Breakdown
- Overwatch 2 Season 10 introduced a new system allowing players of different ranks to queue together for ranked matches.
- This "wide group" system has resulted in excruciatingly long queue times, exceeding 12 hours in some cases.
- Popular streamers and high-ranked players are abandoning ranked mode due to the wait times.
Overwatch 2's tenth season launched with a bang, introducing the free-to-play hero Venture and a long-awaited feature: ranked play with friends with different ranks! However, this excitement has been cut short for many high-ranked players due to excruciatingly long queue times, exceeding 12 hours in some cases.
The problem seems to be the new 'wide group' matchmaking system that was implemented to allow players of different ranks to queue together. This, however, is a community request that comes at a price. Wide groups are only matched against other wide groups, leading to a smaller pool of potential opponents and significantly longer wait times.
Popular streamers and high-level players are abandoning competitive matches altogether. Social media is flooded with tweets showcasing frustrations, with players switching to other games while waiting in queue. One streamer even managed to win a game of Fortnite during their Overwatch 2 queue time!
While Blizzard warned about longer queues for wide groups, the current situation seems far worse than anticipated. Even players sticking to their own ranks are reporting longer wait times.
This is a frustrating blow for many Overwatch 2 fans who have long yearned for the ability to play competitively with friends for years. Previously, the ranked system restricted group members to similar ranks, leaving players with friends in higher tiers out of luck.
The current situation forces players to choose between playing competitively and playing with friends. While some may opt for the quicker queues of solo play, the social aspect of playing with friends is a major draw for many players.
Overwatch 2 Season 10 isn't all bad news. The new damage hero Venture has been well-received, and the upcoming Mirrorwatch event with its villainous hero reimaginings has generated excitement. However, the queue time debacle threatens to overshadow these positive aspects.
Hopefully, Blizzard can address the matchmaking issues and find a way to balance fair competition with reasonable queue times. Otherwise, Overwatch 2 may risk losing an important chunk of its high-ranked player base.
Since you’re here have a look at Overwatch 2 Season 10 - everything you need to know.