Overwatch 2 is looking to make some big changes to its predecessor’s formula, ranging from smaller matches to hero reworks. Quality of life improvements will also be made in Overwatch 2, one of which will be a proper ping system for the game.
Anyone that has played Overwatch for an extended amount of time will know the struggles of playing with someone not using a mic. While nobody should be forced to talk if they do not want to, it is extremely hard for gamers not using a headset to communicate properly. Callouts cannot be made, meaning that gamers cannot warn their teammates about incoming Ultimate abilities or list off weakened enemies. However, the sequel’s ping system could help with this issue.
RELATED: Overwatch 2 Reveals More Details About Bastion Rework
New Overwatch 2 Director Aaron Keller confirmed that there is already a “prototype” of the ping system being tested, meaning that it will likely make it to release. While he does not want to “promise” anything until it can be officially announced, he does say that Blizzard is “excited” about the feature. He also adds that the studio is currently “working through issues” tied to the ping system, confirming that it is far along. As such, while there is a small chance something could go wrong, it seems probable that the feature will reach the live game.
No specifics are provided about the ping system in the Overwatch 2 AMA, leaving fans to speculate just how complex it will be. Based on ping systems in other games, players can expect different colored markers for the objective, friendly players, and enemies. How complex these markers get remains to be seen, though, as they could show hero pictures or be more simplistic in their design. How much detail is revealed on pinged enemies and teammates is also unclear, as they could show their current health or only hero names. Regardless, they should help players direct their teammates, something that could prove to be a huge advantage for Tank players.
With Overwatch 2 switching to 5v5 play, and each team only having one tank, it will be more important than ever for tanks to direct their teammates. With an entire team following their lead and needing to keep them alive, being able to point in the right direction could be a massive help.
Tank players can properly direct their teammates, making the plans for a push clearer using the ping system. At the same time, those following the Tank can ping potential threats or weak enemies, allowing someone like Reinhardt to swing their hammer or launch a Fire Strike before pulling their shield back down.
With other quality of life improvements like Zenyatta’s new HUD design revealed, the sequel is shaping up to be a noticeable improvement over the original. While it still seems far from release, at least fans know a bit more about Overwatch 2 now.
Overwatch 2 is in development for PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One.
MORE: How the Competitive/PvP Meta Will Change in Overwatch 2
Source: Reddit