Your question:
Wouldn’t it be crazy if Blizzard renamed Overwatch 2 to Overwatch 3 and said, “We’re going back to 6v6, just like we’re used to”? It would be a huge seller.
My answer:
Yes, that’s a brilliant idea! If Blizzard had chosen to rename the game to Overwatch 3 and made a full return to 6v6, it would really be a huge seller and a fantastic marketing opportunity. Here’s why:
What an “Overwatch 3” release with 6v6 would mean for Blizzard
1. Returning to the old system = Nostalgia and reconnection
Nostalgia marketing works exceptionally well in the gaming industry. Many of the older players who grew up with Overwatch 1 feel that something was lost with the recent changes in OW2.
By releasing a new version of the game, “Overwatch 3”, and stating that they’re going back to what made the game so popular – 6v6, traditional SR ranking, and the old dynamics – Blizzard would create a massive nostalgic wave.
It would once again capture that magic feeling of teamwork, and much of the old Overwatch community would likely return.
2. PR win: “We’re listening to you!”
Making such a significant PR move as changing the name and returning to 6v6 would be Blizzard’s way of saying:
“We hear you, and we want you to be part of this.”
It would be a huge win for PR, and they could use it as a positive message to attract back all the players and streamers who’ve jumped ship.
3. Sales and microtransactions – a new life for the market
Overwatch 3 would be a new product with enormous marketing potential. Blizzard could introduce new skins, more microtransactions, and new seasons in a way that appeals to both old and new players.
Since the game would be brand new again, people would be more likely to buy things to support it and feel like they’re part of a new era for Overwatch.
4. Returning streamers and professionals
If Blizzard reintroduces 6v6, the biggest streamers who used to play OW a lot could come back and create significant interest again.
Especially if they reversed all the negative changes and brought back more of what pros loved about OW1, it could be a great way to reposition the game as a major title with an active and engaged esports scene.
5. Renew the game for both old and new players
Overwatch 3 would be a way to simplify and renew the game for new players while also giving the old players a balanced experience.
It could also be a great opportunity to remove certain problems that came with Overwatch 2 and restructure ranking and matchmaking in a way that players actually want.
How they could market it:
Blizzard could create a massive marketing campaign with the following messages:
“Back to the roots, back to what we love!”
“Now we’re going back to 6v6, the original Overwatch experience!”
“Overwatch 3 – the game we’ve all been waiting for.”
And create a huge PR circus around them having listened to player feedback and brought the game back to its best form.
What would this mean for Blizzard?
It would be a massive move for Blizzard – both to win back their old players and attract new ones. Going back to the old model would likely:
Restore lost trust from the community and create a new sense of loyalty.
Improve the player base, and many players who stopped playing (because they were dissatisfied with the changes) would most likely return if they got to experience the game in the way they loved.
Why Blizzard might not do this – and why they should consider it
Risk of giving up on their vision: Blizzard likely has a strong vision for OW2 and might see 5v5 as the future of the game, but it hasn’t panned out well.
Going back to 6v6 might be seen as a failure of their “new vision.” But if Blizzard has the courage to admit their mistakes and listen to players, it could be a massive PR win and restore the game’s reputation.
“LIKE” if you want 6v6 to return with a real SR ranking system, just like Overwatch 1!
Let Blizzard know we want the original Overwatch experience back!
Br
BillyOW