Overwatch 2 Mid-Season 9 Hotfix Rolls Back Mauga, Sombra, and Symmetra Buffs

Responding to fan feedback, Blizzard has addressed concerns with a new mid-Season 9 hotfix for Overwatch 2. This update has "corrected" some of the less favorable hero balances introduced at the beginning of the season. Specifically, Mauga, Symmetra, and Sombra have all received nerfs aimed at bringing balance to the game. However, the question remains: is this enough?

In the following discussion, we'll explore the details surrounding the mid-Season 9 hotfix that has nerfed these three heroes, along with the community's reaction and whether it's adequate to maintain Overwatch 2's positive reception as Season 10 approaches.

Overwatch 2 Mid-Season 9 Hotfix Rolls Back Mauga, Sombra, and Symmetra Buffs

As previously mentioned, many fans expressed dissatisfaction with the recent hero buffs in Overwatch 2, particularly those affecting Mauga, as well as Symmetra and Sombra, two DPS heroes. In response, Overwatch 2 has rolled back some of these adjustments – notably Mauga's, who has been known to dominate the game. Hopefully, these changes will restore balance.

Mauga’s Cardiac Overdrive adjustments from the Overwatch 2 mid-Season 9 patch have been completely reversed, along with a slight reduction in his health. However, the damage bonus to his Stomp ability at the end of his Overrun remains unchanged. Sombra's EMP Ultimate has lost its cost reduction from the previous patch, although the buffs to her Virus and Translocator persist.

Symmetra, meanwhile, has had her Photon Projector buff revoked, and her Sentry Turret's health has been reduced from 50 to 40. Although this is still 10 more than its pre-patch value, it allows for one-shot melee eliminations, which is helpful. The damage and health of her Teleporter, however, remains unaffected.

Fans appear to be content with these adjustments, as they have somewhat alleviated concerns about the game's meta, particularly regarding Mauga and the tank meta. As one Reddit user expressed, "Mauga meta had to go; the game was unplayable and unwatchable. I'm extremely impressed the balance team acted so quickly (low expectations but still)".

However, it's still early days for the patch, and as more players engage with Mauga, Symmetra, and Sombra, the response may evolve. Additionally, as Overwatch 2 is a live service game, Blizzard will likely continue to adjust and balance all heroes as Season 10 approaches.

This is especially probable given the significant updates Season 10 promises, including a Mythic Rework, all heroes being unlocked, and no longer being gated behind the battle pass. For now, we'll have to wait for further updates on the patches and hero balancing changes as Overwatch 2 progresses towards Season 10 and beyond.