New sound effects should lead to better reactions in Overwatch . But does it help?
Currently, the latest patch of Overwatch is on the PTR, where both Sombra and the new 3vs3 and 1vs1 modes can be tested. However, this is not all that is to be discovered.
As the user HexZyle pointed out on Reddit, there are a number of undocumented changes on the Overwatch PTR. Notably, some characters have received new sound effects for their weapon when their ammunition is running low. These changes are minor and are likely hard to hear in the heat of battle – so a bit of practice and adjustment time will be needed.
So far, these sound effects have been implemented for Sombra, Symmetra, Mei, Zarya, and Winston.
What is the purpose of this change? Primarily, it serves as an acoustic warning that ammunition is running low. For Symmetra, Mei, and Zarya, this is particularly useful, as they can still use their alternate fire mode, which consumes a large part of the ammunition yet is still fired at full strength. Example: Mei’s Ice Crystal consumes 25 ammunition. But even when only 5 ammunition is left, the crystal will be fired with full force.
Players of Winston can also benefit, as the sound allows them to better gauge whether they can quickly deliver a “Quick Melee” strike on the opponent before the reload begins.
