With the arrival of Season 9, dubbed "Champions", Blizzard Entertainment is introducing significant changes to Overwatch 2 that are designed to elevate the player experience to a new level. Based on player feedback from previous seasons, the updates aim to make the ranked experience more transparent, fair, and rewarding.

Improvements to the leaderboard experience

The developers have taken the community's feedback to heart and overhauled the leaderboard system. A new progression system and an additional rank above the Grandmaster, the "Champion", are just some of the new features. These adjustments should not only make the games fairer, but also clarify the reasons for ranking changes after each match. Players will now receive direct feedback on their progress and the impact on their ranking.

A new start with placement matches

With the introduction of new placement matches, all players will have the chance to start afresh. This adjustment is intended to reignite the excitement and competition in the ranking system. Ten placement matches will determine each player's new starting position, offering a unique opportunity to establish or improve your position on the leaderboard.

Promotion to Champions

The new Champion rank represents the top of the Overwatch 2 leaderboard and is a mark of exceptional skill and achievement. Only the best players who stand out from the crowd with consistent victories can achieve this rank.

New rewards and jade weapons

In addition to the ranking updates, Season 9 also introduces Jade Weapon variants that players can receive as a reward for their commitment to the ranked matches. These new rewards symbolize players' performance in 2024 and provide an additional incentive to compete in Competitive Mode.

Classic leaderboard points and last chance for end-of-season bonuses

With the start of the new season, all previous ranking points will be converted into classic ranking points, which can still be used to unlock gold weapon variants. Season 8 is also the last chance to collect special end-of-season bonuses and ranked challenges.

Fundamental gameplay changes

In addition to the leaderboard updates, Season 9 will also bring in-depth gameplay changes. These include adjustments to hit accuracy, eruption damage reduction and the balance between healing and damage. The aim is to make the game experience more balanced and team battles more dynamic.