perspective. The mode will launch with 14 heroes, expanding over time.

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. Seasonal events like April Fools', Summer Games, and Junkenstein's Revenge will also return.

New Heroes and Cosmetics

Freja, a crossbow-wielding bounty hunter, debuts in Season 16, followed by Aqua, a water-bending hero.

The return of loot boxes is confirmed, obtainable only through free methods (battle pass, weekly rewards). Transparency regarding drop rates will be implemented.

Competitive Updates

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

Cosmetics

Numerous new cosmetics are planned, including a Pixiu-inspired Zenyatta Mythic skin (Season 15), a Widowmaker Mythic weapon skin, and future Mythic skins for Juno, Mercy, Reaper, and D.Va. A second collaboration with LE SSERAFIM is also scheduled for March.

Competitive Expansion

Overwatch 2'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.