Overwatch 2’s Perks Are Getting a Major Overhaul – Here’s What to Expect!

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In a recent announcement, Overwatch 2 unveiled substantial plans for the Perk system, with adjustments like buffs and nerfs set for mid-Season 15, additional ones in Season 16, and a significant overhaul slated for Season 18. Despite the fact that Perks are a relatively new addition to Overwatch 2, it appears Blizzard is committed to ensuring the system doesn’t become outdated.

In the debut of Season 15 for Overwatch 2, a significant aspect called Perks has been introduced. Each character is given four Perk options to select – two minor ones at level two, and two major ones at level three. These enhancements span from stat improvements and passive effects to complete overhauls or entirely new abilities.

It appears that Overwatch 2 is still refining the concept of Perks, as indicated by a recent Reddit AMA with developers such as lead gameplay designer Alec Dawson and senior game producer Kenny Hudson. Many questions from the community revolved around Perks, and Hudson hinted at some upcoming balance changes in the mid-Season 15 update, including enhancements to Roadhog’s Hog Toss and Juno’s Re-Boots, as well as adjustments to Bastion’s overpowered Self-Repair Perk. Additionally, Hudson mentioned that Season 16 might witness some underutilized Perks being phased out in favor of entirely new ones.

The Future of Perks in Overwatch 2

Not only is this exciting, but Dawson also hinted at additional changes yet to come. In Season 18, Overwatch 2 plans to revamp the Perk system significantly. Each hero will receive at least one new Perk in this update. While the exact percentage may fluctuate, he mentioned that around 25-50% of existing Perks could be replaced, focusing on less popular choices rather than fan favorites. Moreover, Season 18 might serve as a period for assessing the entire Perk system, potentially leading to adjustments in catch-up mechanics, progression gains, or even allowing players to choose their starting level.

The American Medical Association (AMA) discussed various aspects related to Perks as well. For instance, they mentioned that since the implementation of the system, counterswapping has decreased by 25%. Moreover, Overwatch 2 is not intending to introduce a feature that allows players to switch Perks once chosen, although they might implement measures to help players who select incorrect ones in the heat of battle. Essentially, it appears that Overwatch 2 is focusing on making Perks a means to maintain character kits versatile, adaptable, and exciting while ensuring hero selection remains influential.

The upcoming patch for Overwatch 2, which is mid-Season 15, is predicted to release between mid and late March. Following this, Season 16 is scheduled for April 22nd. This means that Season 18, together with the Perk update and the introduction of the second hero in Overwatch 2, will occur around late August. With exciting features like Perks, Stadium mode, and other newly announced content, it seems that the year 2025 promises to be a significant one for Overwatch 2.

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2025-02-28 04:14