Aaron Mibab 7: Overwatch 2?

     It has been a little more than a month since Overwatch 2 was released. For context, Overwatch is a large esports title that was originally released in 2016. I have mixed feelings about Overwatch 2. 

     As an Overwatch 1 owner, I paid about $30 for the original game. All my items and ownership of the game transferred to Overwatch 2 along with giving me a new character. The new Overwatch 2 is actually free to play, unlike its predecessor.

     The characters in Overwatch 2 are the same as its predecessor except for a few minor ability and appearance tweaks and three new characters added. Overwatch 2 has largely the same game modes and new maps. 

     Overwatch 2 features a new 5v5 playstyle changing the dynamic from the old 6v6. Now teams are composed of 1 tank, 2 DPS, and 2 healers (from 2,2,2 respectively). 

     These are all the changes (other than money related) in Overwatch 2. In my opinion, this game is more of an update than a sequel. During the announcement for Overwatch 2, a PVE mode was said to be included, but now, that is scheduled for 2023. If the game launched with the PvE, it would have added a new and unique way to play, providing it validity as a sequel. But in its current state, I cannot view this as more than an update/publicity stunt. 

     It was very clear to the gaming industry that Overwatch was dying. From an economic standpoint, it needed a way to generate hype and attract many new players. Thus Overwatch 2 was the solution. I feel that it is more of a rebrand than a sequel. It’s also clear that Overwatch chose to abandon its loot pack model for the free-to-play with a battle pass model in order to grow a much-needed larger player base while gaining revenue. 

     But the player base came with costs. Upon its launch, the game was plagued with crazy long queue lines. On its second day, I waited +1 HOUR(s) just to play the game. It’s a shame the company didn’t spend more on servers, especially on launch. 

     As a consumer, I love that Overwatch is now available to a larger audience. I also love that Overwatch is finally developing new content and characters. Unfortunately, I don’t think enough was done for the original player base, who at times paid $60 for Overwatch 1 only for the game to be free now. Additionally, its current method of gaining revenue is really frustrating with new characters being locked in its battle pass, making it pay-to-play; because the new characters are relatively good, it is actually pay-to-win. Additionally, the battle pass is ridiculously difficult and time-consuming with the rewards as mostly mediocre/poor cosmetics. Additionally, unlike other games available (like Apex Legends), those who purchase the Battle pass and complete it, do not get enough in-game currency to purchase the next. 

     I personally would rather spend my time playing other games than a rebranded Overwatch. 

Those who played, what are your thoughts on Overwatch? For new players or those introduced through my blog, I recommend playing before commenting; because to new players, it could be fun!