Highlights
Overwatch 2's latest game mode, Flashpoint, has been well-received by players for its hybrid gameplay but some struggle with contesting the objective in overtime.
The shift to 5v5 in Overwatch 2 has significantly changed the meta, causing players to become more easily distracted from maintaining control of the objective. This is a result of increased counter-swapping and a faster gameplay environment. Consequently, the term "C9" has gained popularity within the Overwatch community as a reference to instances where players, including professionals, fail to engage or hold the objective.
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Ever since its release in October 2022, Overwatch 2 has experienced both triumphs and challenges. Now in its sixth season, the FPS game has introduced several noteworthy features, such as highly anticipated PvE missions, a fresh Support hero, and an additional core game mode.
The newest mode, Flashpoint, has garnered positive feedback from players, mainly due to its unique gameplay mechanics involving three unlockable capture points. While initially difficult for some players to familiarize themselves with the maps, Flashpoint combines elements of Control and 2CP, making it feel familiar yet refreshing. However, despite its exciting addition to the game, some Overwatch 2 players still struggle with a crucial aspect: contesting the objective during overtime.
Overwatch 2's Fast Pace Often Sees Players Abandoning the Objective in Critical Moments
Flashpoint is not the only game mode where claiming an objective and staying there while the enemy team is present is required. This is necessary in all five core game modes, whether it involves pushing a robot, a payload, or capturing points. Overwatch 2, the sequel to the hero-shooter game, received criticism for being too similar to the first game. However, the switch from 6v6 to 5v5 in Overwatch 2 has changed the meta significantly. The absence of a second Tank has led to more counter-swapping, increased damage from Support heroes, and a faster-paced gameplay. Considering these factors, it is understandable why players might become distracted and fail to stay on the objective when necessary.
Regrettably, even though the Overwatch franchise has been around for seven years, it is still common to see players abandoning the objective in order to chase after an enemy player, a health pack, or to assist an ally off the point. In overtime situations, this decision can directly lead to defeat. Regardless of the rank, whether it be Top 500 or professional play, there are still players who either fail to realize or choose not to pay attention to the fact that someone needs to be on the point when it is being contested.
The term "C9" has gained immense popularity within the Overwatch community, although it is frequently used incorrectly. It originates from the name of a former professional Overwatch team called Cloud9. This team gained notoriety in 2017 for failing to touch the objective three times during a game, and this repeated in future matches as well. If players have the opportunity to reach the objective but fail to do so, it can be referred to as a "C9". However, if they actively die on the point or are in the process of trying to reach it, it does not qualify.
In a recent high-level occurrence of a "C9", fans were shocked while watching the qualifying matches for the 2023 Overwatch World Cup. Team Philippines was up against Team South Korea in an intense battle to defend close spawn on Circuit Royale. Unfortunately, the Philippines failed to comprehend that South Korea only needed to push the payload in order to secure a victory. This oversight occurred because the Philippines had not moved the cart at all during the previous round. Opting to position themselves on high ground, hoping to trap their opponents in spawn, the Philippines left the objective completely unattended. As a result, South Korea's tank simply walked forward and claimed the victory.
In professional matches and across all ranks in Overwatch 2, it is vital for players to consistently stay on the objective, even when in overtime. This may involve delaying the enemy's progress until death, as it presents an opportunity for the team to reach the objective once again.
Overwatch 2 is currently accessible on multiple platforms including PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.