Overwatch 2 has recently rolled out a series of big updates that have changed many parts of the game. It seems Blizzard, the developer, is still trying to stay competitive in the hero shooter market. While the success of Marvel Rivals may have pushed some changes forward, it’s likely that these updates were planned beforehand. New features include hero-specific perks that change gameplay and allow for more strategic choices during matches. A new game mode also seems to be directly matched with many other hero shooters, like Valorant and Deadlock.

Overwatch 2 needs to be a strong competitor in the gaming scene. Games like Marvel Rivals, Deadlock, and Valorant take away a potential player base. However, doing things like bringing back lootboxes makes the everything that went wrong with Overwatch 2’s launch may stay in the past if these new updates are delivered where needed.

Overwatch 2 Is Making A Ton Of Changes

New Updates Are Great For OW2 Players

Overwatch 2 is going through some big changes aimed at improving the game and responding to player . One major update is the introduction of hero-specific perks, which will change gameplay by allowing players to customize their strategies for different situations. This means players can connect more deeply with their characters, experiment more, and make smarter choices during matches.

Another new feature is the Stadium, which serves as a fresh competitive arena. Here, players can earn currency and invest in special upgrades for their heroes, adding an element of resource management that encourages strategic planning and helps players create the strongest hero builds to outsmart their opponents. For the first time, players can also choose to play in either first-person or third-person view.

Additionally, OW2 has responded to community by bringing back hero bans and map voting, which lets players influence hero choices and map selections for more varied and enjoyable matches. Anything that Blizzard can do to appease the game's active community is usually welcome. Right now, the game is headed in the right direction.

A more controversial part of the update is loot boxes. Loot boxes are making a comeback, giving players a chance to unlock various cosmetic items. There are also new heroes to explore, including Freja, a bounty hunter with an explosive crossbow, who adds new challenges for experienced players. Developers and publishers love lootboxes because they generate money through a system a lot like gambling. It can be argued that they are a necessary evil, but it’s never good for players when they're introduced to games, easily making lootboxes the worst part of the update.

Finally, Overwatch 2 is expanding its player base by welcoming players from China and Australia. There's a chance that this will add new perspectives to the game and community, but it may also be a move due to the dwindling player count for Overwatch 2, according to SteamDB. Per the same source, Marvel Rivals outdoes it constantly, and despite having many playtests, Deadlock has already beaten the all-time high. However, with all these changes focused on improving gameplay and player experience, Overwatch 2 is setting the stage to be a real contender.

Overwatch 2 Stadium Sounds More Like Deadlock

It’s Almost Like a Direct Competitor

The recent changes in Overwatch 2, especially with the new Stadium mode, can be compared with other competitive games. It’s not hard to see Marvel Rivals might have influenced Overwatch 2's new approach, but the gameplay in Stadium resembles features from Valve's game, Deadlock, as well as other popular competitive titles like Valorant.

Stadium adds a new layer of resource management and hero customization that hasn’t been seen in Overwatch 2 before. Players can earn in-game currency to unlock and improve their heroes' abilities, similar to how Deadlock’s system requires gathering Souls and ability points for upgrades and items. This introduces a strategic layer that moves away from Overwatch 2's usual hero-focused design, incorporating elements more commonly found in MOBA games where managing resources and leveling up characters is essential.

Overwatch 2 has also introduced a best-of-seven format, which gives it a fresh perspective, and players can now experience the game in the third person for the first time. Stadium starts with 14 heroes, with more expected to be added, but balancing these heroes will be crucial for competitive play. Team composition, as seen in other competitive games, has a big influence on how matches go. It seems the plan isn’t to steal ideas but to improve upon things players generally like.

Marvel Rivals & Deadlock Are Real Overwatch 2 Competition

Overwatch 2 Has a Lot To Prove

Overwatch 2 has made some big changes, the biggest being hero perks and a new Stadium mode. That’s likely because Blizzard wants the game to stand out in the competitive hero-shooter market. However, it faces tough competition from games like Marvel Rivals and Deadlock. Overwatch 2 may have added those new features, but it’s still not guaranteed to be enough to attract players. The competition is far ahead of Blizzard, and Overwatch 2 has a lot of bad memories behind it.

Marvel Rivals, featuring popular Marvel characters, is a lot easier for casual players to jump into. The chance to play as beloved heroes with special abilities and team dynamics is an attractive option. The idea of it gets better as time goes on, thanks to the Marvel Cinematic Universe constantly putting superheroes on the big screen. It’s hard for Overwatch 2 to compete with that. Although Overwatch 2 allows for more customization, Marvel Rivals benefits from its well-known characters and stories, which could make it easier for new players to connect.

On the other hand, Deadlock presents a more direct challenge to OW2's new venture. Its early development state also features resource collection for upgrading heroes, similar to Overwatch 2's new Stadium mode. However, Deadlock also boasts unique weapons and abilities for each hero, set in an alternate New York City with spooky elements. This different theme and strategy might draw players in thanks to the innovation it offers.

Overwatch 2 has to compete and get the attention of players who might be looking forward to a MOBA-style experience. Overwatch 2's ability to compete with these two games will depend on how well it adapts to these changes, maintains balance, and improves gameplay. Blizzard can’t rest on this victory; there has to be more to come. Even still, a victory like this is still a win for the company. The changes will make it easier for players to give the game a second chance.

Source: SteamDB (1, 2, 3), Blizzard