Overwatch's role queue system has proven to be quite controversial since it was implemented in the hero-shooter last year. While some players have praised it for ensuring a better balanced gameplay experience, it has caused some unforeseen issues, particularly when it comes to finding matches online. Damage players have especially long wait times under the Overwatch role queue system, and now Blizzard is looking at one possible way to fix it.
In an update releasing on February 25 (barring any last minute delays), Overwatch will introduce a new version of Experimental Mode: Triple Damage. Experimental Mode allows Overwatch players to test dramatic changes to the game that Blizzard is confident enough to put in the PTR or implement in the full game itself. Experimental Mode: Triple Damage will test a new Overwatch role queue dynamic that will consist of 3 Damage heroes, 2 Support heroes, and 1 Tank. This 3-2-1 setup will theoretically cut down on wait times and ensure that Overwatch players are getting into games faster.
Overwatch game director Jeff Kaplan announced the Experimental Mode: Triple Damage release date in the most recent Developer Update video. In the video, he also addressed the concern about how off-tanks will perform in this 3-2-1 setup. When playing the Experimental Mode, Overwatch players will notice significant balance changes made to off-tanks like Roadhog and D.Va that will attempt to make them more viable as solo tanks.
Before fans get too worked up about the drastic changes that Experimental Mode: Triple Damage will introduce, they should note that Quick Play and Competitive Play will not be affected at all. Both modes will retain the 2-2-2 setup and current character balance. Eventually, if this 3-2-1 setup proves to be more popular than 2-2-2, it's possible that these changes will make it to the PTR and full game, but that remains to be seen.
Overwatch players should really think of Experimental Mode as the third pillar of the core Overwatch experience. Just like Quick Play and Competitive Play, Experimental Mode allows players to unlock level up, earn event rewards, and more.
Speaking of events, the new Overwatch Developer Update from Kaplan had no mention of the leaked Mardis Gras event, but with Mardi Gras starting on February 25, one has to imagine that more information will come sooner rather than later.
Overwatch is out now for PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbo xOne.