Overwatch 2 producer Jared Neuss has defended the Winter Wonderland event pass rewards and pricing, stating that the $5 cost for 4 Legendary skins aligns with the holiday spirit. Neuss acknowledged player feedback and explained that the intention was to provide players with a choice of rewards during the event, but it remains to be seen if the fear of missing out (FOMO) will overshadow this benefit. Many players were disappointed as they expected to unlock all skins with the purchase of the event pass.
The Winter Wonderland patch for Overwatch 2 introduces a limited-time special Battle Pass and Christmas-themed cosmetics, but faces backlash for not allowing players to unlock everything. The patch also includes balance changes for Mauga, with his health reduced but armor increased. His Incendiary Chaingun shots needed to ignite foes have been increased, but spread decreased when only one gun is active. Additionally, the overhealth conversion rate for his Berserker ability has been buffed.
Winter Wonderland is returning to Overwatch 2 on December 19, bringing back favorite event modes like Mei's Snowball Offensive, Yeti Hunt, and Freeze-Flash Elimination. Players can earn bonus XP for the Season 8 Battle Pass by completing challenges in these modes. The Winter Fair introduces the Winter Fair Event Pass, allowing players to unlock holiday-themed rewards by earning tickets through gameplay. The pass includes a free track with a choice of one legendary skin and a premium track with additional legendary skins and cosmetic items. Limited-time cosmetics can be purchased with earned tickets, which will convert to Overwatch Credits after January 15. New skins will also be available in the in-game shop, including Formalwear Legendary skins and holiday remixes. Players who log in during Winter Wonderland will receive a new player icon.
Overwatch 2's Winter Wonderland event is returning with new Legendary skins for heroes and the introduction of the Winter Fair Event Pass, which has a free track and a separate paid track. Players can earn tickets by playing games to unlock holiday-themed rewards, with the premium track offering all four Legendary skins and other cosmetics. The event will also feature the return of four Arcade game modes and runs from Dec. 19 to Jan. 16.
Overwatch 2's eighth season introduces Mauga, a new tank hero, with buffs to improve his survivability and effectiveness. The patch also includes updates such as the Battle of the Beasts PvPvE mode, Winter Wonderland event, buyable weapon skins, tweaks to Competitive MMR decay, and new Hero Mastery courses. Other hero changes include adjustments to Doomfist, Junker Queen, Ramattra, Sigma, Winston, Mei, Soldier: 76, Sombra, Torbjörn, Tracer, Baptiste, Brigitte, and Kiriko. Various bug fixes and map updates are also included in the patch.
NYC's Pier 17 has been transformed into an immersive winter wonderland inspired by Disney's "The Santa Clauses." The rooftop venue features a skating rink, cozy dining cabins, a wintry walk-through experience, and photo opportunities with Santa Claus. The event promises to be "bigger and better" this year and will run until January 7, 2024. Tickets start at $25/person, with a free general admission day on November 28.
Minneapolis-Saint Paul experienced one of the biggest Halloween snowfalls in over 30 years, with over 2.5 inches of snow overnight. This is the largest Halloween snowstorm since 1991 when 8.2 inches of snow fell. The streets were covered in a mix of Halloween decorations and snow, causing icy conditions and numerous accidents. The forecast predicts clearing skies and temperatures dropping to a low of 24 degrees.
