Overwatch 2 is undergoing significant changes to become more inclusive and accessible, according to game director Aaron Keller. These changes include the introduction of the Mythic shop, increased coin distribution, new and revamped maps, a fresh game mode, and, notably, free access to all heroes.
Beginning with Season 10, all heroes will be available for free upon release. This includes Venture, a new drill-wielding damage hero who represents the game’s first non-binary character. Additionally, all existing heroes will be immediately accessible to all players.
Previously, heroes were unlocked either by purchasing a premium battle pass or through extensive leveling of the free pass. While players will still need to complete the “first-time user experience” before accessing these heroes, this update significantly streamlines the process of trying out new characters.
Another major addition to Overwatch 2 is the Mythic Shop, which revolutionizes the acquisition of Mythic skins. Although Keller didn’t delve deeply into the new system in his announcement video, he provided more insight in a recent interview with GameSpot.
The Mythic Shop operates with a currency called Mythic Prisms, obtainable through purchase or by progressing through the premium battle pass. Each season, players will earn enough Mythic Prisms to unlock a Mythic skin of their choice, along with its associated upgrades, provided they complete their premium battle pass.
All new Mythic skins will debut in the Mythic Shop and remain purchasable throughout the season they’re introduced. Afterward, they’ll be temporarily removed from the shop for two seasons before returning permanently, adding a sense of urgency to obtain them. Starting from Season 10, all Mythic skins from Seasons 1 through 7 will be available for purchase alongside those featured in Season 10.
Coin distribution is also undergoing a significant change, with players now earning them through the free battle pass instead of weekly challenges. Each season, players can earn 600 coins for free—a 60-coin increase from the previous cap of 560. Keller highlighted that this allows players to obtain a premium battle pass for free every two seasons. Meanwhile, challenges will reward players with battle pass XP.
Furthermore, the development team is working on “significant updates” to maps like Dorado, Circuit Royale, Havana, Colosseo, and Numbani. A new game mode called Clash and the Hanaoka map will be introduced for a limited-time trial at the start of Season 10. Clash, described by Keller as a reworked version of Overwatch’s Assault mode, involves teams playing both offense and defense to capture points. In Season 11, the Peruvian map of Runasapi will join the Push mode.
Blizzard concluded the press release by announcing an upcoming developer update closer to the launch of Season 10, which is scheduled for April. The update will cover forthcoming competitive and Defense Matrix updates, addressing issues such as disruptive player behavior, grouping restrictions, competitive play, and player anonymity.
