surveillance 2The PvP beta of is still in its early stages and more content is coming before the full game is released. This includes new features, maps, and even additional unannounced heroes, according to Blizzard, as well as regular balance changes with an initial focus on the game’s support cast.
Blizzard detailed some of these changes in a developer Blog on the official Overwatch website on Tuesdaywhich take a look at what players can expect in subsequent patches.
While there’s no word on when new heroes (beyond Sojourn) or cards might arrive, Blizzard shared some of its plans regarding immediate priorities. Support heroes will see additional buffs as they have lost an off-tank to protect them and are more open to flanking. That may also mean revamped abilities, something Overwatch’s support page hasn’t factored in surveillance 2is beta.
“We’ve heard clearly that support players feel like both tank and damage players can enjoy and explore more new content in this beta,” Blizzard said. “Long term, we believe the most effective way to address this issue is to add exciting new support heroes to the game, and that’s part of our plans. In the near term, our hero design team is also experimenting with significant, but shorter lead times, ideas including new and refreshed abilities for some existing support heroes.”
Blizzard also addressed changes to Overwatch’s scoreboard and why the medals and “Fire” systems were being retired surveillance 2‘s beta in favor of more detailed player stats.
“These stats include eliminations, assists, deaths, damage, mitigation, and healing,” Blizzard said. “The information is presented in a new layout that reflects other competitive games and sports. We want to give players an overall more accurate view of the game. Our team believes that accurate feedback and encouragement can improve everyone’s gaming experience!”
Blizzard was quick to note that the beta test is still a work in progress, and elements such as menu screens, scoreboards, the new and improved hero look, and the golden gun system are not yet fully implemented or complete. It adds “a significant amount of general polish and refinement in the form of an improved user interface, [and] Bug fixes,” the developer said.
