How to Unlock Kiriko in Overwatch 2: A Comprehensive Guide

Kiriko, the agile and potent support hero from Overwatch 2, has captured the hearts of players with her unique blend of healing, damage, and mobility. Initially, unlocking her required a bit of effort, but the current system offers more straightforward options. Here’s a breakdown of how to unlock Kiriko: You can instantly unlock Kiriko by purchasing the premium Battle Pass. Alternatively, she can be earned for free by progressing through the free tiers of the Battle Pass or by completing specific Hero Challenges.

Understanding the Unlock Methods

Overwatch 2 utilizes a Battle Pass system for unlocking new heroes. This offers two primary pathways to acquire Kiriko:

• Premium Battle Pass: Purchasing the premium Battle Pass immediately grants access to Kiriko. This is the quickest and most direct route.
• Free Battle Pass and Hero Challenges: Players can unlock Kiriko without spending money by progressing through the free tiers of the Battle Pass. Previously, reaching a specific tier (Level 55 in earlier seasons) would unlock the hero. However, with the introduction of Hero Challenges, players can now complete a series of specific tasks to unlock Kiriko, regardless of their Battle Pass level.

Navigating Hero Challenges

Hero Challenges are now the primary method for free players to unlock heroes like Kiriko. Here’s how they generally work:

1. Access the Hero Challenges: Navigate to the “Challenges” section within Overwatch 2’s main menu.
2. Locate Kiriko’s Challenge: Find the specific challenge dedicated to unlocking Kiriko.
3. Review the Objectives: Carefully read the challenge objectives. These usually involve a mix of winning games with specific roles (Support or All Roles), utilizing Kiriko’s abilities in Practice Range, and achieving certain in-game feats.
4. Activate the Challenge: Make sure the challenge is activated.
5. Complete the Objectives: Begin playing matches and working towards the challenge goals. Progress will be tracked within the challenge menu.
6. Claim Your Reward: Once all objectives are completed, claim Kiriko as your reward!

Example Challenge Objectives

While the exact objectives may vary, expect to encounter tasks similar to these:

• Wins for Kiriko: Win a certain number of games (e.g., 35) while queued as “All Roles” or playing Support heroes in Quick Play, Competitive, or No Limits.
• Practice Range Mastery: Practice Kunai Crits: Get a specific number of critical hits with Kiriko’s Kunai in the Practice Range.
• Ability Usage: Successfully use Kiriko’s Protection Suzu to save allies from critical damage a specific number of times.
• Ultimate Effectiveness: Assist teammates with Kiriko’s Kitsune Rush ultimate a certain number of times.

Tips for Efficient Unlocking

• Focus on Support: Prioritize playing as Support heroes in Quick Play or other unranked modes. This will help you learn the role and contribute to the “Wins for Kiriko” objective.
• Master Kiriko’s Abilities: Dedicate time to practicing Kiriko’s abilities in the Practice Range. Familiarize yourself with her healing Ofuda, Protection Suzu, and Kunai.
• Coordinate with Your Team: Communication and teamwork are crucial for winning matches. Use voice chat or text chat to coordinate strategies and support your teammates.
• Track Your Progress: Regularly check the Hero Challenge menu to monitor your progress and adjust your gameplay accordingly.
• Stay Positive: Don’t get discouraged by losses. Focus on improving your skills and contributing to your team.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Is Kiriko still locked for new players?

Yes, Kiriko is locked for new players who didn’t own the original Overwatch. They need to either purchase the premium Battle Pass or complete her Hero Challenges.

How do I access Hero Challenges?

Hero Challenges can be accessed from the main menu of Overwatch 2. Look for the “Challenges” section and navigate to the hero-specific challenges.

Does purchasing the premium Battle Pass instantly unlock Kiriko?

Yes, purchasing the premium Battle Pass immediately unlocks Kiriko.

Can I get Kiriko without spending money?

Yes, you can unlock Kiriko for free by completing her Hero Challenges.

Are there any other ways to unlock Kiriko besides the Battle Pass and Hero Challenges?

Currently, the Battle Pass and Hero Challenges are the only official ways to unlock Kiriko.

How long does it take to unlock Kiriko for free?

The time it takes to unlock Kiriko for free depends on your skill level, playtime, and how efficiently you complete the Hero Challenges. It can take several hours or days of dedicated play.

What game modes can I play to complete Kiriko’s Hero Challenges?

Generally, you can complete Hero Challenges in Quick Play, Competitive Play, and No Limits. Check the specific challenge description for any mode restrictions.

What if I owned Overwatch 1?

Players who owned the original Overwatch and claimed the Watchpoint Pack may have had Kiriko unlocked automatically at launch. However, this offer may no longer be available.

Why was Kiriko locked from Competitive Play initially?

New heroes are often locked from Competitive Play for a couple of weeks after their release to allow players time to learn the hero and prevent imbalances in ranked matches.

Is Kiriko a good hero to play?

Yes, Kiriko is considered a strong and versatile support hero. Her healing output, mobility, and damage potential make her a valuable asset to any team. She is considered one of the best support characters in the game for her survivability and high damage output.

What are Kiriko’s key abilities?

Kiriko’s key abilities include:

• Healing Ofuda: A burst of healing talismans that seek out allies.
• Kunai: A ranged weapon that deals increased critical damage.
• Protection Suzu: A projectile that grants temporary invulnerability and cleanses negative effects.
• Swift Step: A teleport ability that allows Kiriko to instantly move to an ally.
• Kitsune Rush: Kiriko’s ultimate ability that creates a path of accelerated movement speed, attack speed, and reload speed for her team.

How old is Kiriko?

Kiriko is 21 years old.

Did Torbjorn really lose his arm?

Yes, Torbjorn lost his arm during a mission in Turkey. This is part of Overwatch lore.

Why are some heroes locked in Overwatch 2?

Heroes are locked to encourage players to engage with the Battle Pass system and Hero Challenges, providing a progression system and sense of accomplishment.

How does Overwatch 2 compare to traditional learning?

Overwatch 2, like many games, teaches players valuable skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. To explore the educational aspects of gaming further, visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Unlocking Kiriko requires either purchasing the premium Battle Pass for immediate access or dedicating time to completing her Hero Challenges, a free option for all players. This provides an equitable approach, letting players choose their path based on preference and resources. Good luck, and enjoy playing as Kiriko!