Overwatch director says ‘it’s fair’ to lock heroes behind the Battle Pass

OVERWATCH 2 is right around the corner, and big changes are coming to the game, including one that’s already managed to upset fans.

One of the most controversial decisions made by developer Blizzard is to lock heroes behind the Battle Pass, making them inaccessible to some players.

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The original Overwatch is popular with fans due to its roster of distinct heroes with very different skillsets. 

And if a character doesn’t work for you, you’re free to switch them up at any time. 

Similar games, like Apex Legends, do not let you change your character mid-game like Overwatch does.

This creates an interesting dynamic, where you can change up your heroes mid-play to counter your opponents.

However, in the sequel you will no longer be able to choose from the complete roster of characters.

Instead, players will have to complete the challenges on the free Battle Pass in order to unlock new characters.

The Battle Pass contains over 80 levels, and new players will have to complete 55 levels before they can unlock the new hero, Kiriko.

This is in part to encourage players to purchase the Premium Battle Pass to unlock the character immediately.

Speaking to GLHF, game director Aaron Keller defends the decision, saying: “We believe that, even with this change, Overwatch remains a highly competitive game. 

“Internally, we have talked about this topic over the past year as much as, if not more than, any other topic that’s involved with the game.

“And we think it’s fair and still allows Overwatch to retain its competitive nature.” 

He added that veteran Overwatch players will be able to use Kiriko from the game’s launch.

This decision was made so that Blizzard can balance the new hero before it is available to the majority of the playerbase.

He said: “This, I believe, evens the playing field at the start of a season.”

Players will be able to judge the changes for themselves when Overwatch 2 launches October 4, 2022.

Written by Georgina Young on behalf of GLHF.

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