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Unlocking characters in Overwatch 2 can be a daunting task, especially for new players. With the game’s expansive roster of heroes, it can be challenging to know where to start. However, there are several methods to acquire these characters, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the various ways to unlock Overwatch 2 characters, empowering you to assemble the ultimate team and dominate the battlefield.
One of the most straightforward methods is through the in-game currency. Coins, which can be earned by completing matches and leveling up, can be used to purchase characters directly from the Hero Gallery. While this option provides instant access, it can be time-consuming to accumulate sufficient coins. Additionally, newly released heroes often have higher prices, making them more challenging to acquire.
Introducing the Overwatch 2 Character Roster
Overwatch 2 introduces a diverse roster of 35 playable characters, each boasting unique abilities, playstyles, and backstories. From the agile Tracer to the colossal Reinhardt, there’s a character for every player and strategic situation.
Origins:
The Overwatch 2 character roster spans a wide range of organizations, governments, and factions:
| Origin | Characters |
|---|---|
| Overwatch | Ana, Bastion, D.Va, Genji, Hanzo, Junkrat, Lúcio, McCree, Mei, Mercy, Pharah, Reinhardt, Reaper, Soldier: 76, Sombra, Symmetra, Tracer, Widowmaker, Winston, Zarya |
| Talon | Baptiste, Doomfist, Moira, Reaper, Sigma, Torbjörn, Wrecking Ball |
| Vishkar Corporation | Symmetra, Zenyatta |
| Numbani | Doomfist, Orisa |
| International | Ashe, Cassidy, Echo, Sojourn |
Unlocking Characters through Gameplay
There are two main ways to unlock characters in Overwatch 2: through gameplay or by purchasing them directly with in-game currency or real-world money. Let’s take a closer look at how you can unlock characters simply by playing the game.
Earning Character Contracts through the Battle Pass
The Battle Pass is a seasonal progression system that offers a variety of rewards, including new characters. By completing challenges and earning Battle Pass experience, you can unlock new levels and claim rewards, such as character contracts. A character contract allows you to unlock a single character permanently without spending any in-game currency or real money.
Table of Character Contracts in Overwatch 2 Battle Pass
| Battle Pass Tier | Character Contract |
|---|---|
| Tier 5 | Sojourn |
| Tier 20 | Junker Queen |
| Tier 35 | Kiriko |
Daily and Weekly Challenges
Completing certain daily and weekly challenges can also reward you with character contracts. These challenges typically involve performing specific actions or reaching certain milestones in matches. By completing these challenges, you can gradually earn enough character contracts to unlock new heroes.
Completing Challenges for Hero Access
To begin your journey to unlocking heroes in Overwatch 2 through challenges, you must first complete the First Time User Experience (FTUE). This introductory phase of the game will guide you through the basics of gameplay and introduce you to several core heroes. Once you have completed the FTUE, you will be presented with the Hero Challenges menu.
Hero Challenges consist of specific tasks and milestones that you must accomplish to unlock each character. These challenges can vary in difficulty and may require you to achieve certain goals during matches, such as getting a specific number of eliminations with a particular weapon or using specific abilities effectively.
Unveiling the Hero Challenge Structure
The Hero Challenge structure in Overwatch 2 is designed to provide a gradual and engaging path to unlocking heroes. Each hero has a set of challenges that are divided into three tiers:
| Challenge Tier | Description |
|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Basic challenges that introduce you to the hero’s gameplay and abilities. |
| Tier 2 | Intermediate challenges that require you to demonstrate proficiency with the hero’s core mechanics. |
| Tier 3 | Advanced challenges that test your mastery of the hero’s unique abilities and playstyles. |
Purchasing the Battle Pass
The Battle Pass is a tiered system that grants rewards as you level up by completing challenges and earning experience. By purchasing the Battle Pass, you can unlock new characters, skins, and other cosmetic items faster than by playing the game for free.
