Overwatch 2 Introduces In-Game Real-Time 'Perks,' Brings Back...Loot Boxes

Shockingly, hero shooters are back in the spotlight, and Blizzard won’t be outdone. The latest Overwatch 2 spotlight sees some fresh twists on the nearly ten-year-old franchise, including new modes, new gameplay mechanics, and the return of loot boxes. 

The “Perks” offer an interesting twist on Overwatch’s already-diverse possibilities. As characters are used throughout the course of a single game, they’re offered two chances to progress a “Minor Perk” and a “Major perk,” which offer interesting instant upgrades to these characters. For Torbjorn, they give preliminary Minor Perk examples of a healing Forge Hammer and Overload refilling Rivet Gun’s ammo; the Major Perks are a “Level 3” for the turret, or the Turret spawn being able to be thrown further and attaching to walls and ceilings. 

To lean into this real-time upgrade vibe a little more, there’ll be a new “Stadium” mode. It’s a new best of seven mode where after each round, players earn “currency” to unlock special enhancements for their heroes and their abilities. In short, it sounds a lot like Valorant or Counter-Strike in its format. 

Soon, 6v6 will return in two modes. The first is a 6v6 competitive queue, and the second is the latest “meta” to return called “GOATS.” This one’s a throw back to when the original Overwatch had a meta that was half tanks, half healers, and so this mode will lock in gameplay to only these requirements. It's not quite Overwatch Classic, but it'll be exciting to older fans. 

Also, cosmetic loot boxes are returning, with it being business like Overwatch 1. I don’t know how to expand on this one, even if it’s in the headline. You all know what this is. But hey, at least they give you the odds on rolling different rarities of loot in the blog. 

Speaking of the Recap Blog, this presentation went over a lot more, even, including two upcoming heroes and more detailing on hero abilities and stats. You can read the recap blog, or just watch the entire 34-minute presentation. With Marvel Rivals nipping at Overwatch’s heels, it might be time for Blizzard to deliver.