Overwatch 2's Summer Games event is set to return on July 11, 2023, featuring new beach-themed skins for the game's most beloved heroes. Alongside these fresh cosmetics, the event will also bring back cherished past items and a popular game mode from the original Overwatch. Fans are eagerly accumulating Overwatch Coins in anticipation of the upcoming content.
In the previous season of Overwatch, the Summer Games took a backseat as the game introduced the Anniversary Remix Volume 3. This special release showcased limited-edition remixed skins such as Genjiman Genji and Varsity D.Va. To compensate for the absence of the Summer Games, Blizzard brought back the beloved Lucioball mode during this event and even introduced a faster and more chaotic version called Lucioball Remix. However, players still longed for the authentic Summer Games experience, and thankfully, Blizzard is granting their wish in Season 5 of Overwatch 2.
What’s in Store for Overwatch 2’s Summer Games 2023 Game Modes
Blizzard Entertainment recently unveiled details about the upcoming content and events for Overwatch 2 season 5, including the highly anticipated return of The Summer Games. Additionally, they provided a sneak peek of a brand new mode called Winston's Beach Volleyball, as well as exciting new cosmetics for popular heroes such as Doomfist and Mercy. Furthermore, they teased the highly coveted return of Lucioball and previous event skins.
For those unfamiliar with Lucioball, it is a thrilling 3v3 mode in Overwatch 2 where teams consist solely of Lucio players. The objective is to strategically use Lucio's secondary fire and unique abilities to maneuver a massive soccer ball into the opponent's goal. The first team to successfully score three goals emerges victorious. With three maps featuring various obstacles and jump pads, each match guarantees an exhilarating experience for players.
Banking on the immense popularity of Lucioball, the Overwatch team has introduced a new game mode called Winston's Beach Volleyball. In this mode, players will have the opportunity to use different heroes to serve, set, and spike a giant volleyball into the opponents' zone. While the scientist Winston is confirmed to be part of this game mode, Blizzard has not yet disclosed the other selected heroes or if there are any restrictions on hero selection.
What to Expect from Overwatch 2’s New Summer Games 2023 Skins
In addition to the event details, Blizzard announced the release of new Summer-themed skins for the game. Among these skins is the highly anticipated Lifeguard Mercy, a legendary skin that was teased in a YouTube video by popular Overwatch content creator Niandra. This skin pays homage to the iconic slow-motion running scenes from the beloved late 90s show Baywatch. To complement the Lifeguard Mercy Skin, Blizzard also revealed a new highlight intro called "Rescue Run." Furthermore, they introduced a unique lifebuoy spray that is exclusive to this hero. The Lifeguard Mercy skin is expected to be priced at around 2,000 credits, aligning with other legendary skins in Overwatch.
The free Tropical Doomfist skin has been showcased in sneak peeks during the season 5 trailer on Overwatch’s official YouTube channel. This cosmetic features the Talon leader sporting a vibrant vacation look, complete with loose red shorts adorned with tropical leaf patterns and tassels, stylish shades, a tan fedora, and dark slip-on shoes. With this skin, Doomfist receives a completely new outfit, potentially placing it in the Epic or Legendary tier. The best part is that it can be earned for free, encouraging players to invest extra time in the game to complete challenges and obtain it.
In addition, the Overwatch 2 Summer Games will reintroduce popular skins from previous iterations, including the fan-favorites Track and Field Tracer, Fastball Zenyatta, Wave Hanzo, Poolside Ashe, and Sprinkles Mei. Based on the duration of past events, this year's Summer Games is expected to last approximately 20 days to a month. This event promises a plethora of content, such as a new game mode, fresh cosmetics, and the opportunity to unlock past Summer skins. It serves as a fitting comeback for one of the game’s most adored events.
Overwatch 2 is now available for Nintendo Switch, PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.