Overwatch vs. Overwatch 2: All the differences we know

The wait for Overwatch 2 has been a long one for franchise fans, but it’s finally over. As of Oct. 4, 2022, Overwatch 2 has officially launched for PC and consoles. Over its first couple days, despite long queues and a couple of separate DDoS attacks, it’s attracting a strong player base and some impressive numbers on Twitch.

Overwatch 2 feels more like a massive upgrade/update combination than a fully-fledged sequel, but it was released with a massive amount of important changes. Whether you’re stuck in queue for the first time, looking to jump back into the franchise, or looking to jump in for the time, here are all of the differences between Overwatch and Overwatch 2.

Overwatch 2 is free-to-play, with season passes replacing loot boxes

The biggest change has been the game’s shift to a free-to-play model, with premium seasonal passes completely replacing the game’s hot-topic loot box mechanic. New players can earn the new heroes from the free path of the season pass, or unlock them instantly by purchasing the premium passes. Players can also earn a wealth of cosmetics by leveling up their pass via daily, weekly, and seasonal quests.

Six-vs-six gameplay has been replaced by five-vs-five

The core gameplay of Overwatch 2 has received a huge and definitely welcome change with the shift to five-vs-five. Teams now consist of just one tank, reducing the amount of shield shooting and lack of action that plagued Overwatch when it had two tanks. Tanking is considerably harder now, but the changes also make DPS players and heroes feel more impactful.

Three new heroes, with more on the way

Three new heroes have already been added to the game, with more set to be released in future seasons. During season one, players will be able to play with cybersoldier DPS Sojourn, damage-dealing gladiator tank Junker Queen, and ninja healer Kiriko.

Single player coming later

While not available at launch, players should expect both a single-player campaign as well as seasonal hero missions starting in 2023. Players will be able to make use of some of the new single-player talent tree systems that have been promised and explore plenty of Overwatch‘s extensive lore.

Many more changes

Let’s quickly run through some of the other changes from Overwatch to Overwatch 2:

• Significant changes to many of the abilities and playstyles of some of the game’s iconic heroes, such as Orisa, Doomfist, and Bastion.
• New maps such as Esperança, Colosseo, and New Queen Street.
• Assault mode has been removed. A new competitive/quick play mode called Push has been added.
• New cosmetics and Arcade modes.