A major transformation is on the horizon for Overwatch 2 as Season 18 launches on August 26. With a new hero poised to make his debut, players can expect significant balance changes across the board, especially regarding Perks, Stadium Items, and Powers. Also returning this season is the Summer Games 2025, alongside Junkrat’s Loot Hunt event in September to celebrate the occasion.
Let’s dive into what awaits in OW2 for the upcoming season.
1. Overwatch 2 Patch Notes – Season 18
This patch is packed with exciting updates for OW2, including the introduction of a new hero and a substantial overhaul of many of the Perks that were rolled out in previous seasons.
2. Meet the New Support Hero – Wuyang
Wuyang, the latest hero with water abilities, is set to enrich the gameplay experience. Here’s a breakdown of his skillset:
| Ability | Description | Input |
|---|---|---|
| Xuanwu Staff (Primary Fire) | Fire a damaging water orb. Hold to control its trajectory and empower its explosion. | LMB |
| Restorative Stream (Alternate Fire) | Place a passive healing stream on an ally. Hold on the target to manually heal at an improved rate, consuming resource. | RMB |
| Guardian Wave | Send a water wave forward that increases healing received by allies while knocking back enemies. | E |
| Rushing Torrent | Ride water to enhance speed and jump height. | LShift |
| Tidal Blast (Ultimate) | Protect an ally or yourself with water that detonates after a short duration, knocking down enemies and healing the host target significantly. | Q |
3. Fresh Perks to Explore
In Season 18, many heroes will see their previous Perks swapped out, allowing for innovative combinations to enhance gameplay strategies. Here are some notable new Perks:
Tank
- D.Va: Precision Fusion – Reload to reduce Fusion Cannon’s spread by 75 percent for 3 seconds.
- Doomfist: Aftershock – Enemies hit by Seismic Slam are slowed by 30 percent for 1.5 seconds.
- Orisa: Defense Protocol – Regenerate 100 health per second while charging Terra Surge.
Damage
- Cassidy: Silver Bullet – Peacekeeper’s secondary fire becomes a piercing shot that inflicts bleeding.
- Sojourn: Friction Generators – While sliding, Power Slide generates up to 50 energy.
- Genji: Swift Cuts – Quick Melee reduces Swift Strike’s cooldown by 3 seconds.
Support
- Ana: Speed Serum – Nano Boost grants a 40 percent movement speed boost to both Ana and her target.
- Mercy: Divine Momentum – Increases speed by 15 percent after canceling Guardian Angel.
- Moira: Phantom Step – Fade lasts 0.5 seconds longer and boosts jump height by 50 percent.
4. Stadium Mode Enhancements
The Stadium mode is receiving major updates, including the introduction of Quick Play, a new game type called Payload Race, and three new maps: Powder Keg Mines, Thames District, and Oasis Gardens. Plus, expect to see Winston, Brigitte, and Pharah join the fray, with Tracer arriving later in the season.
5. Roadhog’s Revamp
Roadhog is set for another revamp, with changes returning him to his classic dual-firing kit. Key changes include:
- Updated Scrap Gun functionality to revert to classic form.
- Increased projectile count while slightly reducing damage per pellet.
- Removal of the Pig Pen ability.
These changes offer players an exciting chance to explore Roadhog’s updated abilities.
6. Advanced Info Panel for Tactical Insights
Get ready for the Advanced Info Panel, which delivers critical gameplay stats like damage numbers, healing output, and cooldowns. This feature will allow players to enhance their strategies and gameplay skills.
7. Hero Progression 2.0
Season 18 introduces a complete overhaul of hero progression, focusing on rewarding player investment with cosmetic items, skill representations, and prestige levels.
What are the major changes in the gameplay for Overwatch 2 Season 18?
Season 18 brings a new hero, server-wide balance adjustments, and new gameplay modes within Stadium. Keep an eye on these developments to elevate your gaming experience.
How does the new hero Wuyang impact the game?
Wuyang’s introduction emphasizes team support through unique abilities that enhance healing and mobility, shaking up team compositions across various playstyles.
What is included in the revamped stadium mode?
Season 18’s stadium mode now includes the Quick Play format, new maps, and additional heroes, which will add more fun and competitive energy to matches.
When do the new changes go live?
The full spectrum of changes goes live on August 26 at 1 PM CT, making it essential for players to prepare for exciting new content.
How can I stay updated on Overwatch 2’s developments?
Follow the official OW2 website for the latest patch notes and updates.
As you gear up for Season 18, don’t hesitate to explore more content on Moyens I/O for tips and strategies to maximize your gameplay!