Overwatch 2 was unveiled by Blizzard over two years ago, but fans will finally be able to get a taste of how the sequel’s PvP gameplay compares to the original as part of a new beta that will open up next month.
Blizzard confirmed today that Overwatch 2’s PvP beta will begin on April 26 with new heroes, maps, 5v5 gameplay, and more. The release date for the sequel comes just one week after the company initiated its closed alpha for the sequel on its website and opened up the registration process for the beta.
Blizzard also provided more details about the game during a developer livestream today, one that provided insight on some of the changes for classic characters and what players can expect in Overwatch 2’s April PvP beta. Beta testers can look forward to a new hero (Sojourn), new mode (Push), multiple new maps (i.e., Circuit Royal, Midtown, New Queen Street, and Colosseo), and a new ping system.
Additionally, Blizzard has made clear that Doomfist is a tank now. For the uninitiated, Doomfist is a close-combat fighter who specializes in beating his opponents down with combos, able to knock non-tank heroes into walls with his signature ability Rocket Punch. Doomfist also has a rising uppercut that can not only be used to deal damage but get the character higher up.
Doomfist certified Tank in #Overwatch2 💪
— Overwatch (@PlayOverwatch) March 18, 2022
System Requirements for the Closed Beta:
Minimum (targeting 30fps):
- Operating system: Windows 7 / Windows 8 / Windows 10 64-bit (latest Service Pack)
- Processor: Intel Core i3 or AMD Phenom X3 8650
- Video: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 600 series, AMD Radeon HD 7000 series
- Memory: 6 GB RAM
- Storage: 50 GB available hard drive space
Recommended (targeting 60fps on Medium settings):
- Operating system: Windows 10 64-bit (latest Service Pack)
- Processor: Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 5
- Video: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or AMD R9 380
- Memory: 8 GB RAM
- Storage: 50 GB available hard drive space
Blizzard will be testing Overwatch 2 in a series of closed betas, with the first beginning on April 26. Fans of the original who are curious as to how the sequel might measure up can sign up for the upcoming beta at playoverwatch.com.
OVERWATCH 2 PVP BETA – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (Blizzard)
Q. How are Closed Beta participants selected?
A. Beta testers are chosen based on a variety of factors, including (but not limited to) your Battle.net region, when you signed up, and your computer hardware specifications. We are also inviting select journalists and community contributors from around the world.
Q. Do I need to own a copy of Overwatch 1 to access the Closed beta?
A. Yes, you will need to own a Copy of Overwatch 1 to access the 1st Closed Beta.
Q. I’m a console player, will I be able to play in the 1st Closed Beta?
A. Our first Closed Beta will be available on PC only, but we do have plans to include console players in future Betas!
Q. How will I know if I’m selected to participate in the Closed Beta?
A. If you are selected to participate in the Closed Beta, you will receive an invite via email. Invites will always be sent to the email address associated with your Battle.net account.
Q. How many players do you plan to invite to the Closed Beta?
A. The number of players we invite is based on our testing needs. We also want to make sure the game’s matchmaking system remains in a relatively healthy place throughout this phase of testing. If we determine we need more players to test new features or keep matches running smoothly, we’ll add players to the Closed Beta from our opt-in pool.
Q. When can I start playing in the 1st Closed Beta?
A. The first Closed Beta will be available on PC beginning April 26th, 2022.
Q. Will there be any other ways to get into the Closed Beta besides opting-in for a chance to be included through your website?
A. We will have more to share on Beta access soon. Please stay tuned to our @playoverwatch channels and websites for updates.
Q. How can I opt-in to the Overwatch Closed Beta?
A. To opt into the beta, visit www.playoverwatch.com/beta and click the button that says, “Sign Up Now.” Clicking this button will prompt you to sign-in with your Battle.net ID or create one. Once you’ve signed in or created a new account, you’ll be opted-in for a chance to be invited to the Closed Beta.
**Please note that opting in will not guarantee you access to the Closed Beta.
Q. Will any progress I make during the Closed Beta carry over to the live game?
A. No. We’ve no plans currently for your activity during the Closed Beta to carry over.
Q. Will Mac users be able to participate in the beta?
A. We’re developing Overwatch for Windows-based PCs only, so a Mac-specific beta will not be provided.