Overwatch 2 Re-Enters Chinese Market Amid Anticipation

Overwatch 2's triumphant return to China is set for February 19th, following a two-year absence. A technical test will precede the launch, commencing January 8th and concluding on the 15th. This marks the end of a long wait for Chinese players, who missed 12 seasons of content.

The hiatus began in January 2023 when Blizzard's contract with NetEase expired, resulting in the unavailability of numerous Blizzard titles in China. However, a renewed partnership in April 2024 paved the way for the game's return.

The technical test will allow Chinese players to experience all 42 heroes, including the recently introduced Hazard, and the classic 6v6 mode. The official launch coincides with the start of Overwatch 2 Season 15.

Further solidifying Overwatch 2's comeback, the Overwatch Championship Series will feature a dedicated China region in 2025, with the inaugural live event taking place in Hangzhou.

Chinese players will have a significant amount of content to explore, including six new heroes (Lifeweaver, Illari, Mauga, Venture, Juno, and Hazard), new game modes (Flashpoint and Clash), new maps (Antarctic Peninsula, Samoa, and Runasapi), the Invasion story missions, and numerous hero reworks and balance changes.

Regrettably, the 2025 Lunar New Year event might conclude just before the game's return, potentially causing Chinese players to miss out on event-exclusive skins and the Prop Hunt game mode. Hopefully, Blizzard will address this by offering a delayed version of the event.

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