When is Overwatch Shutting Down?
Unfortunately, for those that want to keep playing Overwatch 1 when the sequel launches, it’ll be impossible. Blizzard is set to shut down Overwatch 1’s servers about two days before the launch of Overwatch 2, specifically on October 2, 2022. (This might be October 3 in some territories outside the US). The developers are planning for there to be at least 27 hours of downtime.
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On October 4, the Overwatch game icon on players’ consoles will prompt them to download and install Overwatch 2, as it’s basically replacing the first game entirely. Thanks to all the character reworks and the change from 6v6 to 5v5, Overwatch 2 is a completely different beast.
Before Overwatch 2 usurps its predecessor in two weeks, Overwatch fans can check out the Last Chance event currently going on. Until October 2, all the seasonal cosmetic items that have ever been in Overwatch will be available to purchase with Credits. Overwatch 1 players will earn credits when they open loot boxes and get a duplicate cosmetic item. Fans will be happy to know that any purchased cosmetics and skins will indeed be carried over into Overwatch 2, so there won’t be any cute lost outfits as long as players sync up their Battle.net accounts. Any progression will also be carried over into the sequel.
Overwatch 2 launches in Early Access on October 4 for PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
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