Overwatch 2 is taking a web page from WoW Classic and returning to the start, saying a brand-new Overwatch Classic 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 function key moments from Overwatch historical past, Blizzard says. It’ll start with the unique 1.0 model from launch, with no limits on which characters you may decide, which means you may theoretically have a crew filled 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 Classic is separate from our broader 6v6 plans. Overwatch Classic is supposed to be a nostalgic expertise, taking heroes, gamers, and the sport again to moments within the sport’s historical past for restricted time occasions,” Blizzard explains in its official FAQ concerning the occasion.
Overwatch Classic’s gameplay will largely match up with the unique sport’s mechanics, with characters regaining their unique skills and Ultimates charging up far more shortly. However, 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.
As the occasion progresses, Blizzard plans to progressively layer in modifications, together with single hero limits. Future updates will return to “widespread moments within the sport’s historical past,” with Blizzard citing the 2017 Moth Meta — wherein Mercy was one of the highly effective characters — and the triple-tank, triple-support fashion of “Goats” as two examples.
Fans for his or her half have been usually optimistic concerning the information. Over on Reddit, one participant joked, “Mass rez is again, I’m scared mother come get me.” Others are asking for it to be a everlasting arcade sport mode, although Blizzard is being cagey about its plans for the longer term, saying it plans to measure participant response.
Overwatch Classic formally commences on November 12 and can proceed till December 2. It’ll be playable as a mode inside the usual Overwatch 2 shopper, and won’t embrace legacy options like loot containers, the unique UI, or the Competitive mode. Available modes embrace Assault, Escort, Hybrid, and Control.
Kat Bailey is IGN’s News Director in addition to co-host of Nintendo Voice Chat. Have a tip? Send her a DM at @the_katbot.
