Overwatch 2 Season 15 Introduces Major Competitive Changes

Blizzard has announced that the Clash game mode will be removed from Competitive Play in Overwatch 2 as Season 15 begins. While we’re currently on Season 14, the popular hero shooter is already setting its sights on the developments for Season 15 and beyond.

Overwatch 2 faces tough competition from the recently launched Marvel Rivals, a free-to-play hero shooter that is quickly amassing a fanbase. In response, Blizzard is planning a major Spotlight event for Overwatch 2 on February 12. Fans can expect previews of new heroes, maps, and “groundbreaking” PvP updates. Although the details of the event are under wraps, Blizzard has already provided a taste of what to expect in Season 15 with this upcoming change.

Game director Aaron Keller has confirmed that the Clash game mode, which includes maps inspired by the old Assault maps that were phased out of Quick Play and Competitive games years ago, will be shelved from Competitive Play. According to Blizzard, Clash has some issues leading to fast-paced games that feel more like steamrolls, leaving players perplexed over which objectives to focus on. To sort these issues out, Clash will be pulled from Competitive Play starting February 18, though it will still be accessible in Quick Play and other unranked modes.

I’ve always found no major frustration playing Clash in Overwatch 2. Sure, there are times when my team might get steamrolled, wrapping up the match rapidly, but I see that as a positive. I’d rather get a quick defeat than drag out the inevitable with longer engagements in Overwatch 2’s competitive matches.

Season 15 of Overwatch 2, by the way, is anticipated to kick off on Tuesday, February 18.

If I had a say in dismissing any game mode from Overwatch 2’s Competitive Play, my vote would go to Flashpoint. Ever since its addition, I have had mixed feelings about it. Though speed boosts at spawn points have made it slightly more enjoyable, Flashpoint remains my least favorite mode. Ideally, I’d prefer Blizzard to retain all modes, including the Assault maps, as they keep the game diverse and engaging for long play sessions, even if they sometimes lead to frustrating game moments.