Blizzard Reveals Radical Overhaul of Overwatch 2, Including Return of Loot Boxes, Perks, and Third-Person Mode

Overwatch 2 is undergoing a massive transformation in 2025, exceeding typical content updates with core gameplay changes, most notably the introduction of hero perks. Nearly nine years after the original Overwatch's debut and two and a half years since Overwatch 2 launched, Season 15 (February 18th) will fundamentally alter 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 addresses the competitive pressure from titles like NetEase's Marvel Rivals.

Hero Perks in Overwatch 2

Each hero will gain two selectable perks—minor and major—earned through level progression during matches. Minor perks (level 2) subtly enhance base abilities; for example, Orisa's primary fire might refund Heat on critical hits. Major perks drastically alter gameplay, potentially replacing abilities like swapping Orisa's Javelin Spin for her Barrier, or making her Energy Javelin chargeable, faster, and piercing.

These "gameplay-shifting" choices (as described by lead gameplay designer Alec Dawson) are mutually exclusive, mirroring the talent system in Blizzard's Heroes of the Storm. Perks unlock progressively throughout a match.

Stadium: A New Round-Based Mode

Season 16 (April) introduces "Stadium," a 5v5, best-of-7 round-based competitive mode. Keller calls it the biggest game mode since the original Overwatch. Players earn and spend currency between rounds to upgrade heroes, boosting attributes or unlocking significant ability changes (e.g., flying Wraith Form for Reaper). While perks aren't initially included in Stadium, future integration isn't ruled out. Stadium also features a unique third-person perspective option, allowing players to switch between first and third-person views.

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. Overwatch Classic, arriving mid-Season 16, revives the "GOATs Meta" (three tanks, three supports) from Overwatch 1.

New Heroes: Freja and Aqua

Freja, a crossbow-wielding bounty hunter, arrives in Season 16. Concept art for the next hero, Aqua (water-bending staff wielder), was also revealed.

The Return of Loot Boxes

Loot boxes are returning, but only obtainable through free methods (battle pass free track, weekly rewards). Transparency regarding drop rates will be implemented.

Competitive Updates

Season 15 resets competitive ranks, offering rewards like Galactic weapon skins. Season 16 introduces hero bans and map voting. Rank icons return to hero portraits.

New Cosmetics and Collaborations

Numerous new cosmetics are coming, including a Pixiu-inspired Zenyatta Mythic skin (Season 15), and collaborations continue, with a second partnership with LE SSERAFIM in March.

Competitive Expansion

The competitive scene expands with a new China stage, increased live events, Face.it league integration, a new tournament system, and in-game team items.