Contrary to previous reports, Blizzard has now stated that Overwatch 2 will completely replace the original Overwatch when it launches on October 4. The 2016 team-based multiplayer shooter took players to a colorful world of heroes and let them choose between a wide range of unique playable characters. Blizzard originally stated that Overwatch would still be supported after the launch of its sequel, but now the developer says that the release of Overwatch 2 will bring an end to support of the first game.
As a follow-up to Blizzard's first team-based shooter, Overwatch 2 will introduce a host of new content for players to enjoy. When it launches on October 4 the game will include multiple new heroes, including the rail gun-wielding DPS class Sojourn and a brutal tank named Junker Queen. The game's first season will also include six new maps that will take players to exotic locales like New York City, Portugal and Rio. In a dramatic shift from the first installment, Overwatch 2 will see players compete in two teams of five rather than two teams of six. Blizzard recently announced that Overwatch 2 will be free-to-play, too, meaning all fans will be able to experience the series' second installment free of charge.
During a recent Reddit AMA, Overwatch 2 director Aaron Keller revealed that Overwatch 2 will completely replace the original Overwatch at launch. When the sequel was originally announced Blizzard said that the first game would still be supported, but this plan has apparently changed. Continued support of the original Overwatch will come to an end, forcing players to transition into Overmatch 2 and its new mechanics. However, the free-to-play nature of Overwatch 2 means that fans will not have to actually spend more money to keep playing the team-based title.
Following the recent Xbox & Bethesda Games Showcase event, an in-depth preview of Overwatch 2 revealed more details about the upcoming title and its content roadmap. When it launches on October 4 the team-based shooter will include three new heroes, six new maps, a new game mode, a new Mythic skin and more. December 6 will then kick off Season 2, which will bring with it a new Tank hero, a new map, more than 30 new skins and more. Blizzard is expected to support Overwatch 2 well into the future, and its free-to-play model means any gamer can join in on the action.
Overwatch 2 has changed dramatically since its announcement, with the free-to-play live service title now poised to completely replace its predecessor. This means players have no choice but to embrace the sequel's character reworks, mechanical changes and 5v5 format. However, the free-to-play nature of Overwatch 2 means that players who already own Overwatch can avoid paying full price for its sequel.
Overwatch 2 will release on October 4 for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch and PC.
Source: Aaron Keller/Reddit
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