Overwatch 2 is taking a web page from WoW Basic and returning to the start, asserting a brand-new Overwatch Basic mode that includes the unique 21 heroes and 12 maps from the 2016 launch.
The nostalgia mode, which launches Tuesday and continues over the course of three weeks, will characteristic key moments from Overwatch historical past, Blizzard says. It’s going to start with the unique 1.0 model from launch, with no limits on which characters you may choose, which means you may theoretically have a workforce stuffed with tanks or Torbjörns. And sure, it will likely be 6v6, although Blizzard says it is unrelated to its experiments with bringing the format again to Overwatch 2.
“Overwatch Basic is separate from our broader 6v6 plans. Overwatch Basic is supposed to be a nostalgic expertise, taking heroes, gamers, and the sport again to moments within the recreation’s historical past for restricted time occasions,” Blizzard explains in its official FAQ concerning the occasion.
Overwatch Basic’s gameplay will largely match up with the unique recreation’s mechanics, with characters regaining their authentic talents and Ultimates charging up rather more rapidly. Nonetheless, maps like Dorado, Numbani, Route 66, and Watchpoint: Gibraltar will retain their modifications from Overwatch 2, together with match timing and the way elevator platforms work.
Because the occasion progresses, Blizzard plans to progressively layer in modifications, together with single hero limits. Future updates will return to “fashionable moments within the recreation’s historical past,” with Blizzard citing the 2017 Moth Meta — during which Mercy was one of the vital highly effective characters — and the triple-tank, triple-support fashion of “Goats” as two examples.
Followers for his or her half have been usually constructive concerning the information. Over on Reddit, one participant joked, “Mass rez is again, I am scared mother come get me.” Others are asking for it to be a everlasting arcade recreation mode, although Blizzard is being cagey about its plans for the long run, saying it plans to measure participant response.
Overwatch Basic formally commences on November 12 and can proceed till December 2. It’s going to be playable as a mode inside the usual Overwatch 2 shopper, and won’t embody legacy options like loot containers, the unique UI, or the Aggressive mode. Obtainable modes embody Assault, Escort, Hybrid, and Management.
Kat Bailey is IGN’s Information Director in addition to co-host of Nintendo Voice Chat. Have a tip? Ship her a DM at @the_katbot.
