Overwatch, Blizzard Entertainment’s blockbuster team-based shooter, is now over 20 million players strong, and among that number are a new generation of sports heroes. With more and more players continuing to distinguish themselves in the game, Blizzard Entertainment has created the Overwatch League—a world-class sports ecosystem for professional Overwatch competition. Combining Blizzard’s esports pedigree with the best practices of major professional sports, the Overwatch League will focus on long-term stability for teams as well as opportunities for players to establish the types of professional careers associated with traditional sports.
The inaugural season of the Overwatch League will begin in 2017. At the start of the season, Blizzard will host a combine, where eligible players who have previously distinguished themselves in competition will be invited to try out for teams. Players at the combine will be evaluated across a range of tests, giving teams the opportunity to sign those who best round out their rosters. Anyone picked up by a team during the signing period will be guaranteed a contract that includes a baseline minimum salary and benefits package.
NEW HERO – SOMBRA
One of the world’s most notorious hackers, Sombra is an offensive hero who specialises in hit-and-run tactics. Sombra’s Thermoptic Camo ability lets her sneak behind enemy lines, while her Translocator device teleports her out of danger.
She can Hack a target to reduce their damage and deny them health packs. Her ultimate ability, EMP, can turn the tide of a team fight by disabling shields and shutting down enemies’ powers.
NEW MAP – OASIS
There’s trouble in paradise as conflict breaks out in Oasis, a brand-new Control map set in a shining jewel of prosperity surrounded by a lifeless desert.
NEW MAP – ECOPOINT: ANTARCTICA
Bundle up for a journey to Ecopoint: Antarctica, a compact new arena map featuring multiple new game modes, including a 3-vs.-3 battle and 1-on-1 duel. Face off at the remote scientific outpost where brilliant climatologist Mei spent years in cryostasis following a catastrophic polar storm.
NEW FEATURE – OVERWATCH ARCADE
Discover new ways to fight for the future in the Overwatch Arcade. Choose from a variety of regularly rotating alternate game modes, including 1-on-1 duels, 3-vs.-3 skirmishes, and special rulesets like “no hero switching”—and earn rewards like bonus experience and loot.
