Overwatch 2 game director Aaron Keller has shared his latest blog post, detailing the upcoming balance changes and hero updates for the game’s midseason patch.
The patch, which is expected to go live next week, will affect roughly half of the heroes in the roster, as well as the Damage role passive, which reduces the healing received by Damage heroes by 20%.
Keller explained that the passive was designed to push Damage heroes to the forefront of a fight, but admitted that it may have gone too far, making some heroes feel too vulnerable or bursty. Therefore, the passive will be toned down to 15% in the next patch, which should make the game more balanced and enjoyable.
Among the hero updates, Keller highlighted a few notable ones, such as a significant buff to Ana’s biotic grenade, which will increase its damage and healing from 60 to 90 health, giving her more self-sustainability and impact.
Another hero that will receive a buff is Lifeweaver, the new Support hero introduced in Season 9. His maximum heal will increase from 70 to 80, and his maximum charge will increase from 1 to 1.15 seconds, enhancing his healing burst potential.
Keller also teased some other changes, such as adjustments to Reinhardt’s shield, Doomfist’s punch, and Widowmaker’s scope, but did not reveal the exact numbers. He said that the full patch notes will be released in a few days, and encouraged players to share their feedback on the changes.
In today’s Director’s Take, Game Director @aaronkellerOW takes an in-depth look at the Hero updates coming in the mid-season patch notes and goes over the next Quick Play: Hacked, Double Trouble 💥
📝 https://t.co/JXuEsDAJUj pic.twitter.com/QyAi4CB7xr
— Overwatch (@PlayOverwatch) March 7, 2024
The midseason patch is part of the ongoing Season 9 of Overwatch 2, which launched in February with some major changes to the game, such as the introduction of the Clash mode, the new Tank hero Mauga, and the revamped health and armor system.
Keller said that the changes made this season were based largely on player feedback, and that the team is happy with how they have shifted the game, but still wants to improve some areas and keep the game fresh and fun.
He also thanked the players for their support and passion, and promised to keep them updated on the game’s development and future plans.
Overwatch 2 is the sequel to the critically acclaimed team-based shooter Overwatch, which was released in 2016. The game features stunning graphics, fluid gameplay, and an immersive story that expands the Overwatch universe.
The game is exclusive to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, and is compatible with PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. It has received rave reviews from critics and players alike, and has a loyal and active fanbase.
The game is currently in its ninth season, which will end on April 30. The next season is expected to bring more new content and features, such as new heroes, maps, events, and skins.