Overwatch 2 Returns to China

Summary

• Overwatch 2 returns to China on February 19th after a two-year absence, with a technical test starting January 8th.
• Chinese players have missed 12 seasons of content.
• The first live Overwatch Championship Series event in 2025 will be held in Hangzhou, celebrating the game's return to China.

Overwatch 2 is making its highly anticipated return to China on February 19th, following a technical test from January 8th to 15th. After a two-year absence, Chinese players will finally experience the 12 seasons of new heroes, game modes, and features they missed.

The game's unavailability stemmed from the termination of Blizzard's contract with NetEase in January 2023. However, a renewed partnership in April 2024 paved the way for Blizzard games to return to the vast Chinese market.

This February 19th launch coincides with the start of Overwatch 2 Season 15. The upcoming technical test allows Chinese players to explore all 42 heroes, including the new tank Hazard (from Season 14), and enjoy the classic 6v6 game mode.

Overwatch 2 Returns to China on February 19th

Further exciting news for Chinese Overwatch fans: the Overwatch Championship Series returns in 2025, featuring a dedicated China region. The inaugural live event will be held in Hangzhou, marking a triumphant return for both the game and its competitive scene.

To illustrate the scope of missed content, Chinese players last played during Overwatch 2 Season 2. This means they'll discover six new heroes (Lifeweaver, Illari, Mauga, Venture, Juno, and Hazard), new game modes (Flashpoint and Clash), new maps (Antarctic Peninsula, Samoa, and Runasapi), the Invasion story missions, and numerous hero reworks and balance changes. It's a substantial amount of content to catch up on!

Unfortunately, the 2025 Lunar New Year event may conclude shortly before the game's return, potentially causing Chinese players to miss out on new skins and the return of Prop Hunt. Hopefully, Blizzard will consider a delayed event to ensure Chinese players can fully participate in the celebrations.