Blizzard is shaking up Overwatch 2’s launch plan in order that it could possibly launch new stuff sooner. Introduced in 2019, the sequel was initially going to launch with revamped PvP and an all-new PvE mode on the identical time, however to get new PvP options out sooner, Blizzard has determined to “decouple” the 2 modes and check PvP earlier than PvE.
It is unclear if this implies Overwatch 2 will really launch in 2022 in some kind, but it surely does imply gamers will get to check out Overwatch 2’s revamped PvP this yr. A closed alpha that features “Blizzard workers, Overwatch League execs, and some different choose teams” begins right now. Blizzard can be holding an Overwatch 2 PC beta in late April that you could sign up for right now on the official Overwatch web site.
“This closed beta will embrace a bigger group of testers who we’ll ask to offer gameplay suggestions,” reads an announcement weblog put up shared with PC Gamer. “Our aim for this part is to check our new options, content material, and programs earlier than we shift to stress-testing the servers with a wider participant base in future Beta assessments.”
The April beta, which Blizzard refers to as “Overwatch 2 PvP Beta 1,” will embrace loads of new stuff for veteran gamers to check out, a lot of which we have solely beforehand seen in showcase movies:
- New Injury Hero: Sojourn
- New Recreation Mode: Push
- 5v5 Multiplayer
- Hero Reworks
- 4 New Maps
This announcement confirms that 5v5 remains to be the plan for Overwatch 2. This can doubtless show to be the most important change coming to PvP, as eradicating one tank function from every crew will drastically change the movement of Overwatch’s group-focused fight. The “hero reworks” talked about above will doubtless embrace beforehand introduced tank adjustments that can make heroes like Reinhardt, Winston, and Orisa extra aggressive brawlers.
Blizzard says right now’s announcement is a “first step” towards rising its communication with gamers and establishing a “constant cadence of updates.” As of now, Overwatch gamers have not seen a brand new hero added to the sport in two years, but when Blizzard retains to its 2019 promise, Overwatch 2’s new heroes, maps, and modes can even come to the unique Overwatch at no extra value.
