Blizzard Reveals Radical Overhaul of Overwatch 2, Including Return of Loot Boxes, Perks, and Third-Person Mode

Overwatch 2 is undergoing a major transformation in 2025. While new content is on the horizon, the core gameplay is receiving a seismic shift with the introduction of hero perks. Nearly nine years after the original Overwatch debuted, and two and a half years after Overwatch 2 launched, Season 15 (February 18th) will fundamentally alter how the game is played.

Game director Aaron Keller and the Blizzard team announced sweeping changes, including new collaborations, heroes, and a completely revamped gameplay experience. These changes aim to revitalize Overwatch 2 amidst stiff competition from games like NetEase's Marvel Rivals.

Overwatch 2 is Adding Hero Perks

Each hero will gain two selectable perks—minor and major—earned at specific points during a match. Minor perks (unlocked at level two) subtly enhance base abilities; for example, Orisa's primary fire might refund Heat on critical hits. Major perks drastically alter gameplay, potentially replacing abilities entirely. Orisa's Javelin Spin could be replaced with her Barrier, or her Energy Javelin could become chargeable, gaining speed, knockback, and piercing capabilities. These impactful choices, reminiscent of *Heroes of the Storm*'s talent system, are mutually exclusive.

Overwatch 2 Perks

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 enhance heroes, boosting attributes or unlocking significant ability changes (e.g., Reaper flying in Wraith Form). While perks aren't initially included in Stadium, future integration is possible. The mode also features a unique third-person perspective, offering a different view of the battlefield and modifications. Stadium launches with 14 heroes, with more to come alongside additional maps and modes.

Overwatch 2 Stadium Screenshots

GOATs Returns to Overwatch Classic

Blizzard continues experimenting with 6v6 and Overwatch Classic modes. A 6v6 competitive open queue (two tanks maximum per team) is planned, while Overwatch Classic will revive the "GOATs meta" (three tanks, three supports) from Overwatch 1, mid-Season 16.

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

Freja and Aqua: New Heroes

Season 16 introduces Freja, a crossbow-wielding bounty hunter, followed by Aqua, a water-bending hero, later in the year.

Overwatch 2 New Heroes Screenshots

The Return of Loot Boxes

Loot boxes are making a comeback, but only obtainable through free means like the battle pass and weekly rewards. Transparency is key; players will see drop rates before opening.

Competitive Updates

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

Overwatch 2 Season 15 Screenshots

Cosmetics and Collaborations

Numerous new cosmetics are planned, including Mythic skins for Zenyatta (Season 15), Widowmaker, Juno, Mercy, Reaper, and D.Va. A second collaboration with LE SSERAFIM is also in the works for March.

Overwatch 2 New Cosmetics

Expanding Competitive Landscape

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.