Overwatch 2’s new Stadium mode offers a fresh twist by removing the ability to swap heroes mid-match, a feature that has been central, and often divisive, in the main game. This change aims to encourage players to commit to their hero builds and strategies for the entire match.
Swapping heroes to counter opponents, often called “Counterwatch,” is a core part of traditional Overwatch 2 gameplay. However, in Stadium, senior game designer Dylan Snyder explains that “No hero swapping has been one of the core foundational pillars of the mode since day one, like since we started prototyping it.” The reasoning is partly practical: switching heroes mid-game could disrupt the flow and give an unfair advantage to teams that stick with their choices.
Unlike the usual format where players can switch heroes and pick perks as the match progresses, Stadium introduces a system where players select powers and purchase items over seven rounds. Coins earned by healing, kills, or assists buy these items, which can be refunded anytime. Powers are more permanent, limited to one per odd round and non-refundable.
This approach means players shape their hero’s identity gradually, crafting a distinct build that fits their style and the match’s demands. Snyder adds, “We want folks to be able to somewhat predict what they’re getting into from their opponent.” That predictability adds a strategic layer, but it also comes with trade-offs.
One challenge is that hero counters remain in play, but since swapping isn’t allowed, players must work around these matchups. For example, Genji struggles against beam heroes like Moira or Zarya because his deflect only works on projectiles. To address this, Stadium includes purchasable items that upgrade Genji’s deflect to handle beams, softening the impact of counters but not eliminating the problem.
Snyder also shared that earlier versions of Stadium allowed players to change powers and items each round, but this proved too confusing. The current system continues to evolve, becoming simpler and easier to follow, which is essential given Stadium’s already chaotic nature.
For those frustrated by the constant hero swapping in Overwatch 2’s primary mode, Stadium offers a different kind of experience, one that demands commitment and planning. It’s an interesting choice that might appeal to players who prefer to focus on build strategy over rapid adaptation.
