Overwatch 2: PvP-Mode Will Have a 5v5 Format

Blizzard Entertainment have announced a fundamental change to the sequel of Overwatch – a team in the player-versus-player modes will consist of five players, down from six. Thus, in standard modes a team will include one Tank, two Damage, and two Support heroes. The announcement has been made during a developer livestream.

This change will affect many aspects of the game, most notably – the gameplay of Tank heroes will change from focusing on your team’s protection to a more active brawler-style gameplay. This means that most of Tank heroes will be significantly reworked, especially characters currently focused of shielding such as Orisa, Sigma, and Reinhardt.

The other major change is an introduction of Role Passives. Currently these abilities allow Damage heroes to have a move faster, Support heroes to automatically heal when not taking damage, and Tank heroes to take reduced knockback and provide less ultimate charge to opponents who damage them. The 5v5 format will also lead to other changes, including map adjustments.

Earlier in February it was revealed that Overwatch 2 would not launch until at least 2022. The game is expected to introduce a major PvE campaign and add new PvP game modes. Owners of the original game and its sequel will be able to play together.