It appears the changes inside Overwatch 2 to cosmetics and how players earn them are not sitting well with some in the community as some are suggesting Blizzard should bring back loot boxes only a few weeks after the game's release. Blizzard's changes came as part of an industry-wide shift away from loot boxes following years of blowback over the business model, though some games still employ it in some manner. However, as recent criticism shows, the decision is proving unpopular with some parts of the game's community due to Blizzard's implementation of the new cosmetics system.
The aforementioned changes made to Overwatch 2's reward and cosmetic system were implemented by Blizzard weeks before the game went live, officially removing loot boxes from the original Overwatch. In its place, players now have the option to purchase the game's battle pass for various cosmetic rewards and the new playable hero, Kiriko, while more cosmetics are available in the revamped in-game store. Players can purchase items, outright, or earn Overwatch Coins in-game to purchase items without using any actual currency.
That said, the price points have proven to be a sticking point for many players compounded by the amount of time needed to earn enough Overwatch Coins has resulted in some negative feedback. One such player is Reddit user LordNubFace, who posted their criticism of the current system on the game's subreddit and how it could be beneficial to bring back loot boxes to the game. LordNubFace also acknowledges their own belief that loot boxes "are a predatory practice" so, to get around that, loot boxes should just be an earnable item when completing matches or events.
LordNubFace's thoughts on the current system and bringing back loot boxes is one echoed by several other users who commented on the post. Some suggest paths players could earn loot boxes if Blizzard brought back loot boxes, such as making it a reward for completing six daily challenges or receiving one for every five levels unlocked on the game's battle pass.
Whether Blizzard makes the change or not, the negative feedback is yet another hit on a studio that has already faced repeated blowback in recent years for unpopular changes to its notable franchises and its workplace culture. The latter of the two has been the more prolific as the studio was hit with a lawsuit by the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing due to the alleged toxic workplace environment, sexual harassment, and sexual assault against several women in the studio. The lawsuit remains ongoing, while a second lawsuit is pending by an anonymous former employee at Activision Blizzard.
Overwatch 2 is currently available for Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
Source: Dexerto