Overwatch 2 will see the return of the Overwatch World Cup in 2023, Blizzard declares. The main worldwide competitors for the FPS recreation has been absent for the previous three years, with Overwatch League execs carrying the cardboard for the esports scene. Now, as soccer followers worldwide put together for the FIFA World Cup Closing between Argentina and France, Overwatch 2 is making ready to deliver collectively 36 nationwide groups to compete for its trophy.
The Overwatch World Cup 2023 is deliberate to begin in June 2023, with regional qualifiers happening to find out the highest 16 groups that may compete within the Group Stage and Finals in autumn 2023. Blizzard says that it’ll announce the competing nations and areas in January, at which period it is going to additionally open functions for every competitors fee that might be accountable for tryouts and group choice.
Whereas it may appear possible that these spots might be dominated by Overwatch League and Overwatch Contenders execs, Blizzard is internet hosting an open event in February known as the World Cup Trials that may internet the profitable gamers a assured spot in tryouts for his or her group. Those that fall quick will be capable of join from March – Blizzard says that you simply’ll should be not less than Diamond rank in Overwatch 2 aggressive play, though we suspect the profitable entrants will come from increased up the ladder. It’s at all times beautiful to see an underdog story, although!
Together with attending to see the world’s greatest Overwatch 2 gamers in motion, followers can even get a lot of in-game Overwatch 2 challenges and rewards to rejoice the event because it progresses. Hopefully we’ll additionally get our fingers on group skins as nicely!
It’ll be fascinating to see which nations star within the event – South Korea is more likely to be a favorite, having held a vice grip on the trophy for its first three years, however they’ll have to beat reigning Overwatch World Cup champions the US, who defeated South Korea within the 2019 semi-finals earlier than securing the trophy in opposition to China.
The Chinese language Overwatch 2 scene has solely continued to flourish since then, so they need to even be thought-about severe contenders – though the latest expiration of a Blizzard China take care of Netease has thrown the scene into turmoil. There’s additionally more likely to be some notable competitors from the likes of France, Sweden, Canada, and Denmark, and naturally the UK will possible be there in power, hoping for a greater exhibiting than their disappointing 2019 efficiency.
As Overwatch 2 season 2 continues, the primary notable Overwatch 2 patch notes of season 2 are right here, with Blizzard teasing a “tender rework” for Roadhog alongside nerfs for Doomfist and buffs to newcomer Ramattra’s talents. We’ve additionally bought a information to all of the Overwatch 2 Winter Wonderland skins on provide in 2022, so you’ll be able to rejoice the season in fashion.
