Overwatch 2 is changing up gameplay in several ways, ranging from huge hero reworks to the removal of entire modes. Alongside improved visuals, sound, and fresh content like heroes and maps, the sequel will be making a change to 5v5 gameplay. According to Blizzard, a bold change like this was always planned, as 7v7 was tested as well. However, it decided to go with 5v5, and the Overwatch fan base has been divided on the change.
While some are open to seeing what Overwatch 2 has to offer, many more are confused by this change. Not only do some deem it unnecessary given the success of 6v6, but many have pointed out legitimate issues that could result from the decision. While it is important not to judge the 5v5 gameplay too early, as players have not yet played it themselves to see how it feels, some of the early criticisms make sense. As such, this surprising meta shift is already facing an uphill battle.
Why Overwatch 2’s 5v5 Setup Puts Too Much Pressure On Tanks
The biggest concern about the change to a 5v5 setup is what is being taken away. Instead of removing a damage hero or even a DPS, one of Overwatch’s tanks is being removed from every team. As such, everything rests on a single tank, with the player needing to lead the entirety of a push by themselves. While Overwatch 2’s ping system may help a tank guide their team, those playing the class are not in an enviable position. Needing to play perfectly to win, there is no room for mistakes, as all eyes will be on a team’s tank hero.
If this lone tank dies, an entire push will be over. As such, while fights will be quicker and more intense, pushes can be brought to a halt quickly if players focus the tank. In the original Overwatch, tanks had an off-tank to back them up, with characters like Zarya and D.Va able to fill the void if a Reinhardt or Orisa is killed. In the sequel, this luxury does not exist, meaning that teams will need to do everything they can to keep their tank alive. While this is an interesting mechanic, it could turn many away from the tank class.
After all, with every tank death being a massive setback for a team, there will likely be increased toxicity in Overwatch 2. Negative gamers will be quick to shout at the tank for every small slip-up given how much the role matters to winning a fight, and this arguing might not be worth the hassle for many tank fans. As such, they may avoid playing the role, selecting damage or support and leaving the tough position of tank for someone else. However, overwhelming responsibility for tanks is hardly the only downside of the 5v5 changeup.
How Overwatch 2’s 5v5 Meta Could Doom Certain Off-Tanks
Based on what Overwatch 2 is aiming to do, it will need to phase out the off-tank playstyle completely. Every tank will need to become an anchor like Sigma and Reinhardt, and for some characters, that is going to be tough to pull off. While Winston’s new weapon ability is a good sign, as it shows Blizzard will go far with these changes, not every character will be able to make the adjustment as easily. While Winston already has a shield, making his transition smoother, this is a major issue for someone like D.Va.
Given the fact that D.Va is one of Overwatch’s most popular heroes, seeing her become less useful would be devastating for many players. However, it is hard to think of her leading a push, even with some new abilities. Shields are a must for main tanks, as players can hide behind them and push forward, though D.Va getting one seems unlikely. It is even less likely for heroes like Roadhog, as the bulky shotgun-user has always thrived in the off-tank role. With his focus being on singling out certain targets, it is hard to imagine him ever working as a main tank.
The most hopeless of all is Hammond, as Wrecking Ball is specifically designed around moving fast and contesting points. Boasting one of the most unique kits in the game, Wrecking Ball is not a leader like Reinhardt, nor should he be. Without a Bastion-level rework, he simply will not work in the 5v5 setup. On top of this, Wrecking Ball users may not be interested in a full rework for the character if it were to happen. While characters like Winston and Zarya could easily become main tanks, Roadhog and Wrecking Ball are simply not built for 5v5 gameplay.
Why Overwatch 2’s Switch To 5v5 Causes More Harm Than Good
While wanting a faster-paced Overwatch with action that is easier to track is not necessarily bad, it could end up being a decision that is received like the Role Queue system. Despite good intentions, the system may lead to some unnecessary frustration, with players forced to adapt to the change. One potential downside sees friend groups split up, as those that run matches in full teams of six will no longer be able to play together. Instead, one player will have to sit on the sidelines, listening to their friends have fun without them.
This same issue extends to the Overwatch League, as the sequel could influence the competitive scene in a similar way. Teams with several tanks on reserve may need to make some cuts, with the result being a lack of tank positions in professional play. While it would be a shame for the talented gamers to lose their position on a team because of a meta change, it is a possibility due to the lower tank count. For now, gamers will need to see if any drastic changes are made, though it is hard to think of a scenario where every OWL team stays intact for the sequel.
While gamers will not be able to form a true opinion on the switch to 5v5 until they play Overwatch 2 themselves, it is a questionable change on paper. Troublesome for tank players and frustrating for those who play in groups of six, there is plenty to worry about when it comes to this format. With others simply seeing it as unneeded given the popularity of the classic 6v6 gameplay, Blizzard has a lot of work to do if it wants to win fans over on the change. While there is plenty of hype for Overwatch 2’s story mode, the sequel’s multiplayer component is sparking fear in fans, and much of the blame can be placed on the change to 5v5.
Overwatch 2 is in development for PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One.
