The hero-based shooterOverwatch 2has been widely popular since launch of the originalOverwatchin 2016. Delivering quick-fire action with a roster ofunique characters to play, the game has stood out against many of the hero shooters that followed in its wake. Despite the popularity of the original 6v6 mode, however,the game shifted to 5v5 for the launch ofOverwatch 2, a move that has been met with much continued contention.

While the player base remains strong and the game is undoubtedly in its best position in years,many fans have rallied for the return of their much-loved 6v6 gameplay to return, particularly asMarvel Rivalshas delivered incredible 6v6fun to compete with. Without the tactical opportunities that two-tank collaboration allowed for,Overwatch 2has ultimately shifted in many ways. This community feedback has not gone under the radar though, with the Blizzard team releasing multiple developer blogs and now sharing the game’s first return to 6v6 withOverwatchClassic.

Symmetra and Rampart on opposite sides of a gray figure with a hood that’s been pixelated out.

What Is Overwatch Classic

A Return To The Game’s Beginnings

While theOverwatchcommunity has been requesting a return to 6v6 for some time now,Overwatch Classicdelivers itin a way that’s vastly unexpected, giving players much more than just a two-tank comeback. As a game selection of its own,this limited-time mode is based on Patch 1.0 for the original game around launch, taking players back to how the game once was. With a roster of just 21 heroes and most of their original abilities restored, it really feels like a revival ofOverwatch’s original form.

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OverwatchClassicalso restores the removed Assault mode and its much-loved maps Hanamura and Temple of Anubis. The original role assignments return along with the temporary removal of hero limits, giving teams the possibility of duplicate heroes or an imbalanced number of players from each role. As the first offering of 6v6 seen since becomingOverwatch 2,it’s clear thatBlizzard is still looking for ways to bring back this highly-popular modewhile keeping it distinct from the current 5v5 on offer.

Overwatch 2 Junkrat Using Concussion Mine Explosion on Zarya on Anubis Map Gameplay Perspective Screenshot

Why Overwatch’s New 6v6 Mode Is So Important

Players Have Missed 6v6 Since Overwatch 2’s Release

It’s no understatement that a return to 6v6 has been requested in the thousands since the launch ofOverwatch 2, andthis new game mode holds a lot of potential to shape the future of the game. With many returning players that had previously stepped away from the game, there’s an argument to be had that 6v6 is still at the core of what many love about theOverwatchexperience. This newfound attentiveness to the playerbase is also a welcome shift fromOverwatch 2, delivering what the players are asking for while still considering what’s attainable.

Get Ready For A Classic 6v6 Battle, As Overwatch Classic Brings Back The Highly Requested Game Mode For A Limited Time

Blizzard is bringing back 6v6 battles in Overwatch 2 for a very limited time, but some players are hoping the success will lead to permanence.

Overwatch 2is far from the first game to capitalize on this nostalgia of older features returning, withApex LegendsandFortniterecently bringing back older seasons, maps, and classic modes too. As many players desire the previous states of their favorite games, it’s clear thatOverwatch 2is no exception with older mechanics, modes and, of course, 6v6. As this first trial of a potential permanent return holds a lot of weight, there’s never been a better time to dive in and see what’s on offer.

A group of Overwatch 2 characters posing in a piece of promotional art.

The Future Of Overwatch 2

How Can 6v6 Fit Into The Overwatch 2 Of Today?

Whilegame director Aaron Keller confirmed that reverting to 6v6 isn’t likelyin a Twitch interview withOverwatch 2coachSpilo(shared byOverwatch Cavalryon Twitter), it’s still very much on the table that both formats of the game could co-exist at once. There will likely be future 6v6 game modes, trials, and more, and anyone eager for a permanent 6v6 would be wise to show up for the effort. It might never be possible for the game to cover both modes without the player count struggling, but there’s never been a better time to give it a shot.

Looking to the future ofOverwatch 2,it doesn’t feel out of reach to consider a fourth quick play option for role-queue 6v6 players. Though balancing might make it tricky to consider further modes like competitive, the incredible player support for its return could see Blizzard truly making it a permanent or semi-permanent way to play without ranks. While that’s still a long way down the line and there are still a lot of unknowns,OverwatchClassicis a positive step forwardfor taking on board player feedback and attempting to deliver what players have been asking for.

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