Heroes of the Storm: Beloved Game Mode Returns for Fans

Heroes of the Storm: Brawl Mode Returns!

Heroes of the Storm is bringing back the popular Heroes Brawl game mode, rebranded as "Brawl Mode," introducing unique challenges on dozens of previously unavailable maps after a near five-year hiatus. This exciting update is currently live on the Public Test Realm (PTR) and will officially launch with the next patch, approximately one month from now.

Originally launched in 2016 (as Arena Mode), Heroes Brawl offered weekly rotating challenges with unpredictable gameplay twists. Inspired by Hearthstone's Tavern Brawls, these challenges featured unique map layouts, altered objectives, and unusual rulesets. Examples included all-Nova sniper duels, Arena versions of classic battlefields, and the PvE mission, Escape from Braxis. However, due to the rising popularity of single-lane maps and maintenance challenges, Heroes Brawl was discontinued in 2020, replaced by ARAM (All Random, All Mid).

Now, Brawl Mode makes a triumphant return. The PTR update includes a new iteration of the mode, with bi-weekly rotations (1st and 15th of each month) instead of the original weekly schedule. Players earn a special chest by completing three Brawl matches during its active period. The reward structure (single reward per Brawl or multiple per week) remains to be confirmed. With over two dozen past Heroes Brawls, players can anticipate many favorites returning, along with potential new Brawls in the future.

The initial Brawl Mode, the festive Snow Brawl, is currently playable on the Heroes of the Storm PTR. The mode's official release is expected to coincide with the next patch's launch, likely in early February, considering the PTR version's three-week duration.

This revival is particularly significant as it coincides with the 10-year anniversary of Heroes of the Storm (June 2nd, 2025), making it a celebratory addition for fans. Many players see this as a positive sign, potentially hinting at a larger resurgence for the game.

Heroes of the Storm PTR Patch Notes (January 6, 2025)

The latest Heroes of the Storm patch is now available on the PTR for testing. Please report any bugs encountered on the PTR Bug Report forum.

General:

• Updated Homescreen and Startup Music.
• NEW: Brawl Mode added! Brawls rotate on the 1st and 15th of each month.

(Balance Updates and Bug Fixes – A summary of the extensive hero balance changes and bug fixes detailed in the original notes has been omitted for brevity. The original notes contain this detailed information.)