Why Blizzard Is Overhauling Overwatch 2 To Be More “Generous”
It’s been a rocky 18 months for the Overwatch 2 team. After releasing back in 2022 to positive-yet-underwhelming reviews, scrapping the game’s once-promised PvE hero mode, and, more recently, undergoing large-scale layoffs that hit core members like former lead narrative designer Gavin Jurgens-Fyhrie, there’s been a bit of uncertainty in regards to what’s next for the team-based shooter. However, the studio’s next steps might just help get things back on track.
Since release, players have been vocal about their grievances with Overwatch 2’s pricing. Though the game itself is free-to-play–and its new heroes attainable through the free battle pass, so long as you sink some serious time into leveling it up–there has been criticism of the series’ pivot to a battle-pass system, the high price of cosmetics, and the low distribution of coins. According to Overwatch 2 game director Aaron Keller, much of this is changing very soon.
Starting in mid-April when Season 10 kicks off, all Overwatch heroes will be free-to-play upon release. Coins will be given more generously and tied to the game’s free battle pass rather than its challenges, and a new store, the Mythic shop, will offer players a great deal of choice in what they work towards unlocking each season. In addition, players can now earn battle passes, as every two seasons there will be enough coins given through the game’s free battle pass to purchase the premium version. Keller says the team will focus more on reworking maps going forward, as well as introducing modes and systems that can improve the game’s PvP elements. In short, there’s a lot to be (tentatively) excited about.