Overwatch is a critically acclaimed team-based shooter. Blizzard Entertainment’s new IP quickly captured people’s hearts. However, the planned sequel fell prey to development hell. The studio of Activation-Blizzard treads dangerous waters. Consequently, the game’s state has become stagnant. Most resources funneled to Overwatch 2. Years passed with minimal updates. Then, the arrival of summer heralded a breakthrough for news. Finally, the Overwatch 2 reveal is here.
Long Live the Queen
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A long-teased hero leads the celebration. Junker Queen is Overwatch 2’s latest hero. Previously, she was mentioned within the lore and backstory of Junkrat and Roadhog. This week Blizzard dove into her story and kit.
Odessa “Dez” Stone (Junker Queen) grew up a survivor. The Junker King exiled Odessa and her family. She fought tooth and nail to survive in the wasteland. One day, she returned for vengeance and to change the kingdom of Junkertown forever.
Beta and Roadmap Revealed
The Overwatch 2 reveal shows an upcoming beta. Fans can opt-in for a chance to participate in the beta taking place from June 28-July 14. There, Junker Queen and a new map will be playable. Beta access will be available for consoles (including crossplay). This is a new addition. Currently, the Overwatch League showcases Overwatch 2. Spectators will note the biggest change from 6v6 to 5v5.
#Overwatch2 Beta sign up is Now Live.
📆 OW2 Beta begins June 28
🎮 PC & Console
👑 Junker Queen & a New Map
✋ Beta Opt-in https://t.co/NI3CMA17PV pic.twitter.com/Jyy1lZMOm9— Overwatch (@PlayOverwatch) June 16, 2022
This team composition change significantly shifts the meta. Maps have even been slightly retooled for Overwatch 2 to function with slightly smaller teams. Additionally, Junker Queen may shake up the meta more than Sojourn did.
Roadmap and Battle Pass
Blizzard also showcased their plans for the first few seasons. October 4th will launch season one. This includes new heroes, skins, maps, and other cosmetics in the Battle Pass. Subsequently, every season will follow suit. Currently, the seasons are spaced by nine weeks. This announcement heralds the push into a free-to-play model for PvP.
The Overwatch 2 reveal embraces this new model with additional ways for players to express themselves. New charms can be acquired for heroes’ weapons and banners to show off in-game. Additionally, “mythic” skins will be introduced to the game. This higher-tier cosmetic includes pieces that can be swapped and customized, unlike Legendary skins.
Lastly, Loot Boxes are no more. Consequently, every cosmetic lies within the in-game store, earning items, or the Battle Pass. This is a big deal. Many countries have outlawed loot box practices. Additionally, this system has never felt player-friendly.
First look at all-new cosmetics coming to #Overwatch2 on October 4.
Check out an all-new tier of hero skins✨Mythic✨
👀Mythic Genji – Cyber Demon pic.twitter.com/yuqkwEoDvd
— Overwatch (@PlayOverwatch) June 16, 2022
Crossplatform Progression
The Overwatch 2 reveal also highlighted a new key feature. Progress will carry over regardless of the platform. This includes heroes unlocked, rankings, and cosmetics. Nothing will be lost. Consequently, a huge win for players.
Next, competitive play is getting adjusted. Rankings judge performance and role-specific objectives. Likewise, earning ranks will be more meaningful.
PvP and PvE
Overwatch 2 launches its PvP on October 4. PvE is will be in 2023. The story will tie up loose ends and have many layers. Null Sector will return as an opposing force to team Overwatch. However, only PvP is free. PvE is sold as a separate product.
This is subject to change. Yet, these staggered releases are becoming more commonplace. Halo Infinite released its free-to-play PvP and then charged for the campaign. Chiefly, this will get Overwatch 2 into the hands of fans faster. Hopefully, Blizzard will achieve the live-service rhythm better than 343. The full reveal stream is here followed by the blogpost. Are you excited about the beta? Let us know in the comments down below. Lastly, for all things Overwatch 2: bend the knee in the realm of Lords of Gaming.
