Overwatch 2 Season 12 Start Date, New Hero, Content And More

Despite the turbulent waters following the release of the Season 11 mid-season patch for Overwatch 2, Blizzard appears to be moving full steam ahead for the upcoming Season 12. This new season is poised to introduce numerous changes, updates, and the highly anticipated new hero, Juno, along with much more.

In this article, we'll explore everything we know so far about Season 12 of Overwatch 2, including its start date, content additions, possible changes, and, of course, the new Support hero debuting in the game. So without further delay, let's dive right in.

Updated 19th July 2024: Details added for Season 12 release date, new Support Hero Juno, Reaper rework and Avoid Slots.

Overwatch 2 Season 12 Start Date and Time

Initially, we didn't have a confirmed start date for Season 12 and assumed it would begin on August 27th. However, the official reveal trailer for Juno has now informed us that Season 12 of Overwatch 2 will start on August 20, 2024. This release date aligns with the Battle Pass timer, indicating that the season's launch is on schedule.

Of course, there could be delays, and if that happens, Season 12 will likely start a few days later. Although such delays are not common, the recent backlash from Season 11's mid-season update, dubbed the worst patch ever, could cause a postponement. Be sure to check back here as we approach the end of Season 11 for more updates.

Overwatch 2 Possible New Support Hero: Juno

The highlight of Season 12 will be the introduction of a new Support role hero to the roster. Initially suspected to be named "Space Ranger," we now know her name is Juno. First teased at BlizzCon in 2023, we've seen concept art and heard rumors about her abilities and backstory. Now, it's confirmed that she will be arriving in Season 12.

In the recent reveal trailer on the official Overwatch 2 YouTube channel, Juno's abilities have been partially revealed. While specific numbers haven't been disclosed yet, we know her weapon is the Mediblaster, which heals allies and damages enemies. She also has the speed-boosting Hyper Ring, as highlighted in a recent interview with Alex Dawson. Dawson mentioned that it "brings some utility that only one character has at the moment," referring to Lucio, making Juno the second Speed Booster in the game.

For more details on Juno's arrival and abilities, you can check out our Juno reveal article. Additionally, players can jump into Overwatch 2 this weekend (July 19th - July 21st) to try Juno out in a limited hero trial, similar to the one for Venture when he was first released.

Overwatch 2 Season 12 New Content and Updates: Reaper Rework

For Season 12, we expect the usual Battle Pass update, including new mythic skins and cosmetics for players to grind for. Additionally, the official rework for Reaper, which has been in the pipeline for some time, is on the way. Overwatch 2’s Lead Hero Designer Alec Dawson mentioned that they are focusing on updating Reaper's Shadow Step, though he didn't reveal the specifics of the change. He did note that it would be a "large technical challenge" to implement.

There could also be a new game mode to try out, but this is where things get a bit speculative and more in the realm of wishful thinking. We know that the new Clash Mode was meant to be released sometime soon, along with its accompanying new map Hanaoka. But as Blizzard tends to focus on one major new feature per season, Juno will likely be the main focus for Season 12.

Overwatch 2 Season 12 Avoid Slot Update

Promised since Season 10 and finally arriving in Season 12, Blizzard is enhancing the report system and the avoid slots feature. In Season 12, the number of avoid slots will increase to 10 players. You will also be able to pin up to three players as permanent avoid, with the rest ranked by how often you want to avoid them.

This means you can permanently avoid particularly toxic players you've encountered multiple times by pinning them on your list. With this update, you can prioritize your list, ranking avoided players based on how likely they’ll be avoided. The top players on your list will be those you never queue with.

However, Senior Systems Designer Gavin Winter mentioned that for most players below Grandmaster, you’ll rarely encounter anyone on your avoid list. For Grandmaster players, due to the smaller player pool, the system will gradually ignore your list from the bottom to find the best matches.

We will be keeping an eye out for any news on what other new content is coming in Season 12 and keep you updated with the latest details. For now, this is the most updated news we have on Season 12, and we will be sure to update you consistently with more up-to-date information as we get closer to the release of Overwatch 2 Season 12.