As promised, Blizzard Entertainment is giving 6v6 team comps another shot in Overwatch 2 with a new limited-time experimental mode for its hero shooter. The 6v6 Role Queue experiment will bring back the two-tank, two-damage, two-support team structure from the original Overwatch for three weeks, as well as some big changes, particularly for tanks. Say goodbye to Roadhog’s Pig Pen, Reinhardt’s dual-charge Fire Strikes, and Wrecking Ball’s ability to share his shields with allies in this experimental mode.
Of course, there are balance changes for damage and support heroes as well during the 6v6 Role Queue experiment. Some damage heroes will do a little more damage, while some supports will output a bit more healing. The list of changes is long, and worth familiarizing yourself with, so that you can hop into the new 6v6 mode with the right expectations.
Blizzard is incentivizing logins during the currently underway Winter Wonderland event, and is handing out three free skins for Overwatch 2 players who complete a certain number of games. Completing three games will grant the Merry Marionette Echo Legendary Skin; six will unlock Cassidy’s new cozy sweater Legendary and highlight intro; while nine games will unlock Widowmaker’s chic winter Legendary and highlight intro.
Overwatch 2’s 6v6 Role Queue experiment runs from Dec. 17 to Jan. 6, 2025. Read on for the full list of changes in Blizzard’s patch notes, available below.
Overwatch 2 6v6 Experiment – December 17, 2024 Patch Notes
6v6 Experiment – 2-2-2 Role Queue
Revisit the roots of Overwatch with the 6v6 Role Queue experiment, bringing back the structured 2-2-2 team composition for a limited time. This mode combines the thrill of the original six-player team dynamic with the strategic depth of Overwatch 2’s updated heroes and abilities. Dive in to experience a new balance of strategy, adaptability, and pure team synergy—showcasing how modern Overwatch gameplay thrives in a classic format.
The 6v6 Experiment will be available to play in the Unranked Menu from December 17 to January 6.
This mode uses the Role Queue Ruleset comprised of 2 Tank Heroes, 2 Damage Heroes, and 2 Support Heroes.
Map selection and gameplay is based on the Quick Play ruleset.
To accommodate the 6v6 format, multiple heroes received balance changes that better suit their abilities in the 6v6 format. These changes are only applied for this mode and are adjusted from the most recent hero balance from the December 10 Patch.
Base health regeneration timer increased from 5 to 7 seconds.
