The Game Director of Overwatch talks about the planned progression system and the ranked game mode.
Finally, Progress is Visible
In an interview with Eurogamer, Jeff Kaplan, the Game Director of Overwatch, answered many questions regarding the game’s beta. The focus was on statements about the time after the “break” – because the game’s beta is offline until the end of January 2016. Kaplan clearly pointed out what the team is currently working on and what players can look forward to – but also what they will likely miss.
Progression System – Pure Cosmetics
If the beta starts again next time (i.e., at the end of January), they intend to have a progression system implemented in the game. The developers were particularly concerned that the system does not restrict players in any way – they should not feel forced into a particular playstyle just to fill a bar faster. For this reason, everything in the progression system will be purely cosmetic, there will definitely be no increase in damage or healing.
Since fans responded well to the various skins of the origin version, there will be consideration for “further customization options” that will accompany the system. Most likely, these are the spray logos that were extracted from the game data earlier – whether there will be more is still uncertain.
Ranked Games – Important, but Not Mandatory for the Launch
Because many players demanded a ranked mode, they are working hard on it. However, it may well be that this mode will not be finished by launch and will be added later. According to current plans, they want to focus on full 6-person teams, as many other games have already shown that “randoms” do not get along well, and they want to avoid toxic chats at all costs, as this would negatively affect the enjoyment of the game for all involved.
In conclusion, there is good news for everyone who has not yet entered the beta: There will be at least one more wave of invitations – a precise timing for this is not yet available.