There are two tiers of the Battle Pass: the free tier and the premium tier. The free tier grants access to some rewards, while the premium tier grants access to all rewards, including new characters.
To purchase the Battle Pass, you must first open the Overwatch 2 game client. Once the game is open, click on the Battle Pass icon in the top-right corner of the screen. You will then be presented with the option to purchase the Battle Pass for 1000 Overwatch Coins.
Once you have purchased the Battle Pass, you will be able to start earning rewards by completing challenges and earning experience. You can track your progress towards unlocking new rewards by clicking on the Battle Pass icon in the top-right corner of the screen.
The Battle Pass season lasts for approximately 9 weeks. At the end of the season, all progress and rewards earned from the Battle Pass will be reset.
Battle Pass Tiers
The Battle Pass has 20 tiers, each with its own set of rewards. The following table lists the rewards available at each tier:
| Tier | Rewards |
|---|---|
| 1 | Kiriko (new hero) |
| 5 | Sojourn (new hero) |
| 10 | Junker Queen (new hero) |
| 20 | Mythic Genji skin |
Earning Battle Pass Points
You can earn Battle Pass points by completing challenges and earning experience. Challenges are specific tasks that you can complete to earn points, such as winning games, getting kills, or healing allies. Experience is earned by playing games and completing objectives.
You can also purchase Battle Pass points with Overwatch Coins. 100 Overwatch Coins will grant you 200 Battle Pass points.
Claiming Rewards
Once you have earned enough Battle Pass points to reach a new tier, you can claim the rewards for that tier by clicking on the “Claim” button next to the tier. You can also claim all rewards for previous tiers that you have not yet claimed.
Acquiring Heroes with Overwatch Coins
Unlocking heroes in Overwatch 2 can be done through various methods, and one of them is by using Overwatch Coins. Overwatch Coins are the in-game currency that can be purchased with real money or earned through gameplay. Heroes can be acquired with Overwatch Coins by purchasing them directly from the in-game store. Each hero costs 1,000 Overwatch Coins.
Here’s a detailed explanation of the steps involved in acquiring heroes with Overwatch Coins:
- Launch Overwatch 2 and log into your account.
- Navigate to the in-game store by clicking on the “Shop” icon located on the main menu.
- In the in-game store, select the “Heroes” tab to view all available heroes.
- Locate the hero you wish to unlock and click on the “Purchase” button.
- Confirm your purchase and provide the required Overwatch Coins. The hero will be unlocked immediately upon completing the transaction.
It’s important to note that the availability of heroes for purchase with Overwatch Coins may vary depending on the time and special events. Additionally, some heroes may be exclusive to certain editions of the game or obtained through other means, such as completing challenges or earning achievements.
| Hero | Overwatch Coins |
|---|---|
| Sojourn | 1,000 |
| Junker Queen | 1,000 |
| Kiriko | 1,000 |
| Ashe | 1,000 |
| Echo | 1,000 |
Participating in Competitive Matches
Competitive matches are a great way to earn experience and unlock characters in Overwatch 2. By winning matches, you’ll earn Competitive Points that can be used to purchase new heroes. The amount of Competitive Points you earn depends on your performance in the match, as well as your team’s overall performance.
Here are some tips for increasing your chances of winning Competitive Matches:
- Learn the game inside and out. This means understanding the different heroes, maps, and strategies.
- Play with a team. Teamwork is essential in Overwatch 2, so it’s important to find a group of players that you can work well with.
- Communicate with your team. Callouts, strats and tips can make a big difference in the outcome of a match.
- Practice, practice, practice. The more you play, the better you’ll become at the game.
- Don’t get discouraged if you lose. Everyone loses sometimes, so don’t get down on yourself if you don’t win every match.
- If you’re new to Overwatch 2, you may want to start by playing in Quick Play until you understand the game better and feel more confident in your abilities.
