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 launch and two and a half years after Overwatch 2, Season 15 (February 18th) will redefine the game.

Game director Aaron Keller and the Blizzard team announced sweeping changes, including new collaborations, heroes, and a completely revamped gameplay experience. This overhaul comes as Blizzard aims to reignite player interest amidst competition from titles like NetEase's Marvel Rivals.

Overwatch 2: Hero Perks

Each hero will gain two selectable perks—minor and major—earned at specific levels throughout a match. Minor perks at level two subtly enhance a hero; for example, Orisa's primary fire might refund Heat on critical hits. Major perks, however, significantly alter gameplay. Orisa's Javelin Spin could be replaced with her Barrier, or her Energy Javelin could become chargeable, increasing speed, knockback, and piercing capabilities. These are mutually exclusive choices, similar to Heroes of the Storm's talent system, offering "gameplay-shifting" alterations as described by lead gameplay designer Alec Dawson.

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. Modifications boost attributes like damage or survivability, while traits unlock significant changes—Reaper might fly in Wraith Form. While perks aren't initially included in Stadium, future integration is possible. The mode also features a selectable third-person camera for a broader battlefield view. Launch will include 14 heroes, with more added over time, alongside new maps and modes.

Overwatch Classic: The Return of GOATs

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

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

New Heroes: Freja and Aqua

Season 16 introduces Freja, a crossbow-wielding bounty hunter from Denmark. Concept art for the next hero, Aqua, a water-bending staff wielder, was also revealed.

The Return of Loot Boxes

Loot boxes are returning to Overwatch 2, obtainable through the free battle pass track and weekly rewards. Unlike previous iterations, the odds of obtaining specific items will be visible before opening.

Competitive Updates

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

Cosmetics and Collaborations

Numerous new cosmetics are planned, including a Pixiu-inspired Zenyatta Mythic skin (Season 15), and future Mythic skins for Juno, Mercy, Reaper, and D.Va. A second collaboration with LE SSERAFIM is slated for 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.