Blizzard has announced a significant change coming to Overwatch 2: starting with Season 15, the game will no longer feature the Clash mode in Competitive Play. Currently in its 14th season, Overwatch 2 is already making preparations for future updates.
The decision to remove Clash stems from feedback suggesting it’s a problematic mode. It seems to lead to quick, lopsided matches that strip away the balance that players expect in Overwatch. While these fast-ending games might spare players from drawn-out losses, they don’t match the typical gameplay expectations. However, Clash won’t disappear completely—it’ll still be available in Quick Play and other unranked modes, providing players with the option to enjoy it in a more casual setting.
This removal comes as Blizzard gears up to contend with new challengers in the hero shooter genre, notably Marvel Rivals, which has been captivating players with compelling gameplay experiences. In light of this, Blizzard is planning a major event for Overwatch 2 on February 12. This spotlight event promises to unveil upcoming heroes, fresh maps, and significant PvP updates that might redefine how we experience the game. Fans will have to wait and see what exactly this event will bring, but Blizzard has offered some hint about the coming season.
Overwatch 2’s director, Aaron Keller, confirmed this change, saying the objective is to give players a better competitive environment. Clash’s maps, known for their resemblance to the outdated Assault maps, were already omitted from Quick Play and Competitive modes years ago due to similar challenges. While some players may appreciate the brevity of a steamrolling match, others find the rapid pace off-putting and confusing.
Personally, I haven’t faced major issues with Clash. I find that short steamroll matches can be beneficial, especially compared to being stuck in a lengthy, inevitable defeat. However, if I had to choose a mode to eliminate from Competitive Play, Flashpoint would be my first pick. Although enhancements like spawn speed boosts have improved it slightly, it still doesn’t sit right with me. Yet, ultimately, a diverse range of modes keeps the game session dynamic and interesting, even if some come with their own set of frustrations.
Overwatch 2 will forge ahead into Season 15 on February 18, continuing to evolve and adapt as it strives to maintain its standing in the gaming community. As always, the variety of game modes enriches the overall experience, and while changes are inevitable, they often pave the way for improvement and reconfiguration to enhance player engagement and satisfaction.
