Overwatch 2 Unleashes Comprehensive Update: Loot Boxes, Perks, and Third-Person Mode Return

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 announced extensive updates, including new collaborations, heroes, and a completely revamped game mode. 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 – unlocked at specific in-match levels. Minor perks subtly enhance base 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.

Overwatch 2 Perks Images

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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 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 features a third-person perspective option alongside the traditional first-person view. It launches with 14 heroes, with more planned for the future.

Overwatch 2 Stadium Screenshots

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Overwatch Classic: The Return of GOATs

Blizzard continues experimenting with 6v6 and Overwatch Classic modes. A 6v6 competitive open queue (two tanks per team) is planned, while Overwatch Classic will reintroduce the three-tank, three-support "GOATs" meta from Overwatch 1.

Seasonal events, including April Fools', Summer Games, and Dr. Junkenstein's Halloween, are also planned.

New Heroes: Freja and Aqua

Freja, a crossbow-wielding bounty hunter, arrives in Season 16. Concept art for Aqua, a water-bending hero, was also revealed.

Overwatch 2 New Heroes Screenshots

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The Return of Loot Boxes (with Transparency)

Loot boxes are returning, obtainable through free battle pass tracks and weekly rewards, with transparent drop rates.

Competitive Updates: Bans, Voting, and More

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

Overwatch 2 Season 15 Screenshots

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Cosmetics and Collaborations

Numerous new cosmetics are planned, including Mythic skins for Zenyatta, Widowmaker, Juno, Mercy, Reaper, and D.Va. A second collaboration with LE SSERAFIM is also scheduled for March.

Overwatch 2 New Cosmetics

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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.