Unlocking Kiriko in Overwatch 2: A Comprehensive Guide

Kiriko, the agile support hero with healing ofuda and deadly kunai, quickly became a fan favorite in Overwatch 2. However, unlike the original Overwatch, unlocking new heroes in Overwatch 2 requires a bit more effort, especially for newer players. This guide breaks down exactly how to unlock Kiriko in Overwatch 2, providing you with all the information you need to add this powerful hero to your roster.

The primary methods for unlocking Kiriko are tied to the Battle Pass system and Hero Challenges. If you owned the original Overwatch before Overwatch 2 launched, Kiriko, along with Sojourn and Junker Queen, were automatically unlocked. But for new players jumping into the Overwatch universe with Overwatch 2, the process is a little different.

• Battle Pass Method: This is generally the fastest route. In seasons after her initial release, Kiriko is available to unlock within the Battle Pass. You’ll need to progress through the Battle Pass tiers by earning experience points (XP). The specific tier at which Kiriko unlocks can vary between seasons, so always check the Battle Pass overview when a new season begins. You do not need to purchase the Premium Battle Pass to unlock Kiriko; she is available on the free track, though progression will be slower.
• Hero Challenges: If you missed the season where Kiriko was featured in the Battle Pass, or simply didn’t reach the required tier, don’t fret! Blizzard introduced Hero Challenges as a way to unlock previously released heroes. These challenges typically involve completing a series of in-game tasks using various heroes and abilities. Check your “Challenges” tab in-game to see if Kiriko’s Hero Challenges are active and available for completion.

Essentially, you’re either grinding through the Battle Pass by playing regularly and completing daily/weekly challenges or tackling specific Hero Challenges designed to showcase your understanding of Overwatch 2’s mechanics. Choose the method that best suits your playstyle and time commitment. Let’s delve deeper into each method.

Battle Pass Unlocking: A Tier-by-Tier Ascent

The Battle Pass is your main hub for unlocking cosmetic rewards and, crucially, heroes like Kiriko. Here’s a breakdown:

• XP is King: Everything you do in Overwatch 2, from playing matches to completing challenges, awards XP. The more XP you earn, the faster you progress through the Battle Pass tiers.
• Daily and Weekly Challenges: Prioritize these! They offer a significant boost to your XP gains compared to simply playing matches. Focus on completing as many challenges as possible each day and week.
• Premium Battle Pass (Optional): While not required to unlock Kiriko, the Premium Battle Pass offers accelerated progression, giving you bonus XP and additional challenges to complete. If you plan on playing Overwatch 2 regularly, it can be a worthwhile investment to unlock Kiriko (and subsequent heroes) more quickly.
• Check the Battle Pass Overview: Always examine the Battle Pass at the start of each season. Identify the tier at which Kiriko (or any other hero you’re aiming for) is unlocked. This knowledge will help you strategize your gameplay and prioritize your XP-earning activities.

Hero Challenges: A Test of Skill and Knowledge

Hero Challenges are a welcome addition to Overwatch 2, providing a structured path for unlocking heroes outside of the Battle Pass system. Here’s how they work:

• Access the Challenges Tab: Navigate to the “Challenges” tab in the Overwatch 2 main menu. Look for the Hero Challenges section and check if Kiriko’s challenges are available.
• Understand the Objectives: Each Hero Challenge consists of a series of in-game tasks. These tasks can range from dealing a certain amount of damage with specific heroes to healing allies, using ultimates effectively, and winning matches in specific game modes.
• Diversify Your Gameplay: Hero Challenges often require you to play different heroes and experiment with various playstyles. This encourages you to become a more well-rounded Overwatch 2 player, enhancing your overall skill and understanding of the game.
• Track Your Progress: The Challenges tab allows you to monitor your progress on each objective. Use this to keep track of what you need to do to complete the challenges and unlock Kiriko.
• Focus and Conquer: Dedicate time to focusing specifically on the Hero Challenges to unlock Kiriko efficiently. Choose heroes and game modes that align with the challenge requirements.

