Overwatch 2 is experiencing a significant sentiment shift as it claws its way back from being Steam’s worst user-reviewed game. With its latest Season 15 update, players are beginning to see glimmers of the game they had long hoped for, as recent reviews turn ‘mixed.’
When Overwatch 2 took the gaming world by storm two years ago, it quickly became infamous for its sharp departure from its beloved predecessor. Criticism of its aggressive monetization model and the controversial decision to make Overwatch 1 unplayable by morphing it into a free-to-play sequel led to an overwhelmingly negative reception. The cancellation of the anticipated PvE Hero mode further fueled dissatisfaction, resultantly propelling the game into the abyss of user reviews.
However, Overwatch 2 appears to be making a comeback, thanks to a series of transformative changes introduced with Season 15. The overhaul—featuring hero perks, the revival of loot boxes, and adjustments to gameplay mechanics—has been pivotal in altering the narrative around the game. Recent statistics reveal that 43% of user reviews in the past month are positive, marking a notable upward trend.
For many players, this shift represents a return to form. ‘They just released Overwatch 2,’ reads a glowing review, expressing that the update shields the game from the taint of corporate interests. Another player appreciates the new dynamics that blend nostalgic elements from Overwatch 1 with fresh mechanics.
Yet, the competition from Marvel Rivals—a hero shooter from NetEase that has rapidly amassed millions of players—looms large over Blizzard. Despite this new competitive pressure, Overwatch 2 director Aaron Keller remains optimistic. He acknowledges the challenge yet finds the rivalry with Marvel Rivals creatively stimulating.
Keller’s recognition of the necessity to embrace innovation rather than caution could signal a brighter future for Overwatch 2. While it’s premature to declare the game’s redemption complete, the traction gained on platforms like Valve indicates potential for ongoing improvement. Numbers reveal peak concurrent players on Steam nearly doubling to 60,000—a promising sign of re-engagement from the community.
Despite the hurdles, Season 15 stands as a testament to Overwatch 2’s enduring appeal and potential for recovery. With continued updates and player feedback, Blizzard seeks to harmonize player expectations with visionary gameplay, aiming to please both nostalgic fans and new entrants to the Overwatch universe. Whether Overwatch 2 can fully reclaim its legacy and surpass its ‘mixed’ reception remains an ongoing narrative to watch.
