Overwatch 2: Hero Mastery Gauntlet Mode Removal - What You Need to Know

Overwatch 2 is removing the Hero Mastery Gauntlet mode. Here's what you need to know.

Overwatch 2: Hero Mastery Gauntlet Mode Removal - What You Need to Know
Blizzard Entertainment

Blizzard Entertainment has announced the removal of the Hero Mastery Gauntlet mode from Overwatch 2, disappointing fans who enjoyed the tower defense-style co-op gameplay. This decision comes after the developer evaluated various game modes and determined that the Hero Mastery Gauntlet hasn't resonated with players.

When Will Overwatch 2's Hero Mastery Gauntlet Be Removed? 

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Blizzard Entertainment

The Hero Mastery Gauntlet mode, introduced in March 2024, will be unavailable starting in Season 11 of Overwatch 2. This round-based tower defense mode, which allowed players to team up against robot enemies, will be discontinued due to its lack of popularity among the player base.

While the mode had its critics, some players are disheartened by its removal, especially since it represents another scrapped PvE (Player vs. Environment) mode in Overwatch 2's history.

In May 2023, Blizzard announced that it would no longer be adding the long-promised PvE Hero mode, which was initially touted as a major addition to the franchise.

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Time to Complete Challenges

Players have until the end of Season 10 to complete the Lifetime Challenges associated with the Hero Mastery Gauntlet and compete on the mode's Top 500 leaderboards.

These challenges offer rewards such as player icons, sprays, nameplates, titles, and victory poses for heroes like Mercy and Reinhardt.

Solo Hero Mastery Courses Remain

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Blizzard Entertainment

While the co-op Gauntlet mode is being removed, Blizzard has assured players that the single-player Hero Mastery Solo Courses will continue to be available. Additionally, more Solo Courses for different heroes are promised to arrive in upcoming seasons.

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The Future of PvE in Overwatch 2

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Blizzard Entertainment

The removal of the Hero Mastery Gauntlet mode, coupled with the earlier cancellation of the PvE Hero mode, raises concerns about the future of PvE content in Overwatch 2.

However, Blizzard has stated that it remains committed to providing solo PvE experiences through the Hero Mastery Solo Courses.

Summary

Key Information Details
Mode Being Removed Hero Mastery Gauntlet
Removal Timeline Start of Season 11 (expected June 18, 2024)
Reason for Removal Lack of player engagement
Remaining PvE Option Hero Mastery Solo Courses
New Solo Courses Promised for future seasons

As Overwatch 2 continues to evolve, players will have to adapt to the changes brought about by the removal of the Hero Mastery Gauntlet mode. While the decision may disappoint some fans, Blizzard remains committed to providing engaging PvE experiences through the Solo Courses and, potentially, other future additions.

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Overwatch 2

Overwatch 2

Overwatch 2 is a team-based first-person shooter developed and published by Blizzard Entertainment. As a sequel to the original Overwatch, the game introduces new heroes, maps, and game modes, while retaining the core gameplay mechanics that made its predecessor popular. Overwatch 2 features both Player versus Environment (PvE) and Player versus Player (PvP) modes, expanding the story and universe of Overwatch with cooperative missions and narrative-driven content. The game emphasizes teamwork, strategy, and hero-based combat, offering a dynamic and engaging experience for players.

Genres
First-Person Shooter (FPS)
Platform(s)
PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch
Release Date
Oct 4, 2022
Price
Free
Developer(s)
Blizzard Entertainment
Publisher(s)
Blizzard Entertainment
ESRB Rating
T