Overwatch 2 PvP Public Closed Beta Coming In April, Will Include New Hero Sojourn And Four New Maps

Game Director Aaron Keller promises better communication and more frequent updates.

Jason Winter
By Jason Winter, News Editor
Share:

Overwatch 2 Banner

It's been 84 years (roughly) since we last got any news about Overwatch 2 from Blizzard. The long silence ended today, as Blizzard opened up applications to try out the game's PvP, which will be available in beta form next month, as well as making several more announcements regarding the game's state and what players can anticipate over the coming months.

In a video blog accompanying the announcement, Game Director Aaron Keller admitted that communication and visible work on the game has been non-existent over the past year-plus, bluntly stating that "we've let you down when it comes to delivering Overwatch content." He said that his team is "committed to more continual updates on all things Overwatch 2," which is something developers have said many times after they've gone radio silent, only to issue one update and then go dark again for an extended period of time. Maybe that won't be the case here, but it will take more than reassuring words to make that point valid.

Note: Activision Blizzard is still under investigation by the state of California for serious harassment charges. CEO Bobby Kotick is alleged to have known about such actions within his company – and performed some himself – and shielded the perpetrators from consequences.

Today's news, at least, does fill that void. PvP and PvE will be "decoupled," so that the PvP part of the game can arrive sooner -- a much-needed change, since the Overwatch League starts in just under two months and will be using Overwatch 2. In addition to the previously announced changes, such as a 5v5 format, new "Push" mode, and hero changes, a "ping" system will also be added to the game.

An alpha for Overwatch 2 PvP is underway now, limited to Blizzard employees and "key partners," like Overwatch League pros. The first closed beta will take part in late April, and you can sign up for it by following this link. More public PvP betas will come later in the year, offering new features, maps, and heroes.

Overwatch 2 Beta Features

Share:
Got a news tip? Contact us directly here!


About the Author

Jason Winter
Jason Winter, News Editor
Jason Winter is a veteran gaming journalist, he brings a wide range of experience to MMOBomb, including two years with Beckett Media where he served as the editor of the leading gaming magazine Massive Online Gamer. He has also written professionally for several gaming websites.

Discussion (0)


Read Next

ArenaNet Makes It Easier To Get Your Siege Turtle In Guild Wars 2

ArenaNet Makes It Easier To Get Your Siege Turtle In Guild Wars 2

Final meta-event boss has been slightly nerfed, and an alternate vendor will sell you your egg.

By Jason Winter - 1 year ago

You May Enjoy

Neverwinter’s Latest Module “Menzoberranzan” Is Available On PC And Consoles Today

Neverwinter’s Latest Module “Menzoberranzan” Is Available On PC And Consoles Today

Explore the legendary City of Spiders.

By QuintLyn Bowers - 4 days ago
The Elder Scrolls Online: Scribes Of Fate DLC Lands On Consoles Today

The Elder Scrolls Online: Scribes Of Fate DLC Lands On Consoles Today

Two new dungeons and more now on your console of choice.

By Troy Blackburn - 4 days ago
After Delays And Hiccups, Star Wars: The Old Republic Update 7.2.1 Is Live

After Delays And Hiccups, Star Wars: The Old Republic Update 7.2.1 Is Live

Galactic Season 4 and PvP Season 2 are a go.

By Troy Blackburn - 3 days ago
Top 10 MMORPGs With Player Housing In 2023

💣 Feature | Top 10 MMORPGs With Player Housing In 2023

Buy a house and decorate until your heart is content.

By Troy Blackburn - 1 week ago
Standing Stone Games Offers A Big List Of Dungeons & Dragons Online's Quest Packs For Free

Standing Stone Games Offers A Big List Of Dungeons & Dragons Online's Quest Packs For Free

The freebies are a thank you from the developer.

By QuintLyn Bowers - 5 days ago
Sus Out The Traitor As Social Deduction Game "DUBIUM" Hits Open Beta

Sus Out The Traitor As Social Deduction Game "DUBIUM" Hits Open Beta

Sus out the traitor, escape to survive.

By Troy Blackburn - 4 days ago