Hero Bans Finally Arrive In Competitive Overwatch 2 Along With Season 16's New Stadium Mode

Today's Overwatch 2 news has kind of been a long time coming. With the launch of Season 16 today, the F2P hero shooter finally introduces hero bans in competitive play. Now, before a match even starts, the mind games can begin. Teams will be able to ban a total of 4 heroes (2 selected by each team) via a vote. You will be slightly limited here in that no more than 2 heroes per given role can be banned overall.

Now if there's a hero that counters your team too effectively or one that is just a pain to deal with, you and your team can coordinate to get them off the list before the fight even starts. There's a full blog detailing the entire system if you need more info.

Speaking of competitive play, if you're a bit bored with that or quick play, the new Stadium mode has arrived. In this new mode, teams square off in a best-of-seven rounds match where earning cash allows you to change up how your hero plays in the armory. Right now, only 17 heroes are available in Stadium, but more will be coming later along with new maps, items, and abilities. Keep in mind that Stadium features a new standalone ranking system and an introductory event is offering limited-time skins like the Stadium Rookie Soldier: 76 skin. Others are up for grabs, too.

You can play Stadium in both 1st and 3rd person should you want to experiment with the camera a bit.

Lastly, Season 16 comes with a new hero. After making a few changes post-testing, Freja brings a crossbow to the field and wants to climb the DPS meters. Use her Bola Shot Ultimate to lash foes together for some great combinations.

The full patch post finishes with details regarding the new season's battle pass and a bundle with Dokiwatch.