The 12th season of Overwatch 2 arrived on August 20, 2024 bringing new content to the popular team-based shooter game. This season introduces Juno, a new Support hero from Mars, and two maps for the Clash game mode. Now that the season has been in full swing it’s time for a mid-season patch, currently scheduled for release on September 17, 2024. This patch is setup to rebalance the game’s meta. Tanks, especially D.Va, are targeted for nerfs, and Sombra’s stealth ability might be toned down.
The Clash mode will also undergo improvements for fairness and clarity. The new season starts on September 17th and promises a revitalized Overwatch 2 experience with over 80 tiers of rewards in the Battle Pass, including Mythic Prisms for the Anubis Reaper Hero Skin. A space theme runs throughout the season, expanding the game’s lore and offering more ways to engage with favorite characters.
Mid-Season Shakeup: Overwatch 2 Season 12 Patch Notes Preview
Overwatch 2 fans, get ready for some significant changes! The mid-season patch for Season 12 is set to drop on September 17th, bringing with it a wave of hero balance adjustments and gameplay tweaks. Let’s dive into the key points of this upcoming update.
Tanking the Heat: Nerfs to Tank Survivability
The developers have their sights set on tank heroes, particularly D.Va, whose survivability is perceived as too high in the current meta. Expect to see nerfs that make these beefy heroes a little less invincible, encouraging more strategic play and creating opportunities for counterplay.
Sombra Stealth Nerf: Less Time in the Shadows
Sombra, the elusive hacker, might find herself spending less time in stealth. The patch is likely to reduce the duration of her stealth ability, forcing her to be more strategic with her engagements and making her a bit less frustrating to deal with.
Clash Mode Revamp: Fairer Fights and Clearer Objectives
Clash mode is getting some attention too. The developers aim to improve fairness and clarity in this game mode, potentially addressing issues like spawn locations and objective capture mechanics. These changes should make Clash matches more enjoyable and balanced for everyone involved.
Additional Hero Balance Adjustments
While D.Va and Sombra are the main focus, expect to see balance tweaks for other heroes as well. The exact details are yet to be revealed, but the goal is to ensure a healthy and diverse meta where no single hero or role dominates the battlefield.
Release Date and Time
The mid-season patch is scheduled to go live on September 17th, 2024 at 11:00 AM PT (2:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM BST). Mark your calendars and prepare for a refreshed Overwatch 2 experience!
| Change | Details |
| Tank Nerfs | Focus on reducing tank survivability, particularly for D.Va |
| Sombra Stealth Nerf | Likely reduction in stealth duration |
| Clash Mode Improvements | Adjustments to enhance fairness and clarity |
| Additional Hero Balance Changes | Tweaks for various heroes to ensure a balanced meta |
| Release Date | September 17th, 2024 at 11:00 AM PT |
Key Takeaways
- Juno joins as a new Support hero with unique abilities
- Two new maps expand the Clash game mode
- The Battle Pass features the Mythic Anubis Reaper Hero Skin
New Features in Season 12
Season 12 brings exciting additions to Overwatch 2. Players can look forward to a new hero, game mode, and battle pass rewards.
Introduction of Juno
Juno joins the roster as the newest support hero. This cheerful character hails from Mars. Juno’s unique abilities add fresh gameplay options for support players.
Juno’s kit likely includes healing and damage-boosting abilities. These will help teammates in various ways during matches. Players can expect Juno to have an impact on team compositions and strategies.
The addition of Juno expands the support role. This gives players more choices when picking heroes for their matches.
Clash Mode Update
Clash is a new core game mode in Overwatch 2. It features 5 capture points on a mirrored map. Teams must work together to control these points.
The mode introduces two new maps designed for Clash. These maps offer fresh environments for players to explore and master.
Clash adds variety to the game. It gives players a new objective to focus on besides existing modes. This can help keep the gameplay experience feeling fresh and engaging.
Premium Battle Pass Enhancements
The Season 12 Battle Pass offers over 80 tiers of rewards. Players can earn up to 80 Mythic Prisms through the pass.
These Mythic Prisms can be used on new cosmetic items. Options include the Mythic Anubis Reaper Hero Skin and an upcoming Mythic Ana Weapon Skin.
The Premium Battle Pass includes:
- Legendary skins for Doomfist, Ana, Illari, Ashe, and Sigma
- 2000 Overwatch Coins
- Instant unlock of 20 tiers
These rewards give players more ways to customize their favorite heroes. The coins also allow for purchasing additional items in the in-game shop.
Gameplay and Balance Adjustments
Season 12 of Overwatch 2 brings major changes to gameplay mechanics and hero balance. These updates aim to improve the overall player experience and shake up the competitive meta.
Hero Mastery and Balance Changes
Hero Mastery missions are a new feature in Season 12. These missions let players test their skills with specific heroes. They offer a fun way to practice and improve.
Several heroes got balance updates this season. The devs aimed to reduce the power of mobile heroes. Many damage and support heroes had their health reduced. This change should make fights more balanced.
