Unleashing the Beast Within: Overwatch 2 Season 8 Arrives with New Tank Hero and Weapon Customizations

Embarking on its eighth season on December 5th, Overwatch 2 ushers in an era of wild pursuit with "Call of the Hunt." Blizzard unveiled through a post on their blog that players will be greeted by the new tank hero, Mauga, accessible through the battle pass. Those who opt for the premium battle pass will gain immediate access, while others can look forward to unlocking him at tier 45 of the free version. This season also marks the debut of weapon skins in the game. With the new additions, heroes such as Mercy, Reinhardt, and Reaper will be able to wield Hard Light weapon skins, which can be paired with any of their existing outfits, offering a new level of visual customization beyond the previously available golden guns that players could obtain through competitive play.

"Call of the Hunt" plunges players into a beast hunter-themed environment, reflected in the new range of hero skins, including distinctive looks for Junker Queen, Mauga, and Ana. The premium battle pass will feature some of these skins, and others will be available for purchase in the in-game shop as the season progresses. The ultimate battle pass prize is a Mythic skin transforming Orisa into a formidable beast, further enhancing the season's feral motif.

Additionally, the season introduces a novel arcade mode to Overwatch 2, where two quartets of players face off to defeat a beastly version of Orisa.

The Christmas cheer returns with the Winter Wonderland event on December 19th, reviving fan-favorite activities such as Mei's Snowball Offensive and the Yeti Hunt. This festive period also gives players the chance to secure one of three legendary skins for Cassidy, Baptiste, and Illari. Winter Wonderland is slated to bring new legendary skins to the shop, including one for Mercy, which had only been featured in past event artwork.

On January 30th, the festive energy continues with the Lunar New Year celebration. This event will feature an updated prop hunt mode in the Lijiang Night Market map, and the return of the Capture the Flag and Bounty Hunter Deathmatch arcade modes, alongside new legendary skins waiting in the shop.

Get ready to join the fray as Overwatch 2 Season 8: Call of the Hunt commences on December 5th, blending the thrill of the chase with festive joy in the world of competitive gaming.