By Over the weekend at this year’s Blizzcon, Blizzard announced Overwatch 2 and dropped two new trailers along with it. The announcement comes three years into the lifespan of the original Overwatch and is sure to give the series some much needed life. Of course, despite all the fanfare, there’s still a lot of mystery surrounding Overwatch 2. Worry not, because I’m here to answer all your questions!
Overwatch 2 is Both an Expansion, and a Sequel. Which it is More of Remains to be Seen.
When I say expansion, I’m talking about the multiplayer. The most important thing to note about Overwatch 2 is that current owners of the original will have access to all the new multiplayer additions. FOR FREE! Those Additions include four new maps, a new game mode, and new characters. There’ll also be more content announcements leading up to its release. As far as gameplay goes, everything will remain the same, barring some balance fixes and interface enhancements. Also, owners of Overwatch and of Overwatch 2 will be able to play together regardless of their version.
When I say sequel, I’m taking about Overwatch 2’s new PvE, Co-op story mode. This mode, however, is not free, and Blizzard has yet to drop any hints as to what the price will be. But what they have shown, is a lot of cool new features exclusive to the story mode.
The Story Mode is Looking to Have Some Solid Additions
Aside from finally getting some decent exposition around Overwatch’s surprisingly interesting lore, the story mode also brings some unique gameplay mechanics. Leveling up the heroes you use during story missions grants access to an RPG style skill tree. You’ll also be able to customize your hero’s abilities. Reinhardt, for example, showed off an Earthshatter that covers the entire area around him, and some strange grenade tool.
Again, these ability upgrades will be story exclusive. So don’t worry about a level 100 Genji cutting you in half with his three-sword style while you’re trying to play a competitive match.
There’s No Release Date in Sight
No release date was announced, and it’s unlikely it’ll release anytime soon. Game director, Jeff Kaplan said in an interview
I don’t have a date, It’s not this year, that’s a pretty safe answer. I have a feeling we’ll be talking about Overwatch 2 again next year at BlizzCon. If that helps.
Jeff Kaplan
That being said, he also added there’ll be “at least one” more character addition to the original Overwatch, so fans can look forward to new content continuing to come out until Overwatch 2’s release.
So buckle in, it looks like it’s going to be a long wait. Until then, we’ll keep you posted on any announcements that come our way.
