Blizzard’s overhaul of Overwatch’s competitive esports scene kicked off with the introduction of the Overwatch Champions Series (OWCS), replacing the Overwatch League. This new open format features both online and in-person events and has already held its first two stages along with a summer Major.
The Major took place at DreamHack Dallas 2024, where the OWCS took center stage, marking a significant moment for the game’s revitalization. DreamHack provided the perfect backdrop for Blizzard’s new vision of making Overwatch esports more accessible and authentic.
During the event, Blizzard executives Bailey McCann and Sean Miller emphasized their commitment to creating a more inclusive esports ecosystem. McCann highlighted that the OWCS is designed to cater to the community’s needs, ensuring accessibility for all players and staying true to Overwatch’s original esports vision.
Miller echoed this sentiment, adding that the integration of OWCS into the larger esports scene has allowed the game to reach a broader audience, helping fans connect with the game’s beloved heroes on a deeper level.
At DreamHack, McCann shared that the event’s vibrant atmosphere fulfilled Blizzard’s goal of fostering an authentic community environment for Overwatch esports.
DreamHack’s diverse offerings, including indie showcases, artists’ alley, tabletop gaming, and TTRPGs, meshed seamlessly with the competitive esports component, creating a unique and inclusive experience for attendees. The event served as a perfect platform for both esports fans and general gaming enthusiasts.
In addition to the competitive gaming, DreamHack featured appearances by Overwatch 2 voice actors Anjali Bhimani, Carolina Ravassa, and Valeria Rodriguez. Bhimani praised DreamHack for its constant evolution, remarking on how the event grows and expands with each iteration.
She noted the convention’s effort to be more inclusive, offering opportunities for various types of gamers and interests, which made the event feel welcoming and diverse.
Rodriguez and Ravassa shared their thoughts on the legacy of the Overwatch characters they voice, especially as the game remains prominent in esports. Rodriguez noted how the ongoing esports scene allows the characters to continually live on, leaving a lasting impact on the public eye.
Ravassa added that being part of a dynamic gaming community allows both the characters and their actors to grow alongside the game’s evolving landscape, creating a familial atmosphere within the Overwatch community that continues to expand.
