Overwatch 2 is embracing a wave of nostalgia as its 6v6 playtest receives an extension, thanks to overwhelming player interest. Game director Aaron Keller confirmed the decision, marking a significant shift in how the game is perceived by its community.
Keller’s announcement on Twitter/X was met with widespread praise from fans who have long clamored for the return of the format that defined the original Overwatch.
Players have grown increasingly critical of the 5v5 format introduced with Overwatch 2, which replaced the beloved two-tank setup. Now, with the reintroduction of 6v6, the game seems to be recapturing its original charm.
A Return to Roots: 6v6 and Role Queue
Keller shared that the current 6v6 playtest, which features the classic 2-2-2 role queue, will continue until midseason. After that, an even more nostalgic format will take center stage: 6v6 open queue.
This shift has sparked excitement among long-time Overwatch players, many of whom fell in love with the game during its peak as a 6v6 experience. The 2-2-2 setup offered balance and structure, allowing for strategic depth that some feel was lost in the transition to 5v5.
Open Queue: A Bold Experiment
The upcoming open queue experiment could prove to be a game-changer. Unlike the structured role queue, open queue offers complete flexibility, letting players pick any combination of roles. This move might also serve as a counter to Marvel Rivals, a recent competitor in the hero shooter genre that has gained traction with its fully open 6v6 gameplay.
However, Marvel Rivals players have noted issues with open queue, particularly in ranked modes, where unbalanced teams often lead to frustration. Blizzard’s experiment may provide valuable insights into whether open queue can succeed in Overwatch 2 without replicating these pitfalls.
Tank Troubles in 5v5
One of the primary criticisms of 5v5 has been its impact on tank gameplay. The removal of the off-tank role fundamentally changed the dynamic of the game. Players have noted that certain tanks, like Roadhog, never felt suited for the solo tank role. Additionally, balancing tanks for 5v5 often resulted in overpowered heroes that could dominate matches with little counterplay.
Reintroducing 6v6 may resolve these issues by restoring the synergy between main and off-tank roles, adding more depth to team strategies and enhancing overall gameplay balance.
The Future of 6v6 in Overwatch 2
While it’s still early days for the 6v6 experiment, the extended playtest indicates a positive response from the community. Whether this mode will become a permanent feature remains to be seen, but it’s clear that Blizzard is listening to its players.
As the midseason update approaches, fans eagerly await the debut of 6v6 open queue and the potential it holds. For now, Overwatch 2 seems to be reliving its glory days, giving players a taste of what made the original so special.