A new hero balance patch has been released for Overwatch 2, introducing essential changes aimed at revitalizing the current meta.
This update features a mix of nerfs and buffs, as Blizzard Entertainment seeks to create a more balanced gameplay experience in the final weeks of season 15 before the introduction of the new Damage hero Freja and additional content in season 16, set to launch on April 22.
Here’s a comprehensive overview of every hero adjustment now available in OW2.
Overwatch 2 Patch Notes – March 25
Tank Hero Changes
Mauga
- Cardiac Overdrive
- No longer provides allies with damage reduction.
- Cage Fight
- Ultimate cost increased by 8%.
- Barrier health reduced from 1500 to 1200 HP.
- Berserker Passive
- Overhealth conversion rate reduced from 50% to 40%.
These substantial nerfs hit Mauga hard, especially the change to Cardiac Overdrive, his primary means of team protection.
Roadhog
- Take a Breather
- Maximum healing increased from 400 to 450.
- Whole Hog
- Ultimate cost reduced by 12%.
Roadhog’s updated stats may help him align better with other frontline heroes in OW2.
Winston
- Primal Rage
- Ultimate cost increased by 10%.
Winston’s anger has been dialed back slightly.
Zarya
- Energy
- Degeneration rate increased from 2 to 2.5 per second.
Zarya remains a formidable tank in OW2, and while this change seems minor, it may impact her effectiveness over time.
Damage Hero Adjustments
Cassidy
- Peacekeeper
- Primary fire falloff range increased from 20 to 25 meters.
- Secondary fire damage boosted from 45 to 50.
Cassidy receives a welcomed buff, enhancing his damage potential at both range and close quarters.
Echo
- Base health reduced from 225 to 150.
- Shield health increased from 0 to 75.
Echo’s health changes grant her more survivability when she needs to escape the fray.
Soldier: 76
- Heavy Pulse Rifle
- Primary fire now utilizes a larger projectile size of 0.07 meters.
A slight enhancement for Soldier: 76, allowing his bullets to have a larger hitbox.
Sojourn
- Power Slide
- Cooldown extended from 7 to 8 seconds.
- Maximum duration decreased from 1.2 to 1 second.
Sojourn’s mobility has been slightly hindered, necessitating more strategic decision-making in combat.
Widowmaker
- Base health increased from 200 to 225 HP.
This minor buff to Widowmaker’s health should help her survive a bit longer in battles, though she remains vulnerable to one-shot headshots in mirror matches.
Support Hero Updates
Ana
- Biotic Grenade
- Cooldown increased from 12 to 14 seconds for non-6v6 game modes.
- Cooldown increased from 10 to 12 seconds for 6v6 game modes.
- Shrike
- Self-Nano Boost duration reduced from 8 to 6 seconds.
Changes to Ana’s Biotic Grenade should reduce her oppressive presence in battles, making for a more balanced gaming experience.
Juno
- Orbital Ray
- Ultimate cost increased by 10%.
Juno’s ultimate ability should now be heard slightly less frequently, allowing for a more dynamic gameplay experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about Overwatch 2 Patch Notes
What are the latest changes in Overwatch 2?
The latest patch for Overwatch 2 introduced key changes to various heroes including buffs and nerfs to enhance gameplay balance. Notable adjustments include nerfs to Mauga, buffs for Cassidy, and cooldown increases for Ana’s abilities.
When is season 16 of Overwatch 2 starting?
Season 16 of Overwatch 2 is set to launch on April 22, featuring the new Damage hero Freja and other exciting content.
How do the hero changes affect the meta?
The latest hero balance changes aim to shift the current meta, making gameplay more enjoyable and competitive. For instance, the nerfs to powerful characters like Mauga are expected to level the playing field while boosts for heroes like Cassidy will enhance their viability in battle.
What is the impact of the patch on gameplay?
The impact of the patch is significant as it affects how players approach strategy and tactics in Overwatch 2. Players will need to adapt to the new dynamics, as changes can alter hero effectiveness and team compositions.