Overwatch 2 update received positively after losing players to Marvel Rivals

More than most games, Overwatch 2 has suffered from the Marvel Rivals phenomenon. With many requested features still missing, some players decided to check out the NetEase Games alternative. However, the Season 15 Overwatch 2 update has at least temporarily led to improved Steam reviews and higher player counts.

The latest Overwatch 2 patch, launched on February 18th, made significant additions. One major difference from the first Overwatch was the lack of loot boxes. While the developers viewed this positively, players had few ways to earn cosmetics without spending currency. Loot boxes are now back in Overwatch 2, and dedicated players can accumulate up to three boxes per week, with wins speeding up the process.

Inevitably, shooters start to feel stale without shaking up gameplay elements. Faced with the Marvel Rivals threat, Blizzard also introduced perks in the February 18th Overwatch 2 update. As matches progress, competitors unlock minor and major hero perks that can alter strategies during rounds.

Players shouldn't overreact to a small sample size. Even so, Overwatch 2 has received more positive Steam reviews since the Season 15 patch. The game has a lackluster near 23% rating, but that's actually up from the 17% mark experienced in Spring 2024. Most games see a spike in activity after a significant update. Still, Overwatch 2 SteamDB player counts have also improved for the first time since the Marvel Rivals December release.

Marvel Rivals has been dealing with its own controversy after NetEase fired some American developers. The game remains dominant with much higher Steam user counts but has seen a gradual downswing since its January peak. While these trends may not last, Overwatch is an established franchise ready to welcome returning players.