Heroes Brawl Returns: Iconic Game Mode Revived

Heroes of the Storm Revives Brawl Mode: A Nostalgic Return to Unique Map Challenges

Heroes of the Storm is bringing back its beloved Heroes Brawl game mode, rebranded as "Brawl Mode," after a five-year hiatus. This exciting update, currently available on the Public Test Realm (PTR), introduces rotating bi-weekly challenges on previously discontinued maps, each offering unique gameplay experiences and a special chest reward for completing three matches.

The original Heroes Brawl, initially launched as Arena Mode in 2016, featured weekly rotating maps with altered objectives and rulesets. Inspired by Hearthstone's Tavern Brawls, it offered diverse gameplay, from sniper duels to action-packed arena variations of existing battlefields, and even PvE missions. However, due to the popularity of single-lane maps and maintenance challenges, it was eventually replaced by ARAM in 2020.

Brawl Mode's return marks a significant moment for Heroes of the Storm. The new iteration, detailed in the recent PTR patch notes, features a bi-weekly rotation (1st and 15th of each month), offering a special chest reward for playing three matches within the active Brawl period. With over two dozen past Brawls, players can anticipate the return of many favorites, and potentially some exciting new additions.

The initial Brawl Mode on the PTR is the holiday-themed Snow Brawl. Given the PTR's anticipated three-week duration, the official launch of Brawl Mode in the live game is likely slated for early February, coinciding with the game's 10th anniversary on June 2nd, 2025.

This revival is a major win for the Heroes of the Storm community and fuels speculation about a potential full-scale game revival.

Heroes of the Storm PTR Patch Notes (January 6, 2025)

This PTR patch includes various hero balance adjustments, bug fixes, and the exciting addition of Brawl Mode.

General:

• Updated Homescreen and Startup Music.
• NEW: Brawl Mode added! Brawls rotate on the 1st and 15th of each month.

Balance Updates: (Significant balance changes to Auriel, Chromie, Johanna, Tracer, and Zul'jin are detailed in the original patch notes. This summary omits the extensive list for brevity.)

Bug Fixes: (A comprehensive list of bug fixes across various heroes and general gameplay is detailed in the original patch notes and omitted here for brevity.) Fixes address issues with experience globes, visual effects, slows, and numerous hero-specific bugs.