In a significant shift from the original, Overwatch 2 switched from a 6v6 format to a quicker, 5v5 setup with a single tank. This change saw a reduction in the use of crowd control, tactics that impede or slow an opponent’s movement with stun or freeze effects.
However, Blizzard appears to be reassessing this decision, aiming to restore some elements of crowd control by adjusting the abilities of existing characters.
The Need for Change: Balancing Gameplay
Aaron Keller, the director of the game, shared his insights about this change in a blog post on the Overwatch website. Initially, Blizzard’s intention in removing most crowd control abilities in Overwatch 2 was to delegate the regulation of match speed to tank characters like Orisa and Roadhog.
Keller described how the crowd control abilities in the first game could make a player feel “like you were in a pinball machine” when confronted by a well-coordinated team. Retooling these abilities seemed to be a positive move for Overwatch 2.
However, with the introduction of hypermobile characters such as Sojourn, Kiriko, and Lifeweaver, the team has been led to reassess their previous decision. Keller reveals that they’re now exploring a middle ground for the upcoming Season 5.
A Tweak in the Tactics: Mei and Cassidy
The revisions in Overwatch 2 Season 5 will primarily impact Mei and Cassidy, characters renowned for their crowd control prowess in the original Overwatch. Mei’s primary fire in the original game could freeze an enemy in place after sustained damage.
While it doesn’t seem that Blizzard is fully backtracking on this, Mei’s primary fire will now have the added ability to slow enemies considerably for 1.5 seconds.
Cassidy is also set for an upgrade, with his Magnetic Grenade receiving an update that reduces its damage but has the ability to slow enemies and block movement abilities. How this will affect the overall feel of the game and the tactical choices made by Cassidy players remains to be seen.
Other Adjustments: Lifeweaver and Junker Queen
Alongside the changes to crowd control, Keller also announces that Lifeweaver, the newest hero, will receive buffs in Season 5 to enhance his viability.
Specifics are to be revealed in future patch notes, but players can expect an increase in his healing and damage output, a heal on Life Grip, a slightly reduced hitbox, and some quality-of-life changes to Petal Platform.
On the other hand, Junker Queen is due for some nerfs. Her Commanding Shout ability will now provide an additional 150 health instead of the previous 200. Additionally, the charge time for her ultimate ability will be increased, aiming to balance her considerable popularity in the previous season due to her high survivability.
Despite recent news of significant reductions to the planned PvE modes, Overwatch 2’s development team continues to work on refining the game’s balance and features, as illustrated by these character updates.
