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, exceeding typical content updates with a fundamental gameplay shift: the introduction of hero perks. Nearly nine years after the original Overwatch debut and two and a half years after Overwatch 2's launch, Season 15 (February 18th) will redefine the game.

Game director Aaron Keller and the Blizzard team have announced sweeping changes, including new collaborations, heroes, and a completely revamped gameplay experience. This overhaul aims to revitalize Overwatch 2 amidst stiff competition, particularly from NetEase's Marvel Rivals.

Overwatch 2: Hero Perks

Each hero will gain two selectable perks—minor and major—earned through level progression during matches. Minor perks, unlocked at level two, subtly enhance base abilities (e.g., Orisa's primary fire refunding heat on critical hits). Major perks significantly alter gameplay, potentially replacing abilities (e.g., replacing Orisa's Javelin Spin with her Barrier). These perks are mutually exclusive, offering strategic choices similar to Heroes of the Storm's talent system.

Stadium: A New Round-Based Mode

Season 16 (April) introduces Stadium, a 5v5, best-of-7 round-based competitive mode. Between rounds, players use earned currency to upgrade heroes with attributes (survivability, damage) and traits (e.g., flying Wraith Form for Reaper). While perks aren't initially included, future integration is possible. Stadium also features a unique third-person perspective option, allowing for tactical battlefield viewing. It launches with 14 heroes, with more to come.

Overwatch Classic: The Return of GOATs

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

New Heroes: Freja and Aqua

Season 16 will introduce Freja, a crossbow-wielding bounty hunter. Concept art for the next hero, Aqua, a water-bending staff wielder, has also been revealed.

The Return of Loot Boxes

Loot boxes are returning, but exclusively through free means (battle pass, weekly rewards). Transparency is key; players will see drop rates before opening.

Competitive Updates

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

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 coming in March.

Competitive Expansion

Overwatch 2's competitive scene expands with a new stage in China, increased live events, Face.it league integration, and a new tournament system. Teams will receive in-game items for fans, with proceeds benefiting the organizations.