Overwatch 2 Launches 'Overwatch: Classic' Mode – Relive the Original 2016 Experience!

Overwatch 2 has introduced Overwatch: Classic, a nostalgic, limited-time game mode that takes players back to the original experience of 2016. Running from November 12 to December 2, this mode reintroduces iconic heroes, classic maps, and gameplay mechanics from the original Overwatch.

Hints of this retro mode appeared when Overwatch 2’s social media started teasing a return to its roots, with cryptic comments about nostalgia, profile pictures featuring the original Tracer design, and a scheduled trailer. Now, with the release of the Overwatch: Classic trailer, it’s confirmed that players can soon dive into 6v6 matches without role or hero restrictions. Players will experience the removed Assault game mode and use classic versions of heroes, just as they were back in 2016.

Key features of Overwatch: Classic include:

• 6v6 matches with no role or hero limits
• Classic heroes and abilities like Symmetra’s six Sentry Turrets, Cassidy’s Flashbang, Hanzo’s Scatter Arrow, Mercy’s team-wide Resurrect, and more
• Removed maps such as Hanamura, Temple of Anubis, and Volskaya Industries

Notably, Overwatch: Classic is separate from the upcoming 6v6 tests in Overwatch 2, which begin on December 17. With Overwatch: Classic ending on December 2, players will have different ways to enjoy 6v6 gameplay over the coming months.

Whether Overwatch: Classic becomes a recurring or even permanent feature depends on its popularity. Given the strong response from fans, there’s potential for Blizzard to extend this mode, bring it back regularly, or add it as a staple to the game, much like Junkenstein’s Revenge.