Blizzard provided a first look atOverwatch 2back at Blizzcon in 2019, but the developer has been largely mum on the title since. Despite that radio silence, a recent tweet from a trusted leaker suggests that the game may be coming sooner than players would expect, though likely not as fast as they would hope.
Upon its official launch in 2016,Overwatchwas hailed as a critical and financial success, and has since established itself as a major player in the realm of esports. Frequent content updates and competitive balance tweaks, including those that extensively change characters' abilities—such as Moira’s recent, controversial re-works—have kept the game fresh. But after four years, the title is starting to show its age, and fans are eager for a more substantial shakeup to the game’s core formula.
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When Gamescom came and went without any new information or footage from Blizzard, Metro, an established source of leaks in theOverwatchcommunity, took to Twitter with an update. Metro, who originally gained credibility thanks to his accurate leaks aboutOverwatch 2, reported the sequel will likely be shown off at Blizzcon 2021, which is going virtual next year followingthe cancellation of Blizzcon 2020 due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Additionally, Metro stated that the game reveal would likely be accompanied by a beta, if not a full release.
A beta announcement seems most likely, given that the originalOverwatchhad numerous public betasprior to its official release. Blizzard also has a long-established reputation for taking their time with major releases, and building hype for cornerstone titles. But now that theOverwatch’s core gameplay and competitive framework are well-established, the idea of a surprise launch is at least within the realm of possibility.
Save for a few new mechanical features, like dynamic talent trees to customize character abilities, and some visual tweaks to established heroes, much ofOverwatch 2’s offerings are shrouded in mystery. The most important change coming to the franchise is undoubtedly the sequel’s emphasis on PVE missions, including a full narrative-driven campaign that will develop the world’s lore. While most fans are eager, some members of the community are nervous about the sequel’s storytellingafter another importantOverwatchwriter departed from Blizzard.
Hopefully, Metro’s leak proves accurate, asBlizzard has confirmed Echo is the final addition toOverwatch’s rosterof heroes. While theOverwatchcompetitive scene is still fierce and lively, more casual players may lose interest without any new maps, modes, or characters to look forward to. As it stands, most of the game’s mechanical variety currently relies on the creativity of the community via the game’s Workshop mode.
Overwatch2is currently in development. An official release date has yet to be announced.
