Blizzard is introducing a new mode called Team Queue in Overwatch 2, allowing players to play competitive ranked games with their friends regardless of their individual ranks. To enter this mode, a full five-stack team is required, and each member can choose their role at the character screen. However, cross-platform play between PC and console players is still not allowed. Additionally, the game's first story mission is set to launch on August 10 for those seeking a more casual experience.
The midseason patch for Overwatch 2 Season 5 brings a plethora of balance changes, including buffs for heroes like Soldier: 76 and Wrecking Ball, and nerfs for Zenyatta and Symmetra. The patch also introduces the Summer Games event, featuring game modes like Lúcioball and Winston's Beach Volleyball. Additionally, a new Team Queue mini-season allows players to group up without rank restrictions. The patch notes also include bug fixes and improvements to various maps and heroes.
Overwatch 2 devs have confirmed that a tournament mode is on the table, but it will depend on the success of an upcoming team queue mode. The team will be monitoring the performance of the full premade five-stack team queue mode and if it proves popular, it could open the door for other types of competition in the game that are based on teams, including an internal tournament system.
