Exciting updates are on the horizon for Overwatch 2 players as leaked patch notes for Season 9 hint at significant changes to the popular hero shooter. From global projectile size adjustments to health updates for all heroes, let’s dive into the details of what’s in store for Overwatch enthusiasts.
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Overwatch 2 Season 9 Patch Notes Leak: Major Gameplay Tweaks Ahead
As anticipation mounts for the next season of Overwatch 2, leaked patch notes have surfaced, indicating a slew of adjustments aimed at enhancing gameplay dynamics. With a focus on addressing balance issues and refining hero abilities, Season 9 promises to shake up the Overwatch experience.
Projectiles and Ultimate Charges: Game-Changing Modifications
One of the most notable changes outlined in the leaked patch notes is the adjustment to projectile sizes. This update aims to improve hit accuracy for all heroes, making it easier to land shots and engage targets effectively. Additionally, ultimate charges for all heroes will see a 10% increase in cost, reducing the frequency of devastating ultimates and adding a strategic element to gameplay.
Max impact damage increased from 50 to 75
Max wall slam damage increased from 30 to 40.
Junker Queen
Base Stats
Health increased from 300 to 375
Rampage
Wound damage over time increased from 60 to 90.
Mauga
Base Stats
Health increased from 300 to 400
Orisa
Base Stats
Armor increased from 275 to 350
Ramattra
Base Stats
Health increased from 200 to 275
Reinhardt
Rocket Hammer
Damage increased from 85 to 100
Charge
Wall impact damage increased from 225 to 275
Roadhog
Base Stats
Health increased from 550 to 650
Sigma
Base Stats
Shields increased from 200 to 275
Winston
Health increased from 200 to 225
Armor increased from 200 to 250
Tesla Cannon
Damage increased from 60 to 75 damage per second
Primal Rage
Punch damage increased from 40 to 50
Wrecking Ball
Base Stats
Armor increased from 100 to 175
Zarya
Particle Cannon
Primary Fire Beam width increased from 0.15 to 0.2 meters
Damage:
Role Passive Changed
Reload speed bonus on elim removed
[NEW] Role Passive: Dealing damage reduces healing received by 20% for 2 seconds
Ashe
Base Stats
Health increased from 200 to 250
B.O.B.
B.O.B. weapon damage increased from 14 to 17
Bastion
Base Stats
Health increased from 225 to 275
Cassidy
Base Stats
Health increased from 200 to 250
Deadeye
Initial damage rate increased from 130 to 150
Damage rate increased from 260 to 300
Base Stats
Health increased from 200 to 250
Focusing Beam
Width increased from 0.2 to 0.25 meters
Duplicate
Maximum combined health, including health, armor, and shields, increased from 300 to 350.
Genji
Base Stats
Health increased from 200 to 250
Dragonblade
Swing recovery decreased from 0.9 to 0.7
Hanzo
Base Stats
Health increased from 200 to 250
Storm Arrows
Damage increased from 65 to 75
Cooldown reduced from 10 to 8 seconds
Junkrat
Base Stats
Health increased from 200 to 250
Mei
Base Stats
Health increased from 250 to 300
Pharah
Base Stats
Health increased from 200 to 250
Launcher
Self-damage percentage decreased from 50% to 25%
Recovery reduced from 0.85 to 0.8 seconds
Projectile speed increased from 35 to 40
Jet Dash [NEW]
Horizontal dash in the direction you’re moving
10 second cooldown
Bound to secondary fire by default
Jump Jets
20% weaker
Cooldown increased from 10 to 14 seconds
Gives 50% of your fuel back
Concussive Blast
25% weaker horizontal knockback
Range decreased from 8 to 5 meters
Cooldown decreased from 8 to 5 meters
Now deals 30 damage
Rocket Barrage
Now instantly reloads Rocket Launcher
Now shows spread of the barrage when the show accuracy option is enabled on your crosshair
Hover Jets
Fuel decreased by 20%
Speed boost increased by 100%
Now gives you better aerial maneuverability
No longer refuels in the air, only will refuel once you land
Fuel can increase to 200% capacity if filled from Jump Jet and Jet Dash
Can be used without fuel to slow your descent
Reaper
Base Stats
Health increased from 250 to 300
Sojourn
Base Stats
Health increased from 200 to 250
Soldier 76
Base Stats
Health increased from 200 to 250
Health Updates: Bolstering Hero Resilience
To promote a more robust combat experience, Season 9 will introduce health buffs across the board for all heroes. With an increase of approximately 15% to 20% in total health pools, heroes will become more resilient in the face of enemy attacks, leading to longer and more dynamic engagements.
Tanks: Reinforcing Frontline Defenses
Tank heroes are set to receive substantial buffs in Season 9, aimed at bolstering their role as frontline defenders. From increased health pools to enhanced abilities, tanks like D.Va, Reinhardt, and Roadhog will become even more formidable adversaries on the battlefield.
Damage Dealers: Strategic Adjustments for Versatile Offense
While damage-dealing heroes will see fewer bonuses, adjustments to their abilities and health pools will ensure they remain potent forces in combat. With tweaks to damage rates and projectile sizes, heroes like Ashe, Genji, and Pharah will continue to offer versatile offensive capabilities.
Support Heroes: Enhancing Healing Dynamics
Although support heroes are not the primary focus of Season 9‘s adjustments, their healing abilities will indirectly benefit from the changes implemented. With a reduction in damage dealt translating to less pressure on healers, support heroes will have more opportunities to sustain their teammates in the heat of battle.
Community Response and Developer Insights
In response to the leaked patch notes, the Overwatch 2 community has expressed both excitement and apprehension about the forthcoming changes. While some players welcome the proposed tweaks as a step towards a more balanced gameplay experience, others remain cautious, fearing potential disruptions to their preferred playstyles.
Overwatch 2 Game Director Aaron Keller has provided insights into the rationale behind the Season 9 adjustments, assuring players that these changes are part of a larger effort to refine and evolve the game. Keller’s transparency and commitment to community engagement reflect Blizzard Entertainment’s dedication to delivering a compelling and dynamic gaming experience.
Final Thoughts: A New Era for Overwatch 2
As Overwatch 2 gears up for Season 9, players can look forward to a fresh and revitalized gaming experience. With gameplay tweaks aimed at enhancing balance and diversity, the hero shooter continues to evolve, offering new challenges and opportunities for players to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the world of Overwatch, Season 9 promises to usher in a new era of excitement and innovation.