Overwatch 2 is undergoing a major transformation in 2025. While new content is on the horizon, the core gameplay is experiencing a significant shift with the introduction of hero perks. Almost nine years after the original Overwatch's release, and two and a half years after Overwatch 2's launch, Season 15 (starting February 18th) will revolutionize gameplay.

Game director Aaron Keller and the Blizzard team revealed numerous updates, including new collaborations, heroes, and a completely revamped gameplay experience. These changes aim to revitalize Overwatch 2, especially considering competition from titles like NetEase's Marvel Rivals.

Hero Perks: A Gameplay Revolution

Each hero will receive two selectable perks—minor and major—at specific in-match levels. Minor perks offer subtle upgrades (e.g., Orisa's primary fire heat refund on critical hits), while major perks drastically alter gameplay (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 (anticipated for April) introduces Stadium mode, a 5v5, best-of-7 round-based competitive mode. Players earn and spend in-game currency between rounds to enhance their heroes' attributes and unlock significant gameplay changes (e.g., flying Wraith Form for Reaper). While perks aren't initially included, future integration isn't ruled out. Stadium features a unique third-person perspective option, alongside a launch roster of 14 heroes, with more to come.

Overwatch 2 Stadium Screenshots

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Overwatch Classic and 6v6: Returning Formats

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

New Heroes: Freja and Aqua

Freja, a crossbow-wielding bounty hunter, joins the roster 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, but exclusively through free means like the battle pass and weekly rewards. Blizzard is emphasizing transparency by displaying drop rates before opening.

Competitive Updates: Bans, Voting, and More

Season 15 resets competitive ranks, offering new rewards like Galactic weapon skins. Season 16 introduces hero bans and map voting to competitive play.

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 confirmed for March.

Overwatch 2 New Cosmetics

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Competitive Expansion

Overwatch's competitive scene is expanding with a new stage in China, increased live events, Face.it league integration, a new tournament system, and in-game team items.