Competitive Match Rewards
In addition to Competitive Points, you’ll also earn other rewards for participating in Competitive Matches, including:
| Reward | Unlock criteria |
| Golden weapon | Win 300 Competitive Matches |
| Competitive mode icons | Win 100, 250, and 500 Competitive Matches |
| Competitive point rewards | Earned based on your performance in each match |
Utilizing the Watchpoint Pack
The Watchpoint Pack is a premium bundle that offers a convenient way to unlock all 35 Overwatch 2 characters, including Sojourn, Kiriko, Queen, and Ramattra. Purchasing the Watchpoint Pack grants you instant access to the following:
Immediate Access to All Current and Future Characters
Exclusive Legendary “Space Raider” Skins for Cassidy and Soldier: 76
2,000 Overwatch Coins, which can be used to purchase loot boxes or battle passes
One Season 1 Battle Pass, granting you access to exclusive cosmetics and progression rewards
Virtual Currency Bonus (up to 200% match on first purchase of Overwatch Coins)
Blizzard Shop Discounts on Overwatch-related merchandise
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Exclusive Legendary “Space Raider” Skins | Unique character skins inspired by the popular StarCraft franchise |
| 2,000 Overwatch Coins | In-game currency used to purchase cosmetic items, loot boxes, and the battle pass |
| Season 1 Battle Pass | Premium progression system granting exclusive rewards like skins, sprays, and emotes |
| Virtual Currency Bonus | Additional Overwatch Coins granted on your first purchase, providing extra value |
| Blizzard Shop Discounts | Special discounts on Overwatch-themed merchandise, such as apparel, collectibles, and art prints |
Exploring Hero Rotations
In Overwatch 2, the hero roster is periodically available for free through hero rotations. These rotations introduce a selected pool of heroes that players can use for a limited time. This allows players to experiment with different heroes, hone their skills, and adjust their strategies.
Hero rotations are typically updated weekly or bi-weekly, offering fresh opportunities to explore the ever-expanding roster of characters. By participating in hero rotations, players can identify new favorites, develop a more versatile skillset, and stay engaged with the dynamic gameplay of Overwatch 2.
Weekly Challenges
Weekly challenges present players with specific objectives and rewards. These challenges encourage engagement with different aspects of the game, such as winning matches, using specific heroes, or achieving certain milestones. By completing weekly challenges, players can earn valuable rewards, including hero unlocks.
Weekly challenges vary in difficulty and duration. Some challenges may be straightforward, requiring players to simply win a certain number of matches. Others may be more complex, involving tasks such as earning medals with specific heroes or using specific abilities to defeat enemies.
By consistently completing weekly challenges, players can accumulate rewards and unlock heroes at a steady pace. This method requires dedication and consistent gameplay but offers a rewarding sense of progression.
Rewards for Weekly Challenges
The rewards for completing weekly challenges vary depending on the challenge’s difficulty. In general, more challenging challenges yield more valuable rewards.
Some common rewards for completing weekly challenges include:
| Reward | Description |
| Hero unlocks | Gain access to new heroes immediately |
| Experience points | Boost your account level and unlock additional rewards |
| Battle pass points | Advance through the battle pass and earn exclusive cosmetic items |
| Loot boxes | Gain randomized cosmetic items for your heroes |
Utilizing Real-World Currency Purchases
For those who prefer to expedite the character unlocking process, Overwatch 2 offers the option to purchase characters directly using real-world currency. This method grants you immediate access to the selected characters without having to grind through gameplay or purchase the Battle Pass.
To purchase characters using real-world currency:
- Launch Overwatch 2 and log into your account.
- Navigate to the “Heroes” tab in the main menu.
- Locate the character you wish to unlock.
- Click on the character portrait and select the “Unlock” option.
- Choose the “Purchase Overwatch Coins” option.
- Select the desired amount of coins to purchase.
- Confirm your purchase using your preferred payment method.
- Once the purchase is complete, the character will be instantly unlocked and available for use.
