Overwatch 2’s Perk System: A Success with Potential for Improvement

Since its release in late 2022, Overwatch 2 has been striving to prove itself as a worthy successor to its renowned 2016 counterpart. The developers have worked tirelessly to bring fresh content over the seasons to set this sequel apart. While players have been treated to new game modes, maps, and an array of fresh heroes, some of the more ambitious undertakings, like the much-anticipated PvE campaign, have regrettably been shelved.

One of the more significant changes in Overwatch 2 has been the switch to 5v5 team battles, a move that has sparked much debate among players. Blizzard has also introduced a game-changing perk system, revamping the core mechanics of the game. This new system has captured the interest of die-hard fans, intrigued by how these perks can influence team dynamics and enhance the unique abilities of Overwatch’s varied heroes. Yet, there’s still considerable room for growth, like the potential introduction of a third level of perk unlocks that might add an exciting twist to Overwatch 2’s more drawn-out matches.

This revamp, known as Honor and Glory, was added in February and became a cornerstone of the game’s 15th season. Originally conceived as part of the controversially abandoned PvE campaign, the perk system has found its place within the standard player-versus-player battles. Now, players begin each match with a level one hero, earning experience points through impactful gameplay to progress to a maximum of level three. Upon reaching the second level, players can select from a couple of minor perks, each offering unique enhancements to certain abilities.

With over 150 perks available across all heroes, the possibilities are vast, and Blizzard is poised to expand this selection even further. This progression system personalizes gameplay, culminating at level three with a major perk that can drastically change a hero’s battlefield role. Currently, perks serve as a fantastic way to reward skillful play, creating an engaging parallel race alongside charging ultimate abilities. Introducing a fourth level with exclusive perks could be the natural progression for this evolving system.

Envisioning a fourth level of perks is particularly exciting for those nail-biting matches that extend into overtime. Often, games don’t allow enough time for players to progress beyond level three. However, unlocking a game-changing “ultimate perk” at level four could add a thrilling new dimension to late-game strategies, focusing on pivotal aspects like zone control and respawn timing.

While potentially disruptive in ranked play, where perks reset each round, the addition of a fourth tier could inject new excitement into unranked matches that drag on for lengthy periods. With the perk experience rate doubling after seven minutes, reaching this hypothetical level four could become an attainable and exhilarating goal in marathon matches, thereby elevating player freedom and pushing the already well-received perk system to its limits.