'Overwatch' Update - Competitive Play Release Date and Top 5 Things to Expect From This Game Mode
Prior to the release of a new DLC patch for first-person shooter game "Overwatch," it is set to introduce a new game mode for PC, Xbox One and PS4 owners. Expected to have a full release this month, the Competitive Play mode is now on testing phase for personal computers as it aims to provide a better and more serious experience for gamers.
This will be useful especially to players who have already reached Level 25. Gamers are expected to be matched with other individuals possessing similar skills and they would need to face competition in a period of two and a half months.
Aside from these offerings, the upcoming game mode will also come with the following:
1. Skill Ratings
On the official blog of Overwatch, it was explained that players can only begin their competitive career once they complete 10 placement matches to get a skill rating for the game mode. These ratings can be viewed during the start of every game and has the potential to increase or decrease depending on a player's performance.
2. Competitive Matches
Players would need to complete objectives for a match in order to win. Great attacking and perfect defense are key factors in ensuring victory for the teams.
3. Schedule of Seasons
There will be four seasons for this game mode, which will last for two and a half months each. Overwatch's blog noted that this gives players the chance to increase their skill ratings and compete for rankings since all statistics will return to zero during the start of another season. Another interesting fact about these seasons is that they will reportedly copy the seasons of the northern hemisphere.
4. Rewards for Players
Players will not only compete for their skill ratings or rankings, as Overwatch said that they will also be rewarded with a player icon once they complete the placement matches. They can choose from various design when a new season begins.
5. Stricter Penalties
However, the game clarified that there will be more severe penalties for gamers because they would now be dealing with a more serious gameplay. Violations such as exiting a game that is not yet finished or leaving one's computer while the match is ongoing will disqualify a player from joining a new game. They can only compete again once the original match has been completed.
In a statement, Blizzard Entertainment highlighted that Competitive Play will be a great thing for players to try but noted that necessary tweaks would be made along the way once it has already been released.