Overwatch has undergone numerous transformations since its debut in 2016, evolving through various updates, patches, and gameplay adjustments. These changes have significantly influenced the dynamics of the game and the strategies players use.
As the strengths and weaknesses of different heroes fluctuate, distinct metas emerge. With the introduction of Overwatch 2’s Overwatch Classic arcade mode, Blizzard Entertainment revives beloved past metas, allowing veteran players to relive nostalgic moments while inviting newcomers to experience these classic styles (for better or worse).
One of the standout throwback modes is Overwatch Classic: GOATS. Here, we delve into its significance, origins, and everything you need to know.
Understanding GOATS in Overwatch
Overwatch Classic: GOATS is a limited-time mode that harkens back to 2018, a time when the six-vs-six team composition dominated with three tanks and three supports. This nostalgic mode brings back the original abilities and hero pool, allowing players to recreate this iconic team setup, while Damage heroes are optional but not prioritized.
The term “GOATS” derives from a competitive team that popularized this composition during Overwatch Open Division’s second season in 2018. The dominance of the GOATS meta soon permeated competitive play, leading to its establishment as a defining strategy. This mode invites players to experience that era once again, featuring six-vs-six matches, no perks, and all the nuances that have changed over the past seven years.
In this context, “GOAT” stands for “Greatest of All Time,” a title the team adopted despite the challenges their meta posed to players. Now, this strategy returns in the Overwatch 2 landscape, serving as a unique glimpse into a transformative period in gaming history.
A typical GOATS composition included heroes like Moira, Lucio, and Brigitte as healers, alongside D.Va, Zarya, and Reinhardt as tanks, creating a robust team that was hard to eliminate due to its abundance of health, healing, and crowd-control abilities.
Brigitte’s Legendary Goat skin serves as a tribute to this historic meta, especially for newer players who may not grasp the impact of this composition. Players can relive the sensation of playing the GOATS meta during Overwatch Classic while it lasts.
The first iteration of Overwatch 2’s Overwatch Classic: GOATS is available to play from March 25 through April 8, with the potential for future returns in the Arcade.
FAQ: Common Questions About Overwatch Classic: GOATS
What does GOATS mean in Overwatch?
GOATS stands for “Greatest of All Time.” It refers to a team composition of three tanks and three supports that became dominant in competitive Overwatch play during 2018.
When can I play Overwatch Classic: GOATS?
The Overwatch Classic: GOATS mode will be playable from March 25 to April 8, with possibilities for future returns in the Arcade.
Why is GOATS so powerful?
GOATS is considered powerful due to its composition of multiple tanks providing substantial health and survivability, combined with supports that offer high levels of healing and crowd control.
What heroes are included in the GOATS composition?
A typical GOATS composition features Moira, Lucio, and Brigitte as healers, complemented by D.Va, Zarya, and Reinhardt as tanks.
How did the GOATS meta affect Overwatch gameplay?
The GOATS meta significantly altered the competitive landscape of Overwatch, pushing players to adapt to its uniquely powerful composition, which dominated various competitive matches.