Blizzard is setting the stage for some changes in Overwatch 2 with the announcement of removing the Clash mode from Competitive Play. As things stand, Season 14 is in full swing, but the excitement is already building for what’s to come in Season 15, slated to kick off on February 18.
Overwatch 2 is currently facing fierce competition, particularly from the rising star Marvel Rivals. This new hero shooter is making waves among players, prompting Blizzard to respond with a significant spotlight event on February 12. This event promises to showcase upcoming heroes, new maps, and some touted “groundbreaking” changes in PvP mechanics. While Blizzard keeps the specifics under wraps, they’ve offered a sneak peek at what’s on the horizon for the game with a focus on adjusting how players experience the competitive side.
Aaron Keller, the game director of Overwatch 2, has confirmed that the team decided to pull Clash from Competitive play for Season 15. Clash, which incorporates elements from old Assault maps, faced criticism for fostering matches that end prematurely. Players noted that these steamroll situations often leave teams confused about the objective, leading to unfavorable and abrupt match conclusions. In response, Blizzard aims to fine-tune these maps by taking Clash away from the competitive scene. However, the mode will still be accessible in Quick Play and other non-ranked formats.
Reflecting on personal experiences, I’ve never personally encountered significant issues with the Clash mode in Overwatch 2. Even when experiencing a steamroll, I prefer these swift matches over prolonged ones because quicker defeats can be less frustrating in comparison.
Looking at the competitive modes, if there’s one I would consider removing, it would be Flashpoint. Despite updates aimed at improving it—like spawn speed boosts—Flashpoint remains my least favorite. Nevertheless, in my opinion, having a wide variety in game modes enriches long gaming sessions. They keep things fresh and, in many cases, worth enduring the aggravation some might bring.
As we gear up for Season 15, which officially begins on February 18, I’m curious about how these changes will enhance the player experience and drive the excitement of the competitive battlefield forward for Overwatch 2 enthusiasts.