D.Va and Sombra are getting nerfs in the mid-season patch. Other tanks will also see changes. These tweaks should help create a more diverse hero meta.
New Map Updates
Season 12 introduces fresh maps to the game. These new battlegrounds offer unique layouts and challenges for players. They add variety to matches and keep the gameplay feeling fresh.
The map pool for competitive play has been updated. This rotation ensures players don’t get bored with the same maps. It also allows for new strategies to develop.
Some existing maps got small tweaks. These changes aim to fix balance issues or improve flow. Players should take time to explore the updated maps and find new tactical spots.
Competitive Play Overhaul
Competitive Play got a big update in Season 12. The respawn system changed from Group Respawn to Wave Respawn. This new system helps teams get back into the fight faster.
The default respawn time increased from 10 to 12 seconds. But if a teammate dies, you respawn 2 seconds faster. This change rewards teamwork and coordinated pushes.
A mid-year rank reset occurred. This reset helps improve rank distribution and match quality. Players will need to complete placement matches again to get their new rank.
Cosmetics and Rewards
Season 12 of Overwatch 2 brings a wealth of new cosmetic items and rewards for players to earn. The update introduces Mythic skins and adds fresh hero skins tied to the Egyptian mythology theme.
Introducing Mythic Skins
Mythic skins make their debut in Season 12. These top-tier cosmetics offer more customization than standard skins. The Mythic Anubis Reaper Hero Skin is a standout addition. Players can unlock it using Mythic Prisms earned through gameplay.
Mythic skins allow players to mix and match different parts. This creates unique looks for their favorite heroes. The Anubis Reaper skin lets users customize the mask, jacket, and weapon.
New Hero Skins and Themed Cosmetics
The Season 12 Battle Pass offers many Egyptian-themed skins and items. Notable additions include the Oni Ana skin for premium pass holders. Anubis Reaper and Venture skins are also available.
Players can earn up to 600 Overwatch Coins and 1500 credits through the free Battle Pass track. This allows free-to-play users to get new items too. The pass includes icons, emotes, and voice lines themed around Egyptian mythology.
Legendary skins in this season draw inspiration from ancient Egyptian deities and symbols. These detailed cosmetics transform heroes to fit the season’s theme.
Lore Expansion and Events
Overwatch 2’s 12th season brings new story elements and special activities. Players can explore Egyptian mythology and take part in unique game modes.
Anubis Reaper and Egyptian Mythology
The new Mythic Anubis Reaper Hero Skin adds depth to the game’s lore. This skin links Reaper to ancient Egyptian gods. It shows Blizzard’s effort to mix history with the Overwatch universe.
Players can earn Mythic Prisms to unlock this skin. The Season 12 Battle Pass offers up to 80 tiers of rewards. These include Mythic Prisms for the Anubis Reaper skin.
The Temple of Anubis map returns in a new form. It adds to the Egyptian theme of the season. This map was a fan favorite in the original Overwatch.
Special Events and Game Modes
Season 12 introduces fresh ways to play. The new Clash game mode offers battles on two new maps. This adds variety to the usual match types.
A special Overwatch 2 x World of Warcraft event is set for September 17. It will bring unique cosmetics to the game. This crossover lets players show their love for both Blizzard franchises.
The season also celebrates Overwatch 2’s anniversary. Players can expect special rewards and activities during this time. It’s a chance for both new and old fans to join in the festivities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Overwatch 2 Season 12 brings exciting new content and changes to the game. Players can look forward to a new hero, maps, and cosmetic items.
What is the official release date for Overwatch 2 Season 12?
Overwatch 2 Season 12 launched on August 14, 2024. This date marked the start of the new season and its content.
What new content can players expect in the Overwatch 2 Season 12 update?
Season 12 introduces Juno, a new Support hero from Mars. Players can also enjoy two new maps for the Clash game mode. The update includes fresh cosmetic items and battle pass rewards.
Which hero is getting the next mythic skin in Overwatch 2 Season 12?
The next mythic skin in Season 12 is for Reaper, themed after the Egyptian god Anubis. This skin allows players to customize Reaper’s appearance with ancient Egyptian-inspired designs.
How does the battle pass function in Overwatch 2 Season 12?
The Season 12 battle pass offers over 80 tiers of rewards. Players can earn up to 80 Mythic Prisms to spend on the new Mythic Anubis Reaper skin or the upcoming Mythic Ana weapon skin.
What are the duration and end date for Overwatch 2 Season 12?
Overwatch 2 seasons typically last around nine weeks. Based on this pattern, Season 12 is expected to end in mid-October 2024. The exact end date may vary slightly.
Are there any balance changes or gameplay updates anticipated for Overwatch 2’s 12th season?
While specific balance changes have not been detailed, Lifeweaver updates are mentioned. Players can expect ongoing adjustments to heroes and gameplay mechanics to maintain competitive balance.
