Overwatch 2 just dropped a major update through its latest Director’s Take, shared on June 6.
Alec Dawson, the associate game director, shared what’s coming next and how the team is focusing on both fixing old issues and adding fresh content.
A Balance of New Features and Core Fixes
While recent updates brought in exciting changes like the Perks system, hero bans in ranked play, and the launch of the new Stadium map, Dawson made it clear that the team hasn’t forgotten about the original elements that built Overwatch’s identity.
The developers are focused on fine-tuning the core gameplay, improving heroes that need reworks, and polishing existing modes. Their approach revolves around two main goals every season:
- Give players a reason to come back.
- Give players a reason to keep playing.
Big features like new heroes or modes attract players, while updates to ranked play, hero balancing, and in-game progression make the game better for those who play regularly.
What’s Coming in Season 17 and 18?
Dawson explained that the beginning of each Overwatch 2 “year” should feel big, like what players experienced in Season 9 and Season 15. The developers are already planning what this might look like in 2026.
Here’s a breakdown of the upcoming seasons:
Season 17 Highlights:
- Map voting will finally be introduced, letting players have a say in what maps they play.
- A new Flashpoint map, called Aatlis, will be added.
- Reworks for the maps Suravasa and New Junk City are planned for the latter part of the season.
Season 18 Focus:
- Season 18 will be Overwatch 2’s mid-year update, and it’s going to be a big one.
- The Perks system will see a major upgrade. Every hero will get a new perk, with changes designed to better match the developers’ overall gameplay vision.
The future of Overwatch 2 looks promising. With regular improvements, player-focused updates, and long-term planning already in motion for 2026, it’s clear the team is listening to its community and working hard to keep the game fresh.
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