# Overwatch 2 Receives Major Updates in Seasons 15 and 16: 6v6 Makes a Comeback, Perks System, Stadium Mode, and Loot Boxes
Overwatch 2 has faced challenges in keeping its appeal in recent times, with numerous players expressing disappointment over the departure from the beloved Overwatch 1 experience. The transition to 5v5, uncertain balancing, and a pricey in-game store left many fans feeling let down. Nevertheless, Blizzard is taking a significant step to regain its community’s favor with a substantial update covering Seasons 15 and 16.
This update reintroduces the cherished **6v6 mode**, launches a **new Perks system** for hero enhancements, presents the ambitious **Stadium mode**, and even brings back **loot boxes**. Here’s everything you should know about these transformative updates.
—
## **Hero Enhancements with the New Perks System**
Beginning in **Season 15 (February 18, 2025)**, Blizzard is rolling out the **Perks system**, enabling players to upgrade their heroes during gameplay. This system enhances the playing experience by providing two varieties of upgrades:
– **Minor Perks** – These offer passive enhancements or shorter cooldowns. For instance, **Torbjörn’s Blacksmith’s Hammer** can now restore armor to teammates, or his **ÜberCharge** can replenish his Rivet Gun’s ammunition.
– **Major Perks** – These dramatically change abilities. For example, **Torbjörn’s turret** can now be affixed to walls and ceilings, or players may unlock a **Level 3 turret** for boosted firepower.
The **Perks system will be accessible in both Quickplay and Ranked modes**, ensuring that all players can engage with these new features.
—
## **New Game Mode: Stadium**
Blizzard is adding **Stadium mode** in **Season 16 (April 2025)**, representing one of the most ambitious enhancements to Overwatch 2. This mode alters the classic gameplay structure with innovative mechanics:
– **Turn-Based Rounds** – Teams must win **four rounds** on compact maps, focusing on fulfilling objectives instead of merely defeating rivals.
– **Shop System** – Players accumulate **coins** throughout rounds, which can be spent on **hero upgrades** to amplify their skills.
– **Third-Person Perspective** – Initially, **Stadium mode is played in third-person**, but players can revert to first-person if they choose.
In addition to Stadium mode, **the classic 6v6 gameplay** will also return as a **distinct ranked mode**, launching on **February 18, 2025**.
—
## **New Heroes: Freja and Aqua**
Blizzard is further augmenting the hero roster with two new characters:
– **Freja (Season 16)** – A **DPS hero** equipped with an **explosive crossbow** and featuring **high agility**.
– **Aqua (Season 18)** – A **mystery hero** possessing **water-based powers**. More information will be unveiled as the release date approaches.
Players will have an opportunity to **test Freja for free** during a special trial weekend in **Season 15**.
—
## **Loot Boxes Make a Contentious Return**
One of the most unexpected changes is the **comeback of loot boxes**, a feature Blizzard eliminated in 2022 when Overwatch 2 shifted to a battle pass framework. Following complaints about the **steep costs of in-game cosmetics**, several players actively **requested the revival of loot boxes**.
Blizzard is reintroducing them with significant modifications:
– **Two types of loot boxes** – **Standard** and **Legendary** (which guarantees a legendary item).
– **No duplicate items** – If a duplicate is received, you will obtain a different item of equal value instead.
– **Clear drop rates** – Blizzard has disclosed the probabilities of receiving various item rarities:
| Loot Box Type | Legendary Drop Rate | Epic Drop Rate | Rare Drop Rate | Common Drop Rate |
|————–|——————|————–|————-|————–|
| Standard Loot Box | 5.10% | 21.93% | 96.26% | 97.97% |
| Legendary Loot Box | 100% | 21.93% | 96.26% | 97.97% |
Loot boxes will be **acquirable through the Battle Pass (both free and premium tiers)** and **weekly rewards**. Blizzard has also indicated additional avenues for obtaining them, including **Twitch Drops**.
—
## **Final Thoughts: A New Chapter for Overwatch 2?**
Blizzard’s latest update is a definitive effort to **revitalize Overwatch 2** and