Overwatch 2’s 6v6 Return Sparks Controversy: Is It Worth the Risk?

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In Overwatch 2, they reintroduced the much-desired 6vs6 gameplay format in a fresh mode, yet there’s division within the gaming community due to an age-old issue.

6-versus-6 (6v6) is generating a lot of buzz within the Overwatch 2 community, as both content producers and casual players argue that it’s a more effective setup compared to the current 5-versus-5 (5v5). Blizzard Entertainment has dabbled with various 6v6 configurations in temporary game modes, and the debate over which format is superior continues to rage among fans.

For the initial return, Blizzard has reintroduced team-based competition in a 6 versus 6 format, instead of the traditional 5 versus 5 competitive mode played earlier. The notable change this time is the inclusion of an open queue system, but with the limitation that no more than two tanks can be fielded by a team at any given time.

As a devoted gamer, I’ve noticed that while many in our gaming community applaud the new move, it’s the content creators and top-tier players who seem most enthusiastic. However, the general consensus among us remains divided. The introduction of open queue in Overwatch 2 has rekindled our biggest concern since the game’s inception.

Pros and cons to 6v6 open queue in Overwatch 2

In most multiplayer hero games, an open queue system stirs up debate due to several factors, however, within the competitive scene, many gamers find themselves unprepared to adapt to different character roles on the fly.

One gamer stated that no one is capable of performing every function. They excel at being a ‘Masters’ rank tank, but are only ‘Plat’ in DPS roles. If they aren’t assigned the tank role, they essentially become a hindrance instead.

The open queue format offers a more significant edge to teams over the traditional 5v5 setup, leading to a challenging solo queue experience.

The open queue structure provides a greater advantage for team players than the standard 5v5, making solo queuing a tougher endeavor.

One user responded, “Being in a group provides them with a greater advantage because their roles are already defined.” Another example: “I’ve joined teams where everyone is playing solo, while I was already grouped up. I understand it helps reduce waiting times, but I’d often prefer to wait.

A major problem with the 6v6 role queue setup was that it frequently led to lengthy wait times before a match started. In fact, one of the key reasons for switching to the present 5v5 format in Overwatch 2 was to reduce these long queue times, as there were not enough tank players available to fill teams quickly.

Despite the introduction of an open queue system that has significantly improved wait times, we’re still experiencing a substantial shortage of tanks.

One user commented, “No one seems keen on playing the tank role.” This appears to be a problem not specific to Overwatch, but rather a common issue across hero shooter games. The ratio of damage per second (DPS) characters and support characters significantly outnumbers tank characters.

Despite some players preferring 5v5, a significant number of gamers still believe that 6v6 is the superior game format. Content creators have been vocal about their enthusiasm for the new competitive mode and are advocating for its permanent reintroduction. At this point, the current 6v6 mode is only temporary, and whether it becomes permanent will depend on how well-received and engaging the mode proves to be.

Essentially, to ensure that 6v6 stays for good, keep on playing and share your thoughts. The competitive open queue of 6v6 is planned to last till April 21st.

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2025-03-20 19:20