Does Overwatch Have In-Game Currency? A Comprehensive Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, Overwatch and Overwatch 2 both utilize in-game currencies. However, the specifics and acquisition methods have evolved significantly between the two games. Overwatch 2 uses a multi-tiered currency system, including Overwatch Coins, Credits, and Overwatch League Tokens, each serving distinct purposes. Let’s delve into the intricacies of these currencies, how to earn them, and what they can be used for.
Understanding Overwatch 2’s Currency System
Overwatch 2 moved away from the loot box system of the original Overwatch to a battle pass and in-game shop model. This change also brought about a shift in how in-game currency functions. Understanding these differences is crucial for any Overwatch 2 player.
Overwatch Coins: The Premium Currency
Overwatch Coins are the primary premium currency in Overwatch 2. They are used to purchase:
- The Premium Battle Pass: Unlock exclusive rewards and content throughout a season.
- Cosmetic Items: Customize your heroes with skins, emotes, victory poses, and more in the in-game shop.
- Bundles: Purchase collections of cosmetic items at a discounted rate.
Acquiring Overwatch Coins:
- Direct Purchase: The most straightforward method is to buy them directly from the in-game store or through the Battle.net website. They are typically priced around $1 for 100 Coins.
- Weekly Challenges: Completing weekly challenges provides a limited but consistent source of free Overwatch Coins. The number earned each week varies based on the number of challenges completed. The more challenges you complete, the more coins you earn. This offers a good way for players to acquire cosmetics.
- Microsoft Rewards Points: Linking your Microsoft account can allow you to redeem reward points for Overwatch Coins.
- Promotional Events: Blizzard occasionally offers free Overwatch Coins during special events. It is always good to stay in touch with promotional offers.
Credits: The Legacy Currency
Credits are a legacy currency carried over from the original Overwatch. These are primarily used to purchase older cosmetic items that were available in the original game. They offer returning players a way to unlock some of their favorite skins without spending real money.
Acquiring Credits:
- Battle Pass: Credits can be earned through both the free and premium tiers of the Battle Pass. You are more likely to earn a lot more through the premium tiers of the Battle Pass.
- One-Time Compensations: In the past, Blizzard has granted credits to players as compensation for game issues or specific events. This is usually done so that players who have encountered an issue can acquire cosmetics in the shop.
Important Note: New Legacy Credits cannot be earned in the game, so it’s vital to spend them strategically on items you really want.
Overwatch League Tokens: Supporting the Pros
Overwatch League (OWL) Tokens are a separate currency used specifically to purchase Overwatch League-themed cosmetic items. These include team skins for your favorite heroes, allowing you to show your support for the professional Overwatch scene.
Acquiring OWL Tokens:
- Watching Live Overwatch League Matches: You earn tokens by watching live Overwatch League matches on eligible platforms. The rate is typically five tokens per hour watched.
- OWL Token Grants: Blizzard may occasionally offer OWL tokens as rewards for participating in promotions or events related to the Overwatch League.
Strategies for Managing Your Overwatch 2 Currencies
With three different currencies to manage, it’s essential to develop a strategy for spending them wisely.
- Prioritize Premium Battle Passes: If you play Overwatch 2 regularly, investing in the Premium Battle Pass is often the most cost-effective way to acquire a large number of cosmetic items and other rewards.
- Save Credits for Favorite Skins: Since Legacy Credits are limited, use them to purchase skins for your most-played heroes or those that hold sentimental value from the original Overwatch.
- Support Your Favorite OWL Teams: If you enjoy watching the Overwatch League, accumulate OWL tokens to purchase team skins and show your support.
- Complete Weekly Challenges: Consistently completing weekly challenges is a reliable way to earn free Overwatch Coins over time.
The Evolution of Overwatch Currency
The shift from the original Overwatch’s loot box system to Overwatch 2’s battle pass and in-game shop model represents a significant change in the game’s economy. While some players miss the randomness of loot boxes, the new system provides greater transparency and control over what you unlock.
The introduction of a multi-tiered currency system adds complexity but also offers more avenues for players to acquire cosmetic items, whether through direct purchase, dedicated gameplay, or supporting the professional scene. This system provides something for everyone, regardless of playstyle.
FAQs: Navigating Overwatch 2’s Currency System
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the intricacies of Overwatch 2’s currency system:
1. Can I earn Overwatch Coins without paying?
Yes, by completing weekly challenges and participating in promotional events. You can earn small but consistent amounts of Coins through these methods. Some players have also reported getting them for a limited time by logging into the game during the first week of Season 7.
2. What can I buy with Credits in Overwatch 2?
Credits can primarily purchase older cosmetic items, such as skins, emotes, and victory poses, that were available in the original Overwatch.
3. How do I get Overwatch League Tokens?
You earn them by watching live Overwatch League matches on eligible platforms. Your viewing time is tracked, and you receive tokens for every hour watched.
4. What happened to my old Overwatch loot boxes?
Loot boxes are no longer available in Overwatch 2. Any unopened loot boxes from the original Overwatch were automatically opened and the contents added to your account when you transitioned to Overwatch 2.
5. Is Overwatch 2 truly free-to-play?
Yes, Overwatch 2 is free-to-play. However, in-game purchases are available for cosmetic items and the Premium Battle Pass. These purchases are optional and are not required to play the game.
6. How much does the Premium Battle Pass cost?
The Premium Battle Pass typically costs 1,000 Overwatch Coins, which is equivalent to approximately $10 USD.
7. Can I gift Overwatch Coins to another player?
No, there is currently no feature in Overwatch 2 to gift Overwatch Coins or other currencies to other players.
8. Do I need PlayStation Plus or Xbox Live Gold to play Overwatch 2?
No, you do not need PlayStation Plus or Xbox Live Gold to play Overwatch 2 online.
9. What if my Overwatch Coins are missing?
Try logging out of Overwatch and the Battle.net Desktop App completely, then logging back in. This often resolves display issues.
10. Can I use Credits to buy the Premium Battle Pass?
No, Credits cannot be used to purchase the Premium Battle Pass. The Premium Battle Pass can only be purchased with Overwatch Coins.
11. Are Overwatch Coins and Credits the same thing?
No, Overwatch Coins and Credits are different currencies. Coins can buy everything, while credits can buy only select cosmetics.
12. How did Blizzard respond to Overwatch 2 criticism?
Blizzard acknowledged the criticism and stated their plan to “move forward” by “adding to and improving Overwatch 2.” This included addressing concerns about expensive microtransactions and introducing more ways to earn free rewards.
13. Can you buy legendary skins with Credits in Overwatch 2?
Yes, To coincide with the release of season 3, Overwatch 2 is reintroducing Overwatch credits, giving players ways to earn those credits via battle pass progression, and adding Overwatch’s epic and legendary skins to its shop at reduced prices.
14. Why are they getting rid of Overwatch?
Activision Blizzard could afford to keep both games’ servers up, but has stated that the decision to replace the current Overwatch build with Overwatch 2 was made so that the franchise’s fanbase wouldn’t be divided.
15. Why can’t i buy skins in Overwatch 2?
If you cannot buy any cosmetic on your account, some restrictions may be in place: The parental control feature could be active on your account, Overwatch 2 in-game purchases are subject to regional restrictions, or there is a pending account console merge to your Battle.net account.
Overwatch and Overwatch 2 have a complex currency system. While it is easy to spend real money on the game, understanding how to earn free currency is the key to succeeding.
To learn more about the design and impact of games on learning, consider exploring resources from organizations like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.