Blizzard is ready to prioritize fun in Overwatch 2, moving away from strict balance with newly introduced hero perks. These perks will allow heroes to level up during matches, leading to impactful changes.

Introduction of Hero Perks

As of next week, Overwatch 2 players can expect a notable transformation in gameplay. With the addition of static hero leveling and mini-skill trees, available through Season 15 starting February 18, hero perks are set to change how gameplay unfolds.

Changes Announced by Blizzard

Alec Dawson, the lead gameplay designer, discussed how the decision to implement these perks was driven by a need to keep the game evolving. “One of the things we all agreed on was that Overwatch needed to evolve and needed to have more choice,” Dawson noted during a press roundtable at Blizzard’s Irvine campus.

Dawson emphasized the importance of bringing more creativity to the game and ensuring that players feel the effects of balance changes moving forward.

“We should be a little scared of what we are putting out there, in terms of how it might affect the game.” — Alec Dawson
*Translation: * “We should be a little scared of what we are putting out there, in terms of how it might affect the game.”

These developments promise a refreshing take on how players utilize heroes in Overwatch 2, with perks tailored to enhance hero abilities, promoting unique playstyles and strategies.

Upcoming Features: New perks will continue evolving, changing seasonally, to maintain an exciting and fresh experience in Overwatch 2.

For further updates, players can look forward to the introduction of Stadium, a new third-person mode, alongside the ongoing enhancements made to existing heroes.