The cost of unlocking characters using real-world currency varies depending on the character. However, most characters can be purchased for around 1,000 Overwatch Coins, which is equivalent to approximately $10 USD.
The following table provides a breakdown of the cost of unlocking each character using real-world currency:
| Character | Cost |
|---|---|
| Sojourn | 1,000 Overwatch Coins |
| Junker Queen | 1,000 Overwatch Coins |
| Kiriko | 1,000 Overwatch Coins |
| Ramattra | 1,000 Overwatch Coins |
Weekly Challenges
Complete weekly challenges to earn experience that contributes to your Battle Pass progress. Each challenge offers 500 XP, and there are usually three challenges available at a time. Focus on completing the challenges that align with your playstyle and preferred heroes.
Daily and Seasonal Challenges
Similar to weekly challenges, daily and seasonal challenges offer experience points upon completion. Daily challenges reset every 24 hours and provide 100 XP, while seasonal challenges offer larger XP rewards and last for the duration of the season. Completing these challenges consistently can accelerate your progress towards unlocking heroes.
Arcade Mode
Play games in the Arcade mode to earn experience towards your Battle Pass. Each Arcade game played grants 50 XP, making it a viable option for unlocking heroes if you enjoy the variety of game modes offered.
Custom Games
Create or join custom games and complete specific objectives to earn experience. While the XP rewards may be lower compared to other methods, custom games provide a controlled environment to practice your skills and unlock heroes at a steady pace.
Competitive Mode
Participate in competitive matches to earn experience and climb the competitive ladder. Winning matches grants more XP than losing, so strive to play your best and contribute to your team’s success.
Alternative Methods for Hero Unlocks
In addition to the primary methods mentioned above, there are alternative ways to unlock heroes in Overwatch 2.
Purchase the Watchpoint Pack
Purchasing the Watchpoint Pack grants instant access to Junker Queen, Sojourn, and Kiriko, the latest support hero. The pack also includes other bonuses, such as the Season 1 Premium Battle Pass, 2,000 Overwatch Coins, and a Legendary Skin for Sojourn.
Purchase Heroes with Overwatch Coins
If you have accumulated Overwatch Coins through gameplay or other means, you can purchase individual heroes from the Hero Gallery. The cost of each hero varies, typically ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 Overwatch Coins.
Attend Overwatch League Events
Participating in Overwatch League events, watching matches, or interacting with the community can grant you access to hero unlocks. Overwatch League partners often offer promotional campaigns and giveaways where participants have the chance to win hero unlocks, among other rewards.
Promotion and Rewards
Follow Overwatch’s social media accounts and participate in promotions and giveaways. Occasionally, the developers host contests or partner with other companies to offer free hero unlocks as rewards.
Free Rotations
Blizzard periodically makes certain heroes free to play during limited-time events known as free rotations. This provides an opportunity to try out and unlock heroes without having to spend resources.
How to Unlock Overwatch 2 Characters
There are several methods for unlocking characters in Overwatch 2:
- Complete the tutorial: You’ll get Cassidy, Sojourn, and Junker Queen after finishing the basic game tutorial.
- Play through the game: As you level up, you’ll unlock additional characters. The first 32 heroes can be unlocked this way.
- Purchase the Watchpoint Pack: This bundle includes access to all 32 base game characters, as well as two new heroes (Kiriko and Junker Queen) and other bonuses.
People Also Ask About How to Unlock Overwatch 2 Characters
Can I unlock all characters for free?
Yes, you can unlock all of the base game characters for free by playing the game and leveling up. However, new heroes released after the launch of the game will need to be purchased separately or unlocked through the battle pass.
How long does it take to unlock all characters?
The time it takes to unlock all characters depends on how quickly you level up. It can take several hours or even days of gameplay to unlock all 32 base game characters.
Is there a faster way to unlock characters?
The fastest way to unlock characters is to purchase the Watchpoint Pack, which includes access to all 32 base game characters. You can also purchase individual heroes for 1,000 Overwatch Coins each.
