Overwatch Introduces Progression 2.0 System Ahead of Season 18
The upcoming Season 18 of Overwatch will feature a revamped progression system, dubbed Progression 2.0, designed to enhance player engagement and simplify hero progression tracking.
At a glance
- New System
- Progression 2.0 focuses on hero-based progression levels.
- Visual Rewards
- Players earn Ascended portrait borders and badges as they level up.
- Retroactive Levels
- Progression 2.0 rewards reflect players' past experiences.
Overview of Progression 2.0
The Overwatch game design team has announced a significant overhaul of the game's progression system, set to debut in Season 18. This new system, referred to as Progression 2.0, aims to create a more streamlined and engaging experience for players, both new and veteran. The team has been working on this project for approximately six months, responding to community feedback to refine the progression experience.
Progression 2.0 shifts the focus from overall time played to hero-based progression levels, allowing players to showcase their dedication to specific heroes more effectively. This change is intended to simplify the previous system, which was deemed overly complex and not resonating well with the player base.
New Rewards and Visuals
One of the key features of Progression 2.0 is the introduction of Ascended portrait borders. Players will earn these borders for every 20 levels of hero progression, which can be achieved by playing any game mode except Custom Games. The borders will evolve in complexity and visual flair as players reach higher levels, culminating in a striking design at level 60.
In addition to the portrait borders, players will also receive badges that reflect their progression milestones. These badges will be displayed under the player's portrait in the Hero Select screen, providing additional bragging rights and helping to inform team composition during matches.
Enhanced Reward Tracking
The new Progression 2.0 Hero screen will serve as a centralized hub for players to track their progress and rewards. This screen will feature 3D models of heroes, progression tracking, and an intuitive rewards list, making it easier for players to access their earned items. Major and Legendary Loot Boxes will be awarded at certain milestones, and hero-specific items can be equipped with a single click, eliminating the need to search through a cluttered inventory.
Importantly, the new system will retroactively apply to all heroes, meaning that players will receive rewards based on their existing playtime in Overwatch 2. This includes Ascended borders, badges, and cosmetics for heroes they have already leveled up, ensuring that veteran players have a wealth of new rewards to look forward to.
