It's only 24 hours before the closed beta for Overwatch 2 begins!
Players will get the chance to experience the Doomfist rework in addition to a selection of maps that will appear in the full release.
Blizzard is changing release plans for Overwatch 2. Announced three years ago, Overwatch's anticipated successor has promised new changes to PvP, like reduced team sizes, and a new PvE mode is joining it. Now, we're getting a closer look at PvP next month.
Arriving as a closed beta - which was previously rumoured - Blizzard released a new update with game director Aaron Keller, which confirmed:
We are changing our release strategy by decoupling Overwatch 2’s PvP and PvE experiences from one another to get new PvP content into your hands sooner, while we continue to work on PvE.
So, anyone hoping to try PvE will need to wait. However, because it's a closed PvP beta, this doesn't guarantee everyone who applies will be granted access. If you're looking to try out Overwatch 2 early, here's what we've heard.
Overwatch 2 PvP Closed Beta - Release Date and Times
Blizzard confirmed that Overwatch 2's beta goes live on April 26, 2022 across select regions and before you ask, we don't know which regions, either. You can sign up on PlayOverwatch.com, and players will gain access in phases.
Interestingly, Blizzard confirmed this is only the first beta, so we can expect more as time progresses. We'll keep you updated as we learn more.
Overwatch 2 PvP Closed Beta - Platforms
Similar to the first game, Overwatch 2 is currently expected to launch on PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. However, for this PvP Closed Beta, that's only available for PC players.
Overwatch 2 PvP Closed Beta - What Can I Play?
As outlined in a community blog post, the PvP closed beta offers access to these aspects of Overwatch 2.
- 5v5
- New Hero: Sojourn
- New Maps - Circuit Royal (Escort), Midtown (Hybrid), New Queen Street (Push), Colosseo (Push)
- New Mode: Push
- Hero Reworks - Orisa, Doomfist, Bastion, Sombra
- New Ping System
That's all there is to know about the Overwatch 2 beta. Be sure to check back regularly for all the latest information surrounding Blizzard's upcoming hero shooter.