Overwatch 2 is undergoing a massive transformation in 2025. While new content is on the horizon, the core gameplay is poised for a seismic shift with the introduction of hero perks. Nearly nine years after the original Overwatch launch, and two and a half years after Overwatch 2's debut, Season 15 (February 18th) will fundamentally alter how the game is played.
Game director Aaron Keller and the Blizzard team have unveiled a wave of changes and updates. From exciting collaborations and new heroes to a completely revamped gameplay experience, Overwatch 2 is set for a significant overhaul. This comes as Blizzard faces increased competition from games like NetEase's Marvel Rivals.
Overwatch 2: The Hero Perk System
Each hero will receive two selectable perks—minor and major—earned at specific levels throughout a match. Minor perks, unlocked at level two, subtly enhance a hero's base abilities (e.g., Orisa's primary fire refunding heat on critical hits). Major perks, however, can dramatically alter a hero's gameplay mid-match (e.g., replacing Orisa's Javelin Spin with her Barrier, or making her Energy Javelin chargeable, faster, and piercing).
These perks are mutually exclusive, forcing players to choose one over the other. This system, reminiscent of *Heroes of the Storm*'s talent trees, unlocks "gameplay-shifting" alterations as the match progresses.
Stadium: A New Round-Based Mode
Season 16 (April) introduces Stadium, a 5v5, best-of-7 round-based competitive mode. Players earn and spend currency between rounds to upgrade their heroes. Modifications boost attributes like damage and survivability, while traits unlock significant hero changes (e.g., Reaper flying in Wraith Form). While perks aren't initially included in Stadium, future integration is possible.
Stadium also features a unique third-person perspective, offering a broader battlefield view. Players can switch between first and third-person cameras. Launch will include 14 heroes, with more to be added alongside new maps and modes.
Overwatch Classic: The Return of GOATs
Blizzard continues experimenting with other modes, including 6v6 and Overwatch Classic. A 6v6 competitive open queue (two tanks per team maximum) is planned. Overwatch Classic, arriving mid-Season 16, revives the "GOATs meta" (three tanks, three supports) from Overwatch 1.
Seasonal events like April Fools', Summer Games, and Dr. Junkenstein's Halloween event are also planned.
New Heroes: Freja and Aqua
Freja, a crossbow-wielding bounty hunter, arrives in Season 16. Concept art for the next hero, Aqua (water-bending staff wielder), has also been revealed.
The Return of Loot Boxes
Loot boxes are making a comeback, but with a twist. They will be entirely free, obtainable through the free battle pass track and weekly rewards. Transparency is key—players will see the odds of receiving specific items before opening a box.
Competitive Updates
Season 15 resets competitive ranks, offering rewards like Galactic weapon skins. Season 16 introduces hero bans and map voting to competitive play.
Cosmetics and Collaborations
A plethora of new cosmetics are coming, including Mythic skins for Zenyatta (Season 15), Widowmaker, Juno, Mercy, Reaper, and D.Va. A second collaboration with LE SSERAFIM is planned for March.
Competitive Expansion
Overwatch's competitive scene is expanding with a new stage in China, more live events, Face.it league integration, and a new tournament system. Teams will receive in-game items for fans, with proceeds benefiting the organizations.
