The PvP beta of Overwatch 2 is beginning. You can definitely participate, all you need to do is watch some Twitch. Blizzard is adopting the model that Riot’s shooter Valorant made a huge hit before its release.
For many years, there was silence around Overwatch 2. Fans were angry that Blizzard left the original Overwatch practically untouched while working on the sequel in the background. Now the waiting time is finally over, as the PvP beta of Overwatch 2 is set to begin, at least on PC.
However, not everyone interested will get an immediate opportunity to participate in the beta – at least that was the thought. Because Blizzard is bringing a way to guarantee entry into the Overwatch 2 beta if you watch the game long enough on Twitch.
How do you guarantee entry into the beta? Through Twitch drops, it will be possible to earn access to the beta. You need to watch streamers playing Overwatch 2 for a total of 4 hours between April 27th at 7:00 PM and April 28th at 3:00 AM. The action therefore has a very limited time window to secure a beta key.
Please note that you must link your Twitch account with your Battle.net account and have Twitch drops enabled.
Some of the streamers you can watch for access include:
A complete list of all available streamers can be found on the official website of Overwatch 2.
Once you have accumulated the 4 hours, you will receive guaranteed access to the PvP beta of Overwatch 2 through the drops.
This model may seem familiar to some shooter fans, as Valorant – which many see as a competitor to Overwatch – distributed its beta access through Twitch drops back then.
Why is Blizzard doing this? The benefits of this approach are obvious. Anyone who wants beta access to Overwatch 2 must consume Overwatch 2 content on Twitch. This, in turn, keeps Overwatch 2 climbing the Twitch rankings and attracts more players to the shooter, who may also become interested in the beta.
This generates relatively much attention for a comparatively low effort. At the same time, it is, of course, a nice thing to be able to secure guaranteed beta access.
On which platforms is the beta? For now, only on PC. Although there are plans for beta tests on consoles later, that is not currently planned. So those who want to try Overwatch 2 soon should get familiar with the PC version.
What is new in Overwatch 2? With Overwatch 2, Blizzard is implementing some significant changes regarding gameplay and format. The team sizes are shrinking from 6 players to 5 players, which made many professional tanks upset upon announcement. The role of each player in the team is becoming even more important than before.
Many heroes are also receiving fundamental revamps, switching roles or getting adjusted abilities.
Will you be watching the streams to get into the Overwatch 2 beta? Or will you wait for the finished game instead?
In general, Blizzard already has more plans for Twitch and is also distributing bonuses in other games.
