Overwatch 2 Reaches Hero Milestone for Significant Gameplay Transformations

With the imminent rollout of Overwatch 2’s 42nd hero, Hazard, the number of playable characters is set to double since the original game’s launch. This significant increase has sparked a notable shift in player sentiment regarding hero bans, with many advocating for the introduction of this feature.

The Overwatch Champions Series (OWCS) 2024 concluded at DreamHack Stockholm in November, where the Falcons triumphed, largely due to their strategic leverage of the formidable tank, Mauga. Other teams struggled to counter this strength, highlighting the growing desire for hero bans within competitive play.

Earlier this year, the Esports World Cup offered a glimpse of potential hero ban systems in action, with positive feedback from participants. As such, there has been a newfound eagerness among the community to see hero bans implemented both in-game and at future events.

Growing Demand for Hero Bans in Overwatch 2

During the finals of the OWCS, coach-turned-caster Kim ‘NineK’ Bum-hoon voiced his support for a ban system, tweeting: “We need Ban system.” This simple expression of interest catalyzed a wave of discussion across social media platforms, as many players echoed his sentiment in favor of establishing hero bans, especially given the lack of hero diversity noted during the event.

We need Ban system.

— NineK (@NineK_OW) November 22, 2024

Some players articulated their concerns, stating that while the game boasts an impressive roster of 41 heroes (soon to be 42), the gameplay at the World Finals showcased a limited selection. “In competitive scenarios, we only saw a small fraction of the available heroes, with just five of them dominating the matches,”one Reddit user remarked. “It begs the question: would Overwatch still be engaging if it allowed only five heroes?”

Furthermore, another user insisted, “We need hero bans in pro play, PERIOD,” emphasizing the necessity for change in the current competitive landscape. Many others shared similar thoughts, noting that they previously hesitated on supporting ban systems due to a lack of heroes but now believe that the time has come for implementation.

Some community members are actively participating in the official OWCS feedback survey to voice their desire for hero bans. As highlighted by another Reddit user, “Talking about hero bans on socials is great, but OWCS has an official feedback survey! Make it known here! This is the most direct way for us to tell them what we want to see.”

Talking about Hero Bans on socials is great, but OWCS has an official feedback survey! Make it known here! This is the most direct way for us to tell them what we want to see by u/ApostLeOW in Competitiveoverwatch

Developers Tease Significant Changes Ahead

While the call for hero bans in professional play intensifies, opinions regarding their implementation in ranked modes remain mixed. Some players fear that banning heroes could detract from the fun of the game. “Limiting players from using their favorite characters might dissuade them from playing altogether,” one concerned player argued. “Plus, it could prolong the ranked match experience.”

On the other hand, developers appear to be considering community feedback. Game Director Aaron Keller has suggested plans for “fundamental changes”to Overwatch. As the roster is primed for a significant expansion with Hazard’s addition in Season 14, it may indeed be the right moment for developers to explore hero bans within competitive contexts.

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