Why Aren’t All My Characters Unlocked in Overwatch 2?
The reality is, if you’re diving into Overwatch 2 for the first time, or even if you’re a returning Overwatch 1 veteran, you might find that not all heroes are immediately available. This is by design, a shift in the game’s structure that’s generated considerable discussion and, sometimes, confusion. Primarily, the reason you don’t have immediate access to all heroes stems from Overwatch 2‘s new player experience, where newer players need to unlock original heroes by playing games. Also, newer heroes are often tied to the battle pass system or special challenges, which must be completed to gain access. This has significantly altered the way players experience the game compared to the original Overwatch, where all heroes were unlocked upon purchase. It’s a deliberate attempt to ease new players into the game and to provide a sense of progression. However, this system, while intending to be beneficial, hasn’t been without its criticisms, as it changes the fundamental access players have to the entire roster.
Understanding Hero Unlocks in Overwatch 2
The New Player Experience
Overwatch 2 implemented a “First Time User Experience” (FTUE) for new players. This means that those jumping into the game for the first time don’t get immediate access to the entire roster of original heroes. Instead, they must unlock heroes through gameplay, specifically by completing a certain number of matches.
The goal of this system is to prevent new players from being overwhelmed by the sheer number of heroes and abilities available. By gradually unlocking heroes, the game aims to provide a more manageable learning curve. This allows new players to get a feel for the core gameplay mechanics and hero roles before being exposed to the full complexity of the roster. While well-intentioned, some experienced players find this system frustrating on secondary accounts.
Battle Pass Heroes
One of the most significant changes in Overwatch 2 is the introduction of the battle pass system. New heroes are often tied to the battle pass, meaning that players must progress through the tiers of the battle pass to unlock them.
There are typically two ways to unlock a new hero through the battle pass. The first is to purchase the premium battle pass, which grants immediate access to the new hero at Tier 1. The second is to progress through the free battle pass, which unlocks the new hero at a later tier (typically around Tier 45 or 55). This system has been controversial, as it essentially locks new heroes behind a paywall or a time investment.
Challenges and Special Events
In addition to the battle pass, some heroes may be unlocked through special challenges or events. These challenges typically involve completing specific tasks in the game, such as winning a certain number of matches with a particular role or using a specific ability a certain number of times.
Special events may also offer opportunities to unlock heroes or earn exclusive skins and other rewards. These events are usually time-limited, so players must act quickly to take advantage of them. These kinds of challenges create a compelling learning environment, where players can develop new skills, as supported by research from the GamesLearningSociety.org.
Glitches and Bugs
Sometimes, heroes may appear to be locked due to glitches or bugs in the game. This is particularly common after major updates or patches.
If you encounter this issue, the first thing you should try is restarting the game. This can often resolve temporary glitches and restore your access to the locked heroes. If restarting the game doesn’t work, you may need to contact Blizzard Support for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many matches do I need to play to unlock all the original heroes?
Generally, it takes around 150 matches to unlock all the heroes from the original Overwatch. The number can vary slightly, but it’s a good estimate to keep in mind.
2. Can I unlock heroes faster?
Unfortunately, there isn’t a guaranteed method to speed up the unlocking process. Simply playing more matches is the most reliable way to unlock heroes efficiently.
3. Are heroes locked behind the battle pass?
Yes, newer heroes are typically tied to the battle pass. You can either unlock them immediately by purchasing the premium battle pass or unlock them by reaching a specific tier in the free battle pass.
4. What happens if I don’t unlock a hero during their release season?
If you miss a hero’s release season, you’ll still be able to unlock them through hero challenges. These challenges are usually available after the season ends and provide an alternative way to earn the hero.
5. Why is a hero like Sigma locked in Ranked?
Sometimes, heroes are temporarily disabled in Overwatch 2 ranked due to game-breaking bugs or glitches. This is done to maintain the integrity of the competitive mode. Sigma, for example, has been disabled due to a bug that allowed him to fly infinitely with his ultimate.
6. How do I merge my accounts in Overwatch 2?
To merge your accounts, launch Overwatch 2 on your connected console and select the “Account Merge” option. Follow the prompts to confirm the accounts being connected are correct. This process is crucial for players migrating from Overwatch 1 to ensure their progress carries over.
7. Why are my Overwatch characters suddenly locked?
This can be due to the new player experience if the game mistakenly identifies you as a new player. Try restarting the game to fix this. If that doesn’t work, contacting Blizzard support may be necessary.
8. Is Kiriko still locked?
Kiriko might appear locked in the hero gallery if she is unavailable in Competitive Play for a set period after her release. However, you can still play her in other game modes.
9. How do I unlock Genji in Overwatch 2?
Genji can be unlocked relatively early in the new player experience, often after playing only a few matches. The order in which heroes are unlocked may vary.
10. Is Kiriko unlocked for Overwatch 1 players?
Even for Overwatch 1 players, Kiriko is unlocked through the battle pass. You’ll either need to purchase the premium battle pass for immediate access or reach Tier 55 on the free battle pass.
11. Why is a character like Torbjorn locked?
Blizzard sometimes temporarily removes heroes like Torbjorn from certain matchmaking modes due to bugs with their abilities. This ensures fair gameplay while they work on a fix.
12. Is Kiriko a battle pass exclusive?
Kiriko is primarily unlocked through the battle pass. Premium battle pass holders gain immediate access, while free battle pass players unlock her at Tier 55.
13. Can you unlock Ramattra for free?
Yes, Ramattra can be unlocked for free by reaching Level 45 in the battle pass during his release season. Alternatively, you can purchase the premium battle pass to unlock him immediately.
14. Are there any other ways to unlock heroes apart from playing matches or using the battle pass?
Sometimes, Blizzard runs special events or promotions that offer opportunities to unlock heroes or skins. Keep an eye on the Overwatch 2 news and social media channels for announcements.
15. What if I still have problems unlocking heroes?
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and are still experiencing issues, the best course of action is to contact Blizzard Support directly. They can provide personalized assistance and help resolve any persistent problems with your account.
Unlocking heroes in Overwatch 2 requires patience and persistence. Understanding the different methods, from the new player experience to the battle pass, is essential. With a bit of effort and dedication, you’ll be able to assemble your favorite team and dominate the battlefield. Remember to also keep an eye out for announcements from the Games Learning Society to learn more about the intersection of learning and gaming.