The design goals for Overwatch 2 have been a point of question for fans of the online multiplayer shooter. In many regards, Overwatch 2 appears to be very similar to the original game. That's not without intent, as Blizzard wants to build on Overwatch without reinventing it. The opportunity allows Blizzard to revisit key aspects of the game, however. One of the biggest examples reveals so far is the removal of the Assault, often referred to as 2CP (two capture point), PvP mode. But the most recent revelation is the addition of a new, secret mode to replace it.
On Friday, Blizzard revealed Overwatch 2's PvP gameplay for the first time. An extended video showed multiple different matches, with a variety of maps and characters featured. During the first session of gameplay, Overwatch 2 director Aaron Keller talked about why 2CP didn't work and what would be replacing it. There are two new modes coming in PvP. The first is Push, featuring a single robot traveling back and forth to push opposing barricades. The second mode is currently unannounced.
Details about the new mode are entirely unknown. Keller and the rest of the Blizzard team taking part in the event made it clear that this wasn't the event where the new Overwatch 2 mode would be revealed. There was some discussion about PvP modes prioritizing a controlled pacing that drives the action, but that's clearly ambiguous enough to be unhelpful. The one thing Blizzard did say is that Overwatch fans can expect more information "soon."
While Blizzard didn't confirm an exact source for the new map's reveal, just saying "soon" is going to create a lot of speculation surrounding summer events. Blizzard is already confirmed to be involved with Geoff Keighley's Summer Game Fest. That could mean news during the Summer Game Fest kick-off show on June 10 or a separate Blizzard event to follow. There's also E3 2021 starting June 12, but Blizzard typically forgoes E3 for its own events.
The addition of the secret Overwatch 2 mode brings the game's total PvP modes to five. There's the secret mode and Push that are both new additions. Then there's the return of Control, Escort, and Hybrid. 2CP is the one mode that won't be returning.
There's a lot left for Blizzard to reveal about Overwatch 2 and it's still very early for the developer to be sharing information. After all, Overwatch 2 isn't expected to launch in 2021. Just the confirmation that Overwatch 2 is 5v5 is enough to shake up the competitive scene. It's exciting to consider what might be announced next.
Overwatch 2 is currently in development for PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One.