Overwatch 2 Extends It's 6v6 Playtest, but Players Are Demanding More

The first round of 6v6 tests in Overwatch 2 has been running for a while, giving players and developers a feel for the mode's current state. Its popularity has led to an extension before moving on to the next test phase, but players are asking for more. Let’s explore the ongoing discussion about the 6v6 test and its extension in Overwatch 2.

Overwatch 2 Extends the First 6v6 Playtest, but Players Want More From Blizzard

In a recent post on X, Overwatch 2 game director Aaron Keller announced, "We're extending the 6v6 playtest due to continued player interest and excitement for the mode." He also mentioned that the mode would be moved to the Arcade and available until mid-season, after which it would be replaced by the next 6v6 test, the Open Queue format (Min 1, Max 3).

We're extending the 6v6 playtest due to continued player interest and excitement for the mode🥳

Starting tomorrow the 6v6 card will move to the Arcade. It will be available until midseason, then transition to a 6v6 Open Queue format - Min 1, Max 3.

— Aaron Keller (@aaronkellerOW) January 6, 2025

This news is welcomed by many players who’ve been enjoying the 6v6 format since its debut in OW2 (technically back in OW1). The recent tests have also made the tank role feel much better. However, reading through the comments on this announcement, it seems players are hoping for more from Blizzard when it comes to 6v6.

The most common request from players is to have the mode added to Competitive matches, as it's currently limited to Quick Play and will soon be relegated to Arcade mode. User @Greenpig117 asked, "Hey Aaron! Any news on this game mode coming to comp anytime soon?" while another commenter pleaded, "Add 6v6 to comp plzzzzz. No more QP!"

Played a LOT from 2016-2021. Barely touched OW2. This mode is literally the only reason I even consider playing this game now. It is a night and day difference from 5v5, and actually feels like Overwatch. Standardize this and players will return.

— Stocks Pilgrim (@StocksPilgrim) January 6, 2025

Some players are so pleased with the return of 6v6 that they’re asking Blizzard to make it permanent, as it’s performing better (though only Blizzard knows the actual data). One user said, "Honestly just change everything over to 6v6 at this point. No need to wait. I was initially against going back to 6v6, but now it’s actually (semi) tolerable to play Tank again. So I’m all for it now."

It seems that while the 6v6 tests are going well for Overwatch 2, players are hoping Blizzard will take it further and make the format a more permanent part of the game. This desire could also be influenced by the success of Marvel Rivals, which features a 6v6 open queue format. It makes sense that Overwatch 2 players want something similar, but for now, we'll have to wait to see what Blizzard decides and how the future of these 6v6 tests will go.