Overwatch 2 reaches 25 million players despite initial setbacks

Overwatch 2's launch has been a success despite a few initial bumps in the process. The free-to-play sequel to the popular Blizzard team-based shooter has reached over 25 million players after just 10 days.

Overwatch 2 has been the subject of controversy for years now. Overwatch players were originally excited about the announcement back in 2019 but were quickly frustrated by the lack of information as the sequel was delayed over and over again. Meanwhile, the original game seemed all but abandoned by Blizzard, with only one new hero released and very little new content as developers focused on Overwatch 2 instead.

As information started to come out about Overwatch 2, the community questioned why it was even necessary in the first place. To some, it sounded like a huge update that didn't need to be a separate game. Why not just add the heroes and maps to the existing Overwatch? Why make players buy another Overwatch if not for what many assumed was greed?

Still, Blizzard developers pushed on with the concept of a second Overwatch, explaining that there was much more to it than a few new heroes. There was also an entirely new game mode and the introduction of 5v5 instead of 6v6, meaning every hero had to be balanced and changed to meet this new meta.

While Overwatch players were still skeptical, many couldn't help but anticipate Overwatch 2, still loyal to the game's colorful heroes, chaotic gameplay, and interesting lore. Overwatch 2 introduced a battle pass, which had some people frustrated since new hero Kiriko was going to take money or a whole lot of grinding. Still, this new take on Overwatch has clearly been a massive success.

“The launch of Overwatch 2 has been such an important moment for Blizzard. We’re thrilled to bring new players from around the world into Overwatch’s vibrant universe while welcoming back the existing Blizzard community,” said Mike Ybarra, President of Blizzard Entertainment. “This is only the beginning —there are so many possibilities to explore in the world of Overwatch, and we cannot wait for players to experience everything the team is building for the live game.”

This truly is just the beginning for Overwatch 2. Blizzard revealed an entire road map for the game, which includes a new tank hero, a new map, new mythic skins, and eventually the previously promised PvE mode. With so much content planned, Overwatch players are sure to be hooked for the near future.