Blizzard has taken a significant step in response to the community by deciding to keep Jade Weapons available in Overwatch 2’s upcoming Season 15. Originally set to retire these sought-after 2024 Competitive Play weapon cosmetics, the developer changed course following feedback from players.
Introduced last year, Jade Weapons became a notable addition in Overwatch 2 as the first new Weapon Variant since the game’s inception. They were seen as a progression from the popular Golden Weapons of the original Overwatch and could be unlocked using 3,000 Competitive Points earned through gameplay. However, as detailed in a recent installment of Overwatch 2 Director’s Take, the plan was to make Jade Weapons inaccessible once Season 15 began on February 18.
Blizzard’s initial decision didn’t sit well with the community, prompting an outpour of disapproval that was loud enough to reach the ears of Aaron Keller, the Overwatch 2 game director. In a tweet not long after the blog post, Keller assured fans that Jade Weapons would remain in the game. While Blizzard was originally keen to reserve these cosmetics as a one-time reward, the community’s clear preference for keeping them around persuaded the company to rethink.
As Season 15 kicks off, there’s a good chance players will be able to buy Jade Weapons with both Legacy and Competitive Points. Despite admitting that this decision came late in the development process, Keller is optimistic about these cosmetics making their return, if not right at the start of Season 15, then certainly by the mid-season patch expected later in March.
Questions remain about whether future heroes in Overwatch 2 will feature Jade Weapons. When probed on the matter, Keller confessed it hadn’t been on his radar during the decision-making process. While all heroes released so far in Overwatch 2 have consistent access to Golden Weapons, it remains to be seen if Jade Weapons will get similar treatment in the seasons to come.
Season 15 also brings with it a brand-new Competitive Weapon Variant that remains shrouded in mystery. However, Keller hinted that this new variant would offer an extraordinary aesthetic, describing it as “spectacular” and “out of this world.” It seems that this could involve more than a mere metallic upgrade, potentially exploring cosmic or celestial designs. Fans can look forward to a reveal during the Overwatch 2 Spotlight event slated for February 12, where more details about these dazzling weapons will likely be unveiled.
