New Streamer-inspired Overwatch Experimental Patch Could Hit Live Servers

A new streamer-led experimental patch is coming to Overwatch with some changes that could translate into the live game.

This isn't the first time players will see an experimental patch make an impact. Previously, streamer-collaborative patches in Overwatch have left a major impression on the community. From simple rebalances in the form of buffs and nerfs to complete reworks, these patches both elate and occasionally infuriate players. At the very least, they provide a challenge and an opportunity for a good time.

Sure, this sounds like fun—but could it ever appear in the live game servers? According to developers, that may not be out of the question.

New Overwatch Experimental Patch Could Go Live, Devs Say

First picked up by Dexerto, developer feedback regarding the experimental patch first appeared as a reply to a post on the Blizzard forums published on Monday, Dec. 6. The original post was making a case for viewing the amount of hours any given player has spent using the experimental patch.

AndyB, Blizzard forums community manager, rejected the idea, calling it a means for "gatekeeping" among other things.

Forum user Bees! commented on the changes and then asked if there was "a chance at least some of the changes will go through to live." This prompted a separate response from AndyB, in which he said he had a note to "poke Geoff and Co. (Hero Balance and Design) this week to ask if we’re entertaining the thought." He promised he would share the result of the discussion if he was able to.

Of course, this led to several replies of players begging AndyB to keep their favorite changes, including higher mobility for D.va and a rework for healing supports. Unfortunately, DBLTAP cannot confirm if any changes were spoken of or if they'll be making their way to live anytime soon.

In the future, AndyB noted that the team will be working with streamers and creators to provide a more coordinated feel, writing, "We’ve been discussing themes internally, and will do so with the next group of creators we work with."

"This first iteration has been a great proof of concept. We’re going to continue to improve and iterate on these, and other community events, as we go." He wrote.

The full patch notes can be found in our companion post.