Blizzard is taking a nostalgic turn by bringing back the original Overwatch experience through a limited-time event called Overwatch Classic, allowing players to relive the magic of the game's 2016 launch.
Original Gameplay Experience
Overwatch Classic aims to recreate the authentic 2016 launch experience within Overwatch 2. Players will be able to enjoy the original 6v6 format with the initial roster of 21 heroes, complete with their original abilities. Notable features include D.Va's self-destructing mech that could eliminate herself, Torbjorn's armor pack distribution, and Mercy's team-wide resurrection ultimate ability. The mode will run from November 12 to December 2, 2024, accessible through the Events Hub.
Classic Features and Modifications
While the mode strives to capture the essence of original Overwatch, some elements will remain modernized. The maps, UI, and sound effects will maintain their Overwatch 2 versions. However, the game will revert to the original four-class system (offense, defense, tank, and support) and remove hero role restrictions. Initially, there will be no limits on hero selection, allowing for the chaotic team compositions that defined the early days of Overwatch.
Future Possibilities
Blizzard has confirmed that Overwatch Classic won't be a one-time event. The development team plans to feature different eras of the game's history in future iterations. Lead Gameplay Designer Alec Dawson hints at potentially revisiting popular metas, such as the dominant Mercy era from a year after launch. These future versions will make significant time jumps to showcase distinct periods in Overwatch's evolution rather than following a gradual, patch-by-patch approach.
Player Response and Testing
The introduction of Overwatch Classic serves multiple purposes, including gathering data on 6v6 gameplay and engine stress testing. This aligns with Blizzard's observation of players' interest in less competitive, more casual game modes, as evidenced by the success of Junkenstein's Laboratory, which attracted 35% of total playtime on its launch day. The mode represents Blizzard's effort to provide a more relaxed alternative to the current competitive focus of Overwatch 2.