One of the worst kept secrets leading up to BlizzCon 2019 was Overwatch 2, a fact that game director Jeff Kaplan poked fun at during the Opening Keynote. The game appears to be a mix of old and new, retaining the familiar PvP aspects while adding in cooperative modes, a new look for many of the heroes, and potentially adding in new mechanics which were previously cut.
In a recent interview, Overwatch 2 lead hero designer Geoff Goodman confirmed that at one point in development, the original Overwatch had a ping system similar to what players have now in Apex Legends. The team ultimately cut the feature prior to release, not finding it super helpful in moment to moment gameplay and replacing it with the current communication wheel.
While Goodman wouldn't fully commit to the ping system in the newly announced sequel, the new PvE cooperative story and hero missions does present a new opportunity. A system that promotes team coordination and communication without needing a microphone could be really handy when going up against constantly changing objectives and enemies.
The new PvE content also includes new mechanics including a progression system that lets players give their favorite heroes different or tweaked abilities. This system also allows for some customization, letting players swap out skills or different ability variations like a projectile for the melee focused character Genji. Thankfully, veteran Overwatch players won't have to start over in the sequel as any previously unlocked cosmetics, sprays, and other items will also transfer.
Overwatch 2 is currently in development for PC, PS4, and Xbox One.
Source: Gamespot