New Info on Overwatch 2; PvP Changes, New Maps and Skills
During the panel dedicated to Overwatch 2 we learned a lot of new information about Blizzard's upcoming game. Two maps were shown, new passive hero skills and changes in game modes were revealed.
- Overwatch 2 did not make an appearance during BlizzCon's opening ceremony. However, a separate panel was dedicated to the game;
- We learned about the changes that will be introduced in PvE and PvP modes;
- An open beta is also planned before the full release.
Despite the absence of Overwatch 2 during the broadcast of the opening ceremony of BlizzCon 2021, Blizzard devoted a lot of time to the game later, on a special panel, during which we learned a few new things about the upcoming online shooter game.
The most important information - the release date or at least the release window - was not provided. Instead, new images of Widowmaker, Pharah, McCree, and Reaper were revealed, along with two maps - Rome and New York. Overwatch 2 will receive visual improvements and new effects that will affect the gameplay. The footage showed a snowstorm and a sandstorm.
The presentation was divided into several segments. PvE mode will get new opponents, whose appearance and movements were revealed in the video above. Each character will receive additional special abilities. In the example of Soldier 76, a force field was shown moving along with him, dealing damage to enemies. There will also be special hero missions that enable us to increase the level of their skills. A progression tree was also presented.
Some changes will be made to the PvP mode. Tanks will receive a small boost in terms of offensive capabilities. Healing classes will become more independent after the changes. Passive skills for each hero have been revealed. They will have a significant impact on the gameplay, so Blizzard will face the serious task of balancing the game properly.
There is a good chance that Overwatch 2 will receive an open beta before the full release. This was said by the game director Jeff Kaplan in an interview for IGN. The plans are not yet 100% confirmed, but Kaplan remains optimistic about the idea. He wants the players to be able to see for themselves how all the changes and innovations planned for the game work out.