Alternative Methods (For New Players)

Since the launch of Overwatch 2, the game requires new players to complete the First Time User Experience (FTUE) to unlock all the original Overwatch heroes. Here’s what that means for unlocking Kiriko:

• Complete FTUE: New accounts must play through a set of introductory challenges designed to teach the basics of the game. This process unlocks the original Overwatch heroes and gives new players a foundational understanding of gameplay.
• Kiriko Remains Locked Initially: Even after completing the FTUE, Kiriko will still be locked for new players. You’ll then need to utilize either the Battle Pass or Hero Challenges methods described above.

Conclusion

Unlocking Kiriko in Overwatch 2 requires either dedicated progression through the Battle Pass or successful completion of Hero Challenges. Choose the path that best suits your playstyle and commitment level. Remember to prioritize daily and weekly challenges to maximize your XP gains and track your progress within the Challenges tab. With a little effort, you’ll be weaving through the battlefield as Kiriko in no time!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Unlocking Kiriko

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide even more clarity on unlocking Kiriko in Overwatch 2.

1. Do I need to pay to unlock Kiriko?

No, you do not need to pay to unlock Kiriko. While the Premium Battle Pass offers accelerated progression, Kiriko can be unlocked on the free track of the Battle Pass or through Hero Challenges, both of which are available to all players.

2. How long does it take to unlock Kiriko?

The time it takes to unlock Kiriko varies depending on your playstyle and commitment. Progressing through the Battle Pass can take several weeks of regular play. Hero Challenges can be completed more quickly if you focus specifically on them.

3. Can I use Overwatch Coins to unlock Kiriko?

While Overwatch Coins can be used to purchase the Premium Battle Pass (which accelerates Kiriko unlocking), they cannot directly unlock Kiriko.

4. What happens if I don’t unlock Kiriko during the Battle Pass season she is featured in?

If you missed the Battle Pass season where Kiriko was featured, you can unlock her through Hero Challenges. Check the Challenges tab in-game to see if her challenges are active.

5. Are Hero Challenges permanent?

The availability of specific Hero Challenges can vary. While Blizzard aims to keep Hero Challenges accessible, it’s always best to check regularly to ensure you don’t miss the opportunity to unlock a specific hero.

6. Do I need to be good at Overwatch 2 to complete the Hero Challenges?

While some challenges may require a degree of skill, many are designed to be accessible to players of all skill levels. The challenges are often focused on learning and utilizing different aspects of the game.

7. Can I complete Hero Challenges in custom games?

Generally, Hero Challenges must be completed in standard game modes such as Quick Play, Competitive Play, and Arcade modes. Custom games typically do not count towards challenge progress.

8. Does playing with friends increase my chances of unlocking Kiriko faster?

Playing with friends can make the game more enjoyable and potentially increase your XP gains if you win more matches. However, there is no direct bonus to Battle Pass progression specifically for playing with friends.

9. If I unlock Kiriko through Hero Challenges, do I still get any associated rewards from the Battle Pass?

No. Unlocking Kiriko through Hero Challenges does not grant you any of the rewards associated with the Battle Pass tiers she would have been located in. You only unlock the hero herself.

10. What if I already owned Overwatch 1?

If you owned Overwatch 1 before the launch of Overwatch 2, you should have automatically unlocked Kiriko, along with Sojourn and Junker Queen.

11. How do I know which tier of the Battle Pass Kiriko is unlocked at?

Check the Battle Pass overview at the beginning of each season. The overview clearly shows which rewards are unlocked at each tier, including new heroes.

12. Can I unlock Kiriko in Competitive Play?

Yes, you can earn XP towards the Battle Pass by playing Competitive Play. Furthermore, Hero Challenges can often be completed in Competitive Play, provided the challenge requirements are met.

13. What if I encounter a bug preventing me from completing a Hero Challenge?

Report the bug to Blizzard’s support team through their official website. They can investigate the issue and potentially provide a solution.

14. Are Kiriko’s abilities different for players who unlock her through the Battle Pass vs. Hero Challenges?

No. The method by which you unlock Kiriko does not affect her abilities or gameplay. All players have access to the same hero mechanics.

15. Will more heroes be unlocked through similar methods in the future?

Yes, Blizzard has indicated that new heroes will generally be unlocked through the Battle Pass or Hero Challenges in future seasons. This provides a consistent framework for players to acquire new content.