Blizzard Entertainment is set to shake up Overwatch 2 with the launch of a new game mode, Stadium, this week, introducing a fresh take on team play. Scheduled for Tuesday, this mode significantly alters traditional gameplay dynamics and unveils exciting new abilities for the heroes. Players will also have the option to switch to a third-person camera perspective, and the standard hero-switching mechanic will be removed, enabling heroes to wield transformative new powers—Reinhardt can even fly now!
Aaron Keller, the game director for Overwatch 2, describes Stadium as a transformative addition—not merely a new mode but a fundamental pillar of the hero shooter, existing alongside Quick Play and Competitive modes. The development team is dedicated to this new direction, with Keller revealing that a distinct team is entirely focused on enhancing Stadium. This mode will kick off with 17 playable heroes, with more being added each season, along with unique Stadium-specific maps and gameplay variations.
"We are fully committed to providing the same level of support for Stadium as we do for the rest of the game," Keller stated.
The concept of Stadium has been in the pipeline for several years, even before the release of Overwatch 2 in 2022. Keller noted that the intention behind this mode is to facilitate a more strategic gameplay experience, allowing players to strategize their hero selections during breaks between rounds. “The attraction of playing a hero shooter lies in the power fantasy of embodying a character, and Stadium brings that fantasy to new heights,” he remarked.
The Stadium mode is designed around a round-based, best-of-seven format. Before each round, players can spend a unique currency—Stadium Cash—on items that enhance existing abilities or unlock entirely new ones. Early in the game, heroes receive modified abilities that can increase damage or healing, or reduce cooldowns. As matches continue, players collect more Stadium Cash to unleash even wilder powers, including the capability for Reinhardt to ascend while charging.
Other heroes enjoy equally imaginative upgrades. For instance, Ana can grant a Nano Boost to her entire team or launch her Nano Boost dart through walls. Moira can shoot “multiball” orbs, while Mei can transform into a giant ice ball. Kiriko has the unique ability to conjure a clone of herself while teleporting to an ally using Swift Step.
These purchasable powers serve as a substitute for hero-swapping, requiring teams to commit to their character choices from the outset of a game. If a team includes a Genji, for example, he can acquire abilities that counter threats like Zarya or Symmetra. As teams accumulate items and powers, the game can become chaotic, but this also amplifies the fun.
Stadium’s initial roster features classic characters such as Reinhardt, Soldier: 76, Genji, Reaper, and Zarya. Fan-favorites like Tracer and Hanzo will debut in subsequent seasons. Fresh characters include Juno, Kiriko, and Freja—the newest addition to the damage class—who will make her debut on April 22 with the arrival of season 16.
While the complete hero roster for Overwatch 2 is expected to be incorporated into Stadium, this process demands significant effort. Senior game designer Dylan Snyder and lead level designer Ryan Smith highlighted the challenges of developing unique powers for each hero and ensuring balanced gameplay. Certain characters, like Mercy, present considerable risks for modification due to their powerful abilities, while high-mobility heroes like D.Va require careful adaptation as well.
Keller mentioned that extensive alpha testing with thousands of players has helped identify and resolve balance issues within Stadium. For instance, adjustments were necessary for Cassidy’s Fan the Hammer ability after encountering issues with its effectiveness in skilled hands.
As with other modes in Overwatch 2, players can expect a swift response to any balance problems and the introduction of new items and abilities to maintain gameplay integrity. “I anticipate a significant portion of our player base will migrate to Stadium,” Keller noted, anticipating enthusiastic engagement with the new mode.
Overwatch 2 will be available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X, with the Stadium mode launching across all platforms on April 22.
