Abe Gottesman
2024-01-11 11:19:17
This weekend will be chaotic as they've completely overhauled Overwatch's Quick Play mode.
This large of a change has not happened since Hero Pools were implemented and removed.
Adjusting one of the core game modes to Overwatch is rare and this drastically has almost never happened.
So why is Blizzard changing things now?
Before the change to Overwatch 2, Activision Blizzard has been creative in testing changes for balance and community perception.
The official Overwatch blue post explained how and why they've changed the Quick Play ruleset.
"We want to learn what changes to Overwatch 2 you enjoy the most," Blizzard wrote.
"The Arcade is meant for game modes that typically only play one specific map type (like Assault) or completely different ways to play Overwatch."
"We want to encourage more players to join in on the fun," Blizzard explained.
In addition, most of the experimental cards from Overwatch tested hero balance changes, whereas these changes affect the core gameplay rules of Quick Play."
Many changes in Overwatch are typically made in their own separate playlist.
However, that separates the player base as well as skews and limits data for the developers.
Making a change that directly impacts so many players is a first and sets a precedent.
This could be the start of a bigger shift in Overwatch 2's balance philosophy as well as development strategy.
Overwatch's Quick Play will return to normal after January 14.