The new season of Overwatch 2 is here, and this one promises to be more thrilling than ever.
Season 16: Stadium introduces an exciting new hero, but the standout feature is a brand-new game mode that merges elements from MOBAs and competitive first-person shooters for an exhilarating experience.
Dive in below for all the updates and changes in Overwatch 2 Season 16.
Early Patch Notes for Overwatch 2 Season 16
Prepare for a wealth of new content in OW2 this season, featuring an innovative game mode, a fresh hero, a limited-time collaboration, and an array of special skins and updates.
Introducing the New Game Mode: Stadium
The new Stadium mode in OW2 rejuvenates gameplay with novel maps and a unique third-person perspective. It introduces mid-game items, power-ups, and features a best-of-seven format tailored for ranked players.
This mode rewards dedicated players with exclusive prizes.
Meet Freja: The New Hero
Joining the OW2 squad is Freja, a bounty hunter and the latest Damage hero. She wields a crossbow and has already been tweaked based on feedback from her playtests last month.
Here are Freja’s exciting abilities:
| Ability | Description |
|---|---|
| Revdraw Crossbow (Primary Fire) | Launch a barrage of rapid-fire bolts. |
| Take Aim (Secondary Fire) | Aim down sights for a powerful explosive bolt. |
| Quick Dash | Dash in any direction and reload your explosive bolt. |
| Updraft | Soar upwards to gain a strategic view of the battlefield. |
| Bola Shot (Ultimate) | Fire an explosive bola that ensnares enemies, pulling in their teammates. |
Battle Pass Enhancements
Each new season brings a fresh battle pass with eight new skins available to unlock, along with additional skins rolling out in the store for heroes like Genji, Venture, Ashe, Mauga, Lifeweaver, Brigitte, Tracer, and Moira.
Hero Balancing Changes
As is customary for new seasons in OW2, Season 16 introduces significant buffs and nerfs to the existing roster. Stay tuned for more detailed information on the balancing changes closer to launch day.
Exciting Gundam Wing Collaboration
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic Gundam series, new Gundam-themed skins are set to be released, starting with a special costume for Mercy. Keep an eye out for announcements on which other heroes will receive new skins before the collaboration goes live on April 29.
Dokiwatch-Themed Skins
D.Va, Brigitte, Freja, Kiriko, Widowmaker, and Juno will be rocking charming Dokiwatch-themed skins this season. These highly anticipated skins are sure to be popular in the in-game store.
Mythic Juno Skin: Heart of Hope
This season introduces Juno’s Mythic skin, Heart of Hope, capturing the hearts of players. Alongside this, players can also access Mercy’s Mythic weapon, Merciful Magitech, along with new Iridescent Aspects in the Mythic Shop.
Competitive Hero Bans Now Available
And finally, the much-awaited feature of banning heroes in Competitive Play ranked matches has arrived, adding a strategic layer to each match.
This article will be updated with more information as it becomes available.
FAQ – Overwatch 2 Season 16 Updates
What new features are included in Overwatch 2 Season 16?
Season 16 of Overwatch 2 introduces a new game mode called Stadium, a new hero named Freja, a fresh battle pass, and several exciting collaborations.
Who is the new hero Freja, and what are her abilities?
Freja is a bounty hunter who utilizes a crossbow for combat. Her abilities include rapid-fire bolts, an explosive shot, a quick dash ability, and an ultimate ability that ensnares enemies.
How many new skins will be available in the Season 16 battle pass?
Players can unlock eight new skins in the Season 16 battle pass, as well as additional skins available in the store throughout the season.
What is the Gundam collaboration in Overwatch 2 Season 16?
The Gundam collaboration celebrates the 30th anniversary of the franchise with themed skins, starting with a unique costume for Mercy.
What are the new Dokiwatch-themed skins in Overwatch 2 Season 16?
Dokiwatch-themed skins will be available for D.Va, Brigitte, Freja, Kiriko, Widowmaker, and Juno during Season 16.