As Overwatch 2 enters its first full year of playability, developers have given insight into what content to expect in 2023. Overwatch 2's free-to-play model has launched to relative success (albeit with questionable microtransactions), and breathed new life into Blizzard's hero shooter. The studio, while off to a rocky start with character balancing, has been responding to feedback and providing updates so players know what to expect as Overwatch 2 enters its second year.Overwatch 2's content schedule works in nine-week season cycles. This past season gave players the new Tank hero Ramattra and the Escort map Shambali Monastery. Season 3, slated for the start of February, will only provide a new map, as going forward, every other season will introduce a new playable hero. Overwatch 2's seasonal Battle Pass and events will continue as usual, though developers have said changes may come depending on player feedback.
Overwatch 2 Will Receive PvE Story Missions & Heroes In 2023
One of the most anticipated additions to Overwatch 2 in 2023 is the PvE story missions. However, little is known about when they will be added, how many, and how they will work. New maps have also been teased in-game and through developer updates. The possibilities include the Atlantic Arcology, India, and Gothenburg, with the latter two having the opportunity to introduce new game modes. Three new heroes will be introduced in 2023, with confirmation they will be two Supports and another Tank.
Overwatch 2 - Everything Revealed About The 2023 Heroes
While it is disappointing that no new DPS characters will be added, Blizzard is emphasizing Overwatch 2's demanding Support role to balance the roster. Moira and Brigitte have also been in the discussion of getting reworks, meaning the Support Role could look very different by the end of the year. A new Tank is surprising since Overwatch 2 has essentially seen four new Tanks, counting the Orisa and Doomfist rework and the recent confirmation of a soft rework to Roadhog. Currently, nothing is known about whom the new heroes could be, but OW2's developers said clues are hidden on the Midtown and Esperança maps.
When it comes to new updates, Blizzard has remained relatively silent to avoid giving away key details. While it doesn't give fans much to go on, it does help buffer the surprise feature of announcements and has been supplemented with clever hints to keep player interest. This year will be important after Overwatch 2's rough launch, as it looks to impress players enough to keep long-term interest in the franchise. If all the content planned for 2023 comes through and is appropriately executed, Blizzard will likely complete this goal and leave Overwatch 2 in a great place.
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