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| {{Short description|2024 video game}}
| | {{Infobox video game|title=Assault Ops|image=AssaultOpsCover.png|caption=Cover art|developer=[[Ironmark Studios]]|publisher=[[Titan Interactive]]|director=Lucas Brandt|producer=Morgan Hayes|designer=Felix Turner|programmer=Ryan Delgado|artist=Ava Castillo|writer=Daniel Cross|composer=[[Stephen Barton]]|series=''Assault Ops''|engine=[[Unreal Engine 5]]|platform={{Unbulleted list|[[PlayStation 5]]|[[Windows]]|[[Xbox Series X/S]]}}|released=October 14, 2025|genre=[[First-person shooter]]|modes=[[Single-player]], [[Multiplayer]], [[Cooperative gameplay|Co-op]]}}'''''Assault Ops''''' is a 2025 first-person shooter video game developed by [[Ironmark Studios]] and published by [[Titan Interactive]]. It is the first installment in the ''Assault Ops'' series and draws heavy inspiration from the ''[[Call of Duty]]'' franchise. The game is set in the near future and follows an elite multinational task force combating a rogue private military corporation. It features a cinematic single-player campaign, competitive multiplayer, and a cooperative survival mode called Onslaught. |
| {{Use American English|date=May 2022}}
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| {{Use mdy dates|date=May 2024}}
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| {{Infobox video game | |
| | title = Overwatch 2 | |
| | image = Call of Duty - Black Ops 6 Logo.svg | |
| | caption = | |
| | developer = [[Blizzard Entertainment]] | |
| | publisher = Blizzard Entertainment | |
| | director = Aaron Keller | |
| | producer = | |
| | designer = | |
| | programmer = | |
| | artist = | |
| | writer = | |
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| | series = ''[[Overwatch]]'' | |
| | engine = | |
| | platforms = {{ubl|[[Nintendo Switch]]|[[PlayStation 4]]|[[PlayStation 5]]|[[Windows]]|[[Xbox One]]|[[Xbox Series X/S]]}}
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| | genre = [[First-person shooter]] | |
| | modes = [[Multiplayer]] | |
| | released ='''Early access'''<br>October 4, 2022<br>'''Official release'''<br>August 10, 2023<br> | |
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| '''''Assault Ops''''' is a 2024 [[first-person shooter]] game developed by [[Supreme Studios]] and published by [[Xbox Game Studios]]. The game is part of the ''[[ShooterofIO]]'' franchise and is connected through the story and a spiritual sequel to ''[[ShooterofIO 1: Modern Ops]]'' (2023). ''Assault Ops'' is [[free-to-play]] on [[PlayStation 4]], [[PlayStation 5]], [[Windows]], [[Xbox One]], and [[Xbox Series X/S]]. The game was released on May 29, 2024 and is the
| | ==Gameplay== |
| | ''Assault Ops'' offers three main gameplay experiences: Campaign, Multiplayer, and Onslaught. |
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| | Movement is fluid, with sprinting, sliding, mantling, leaning, diving, and swimming mechanics. Players can customize weapons extensively through the "Arsenal" system, which supports optics, grips, barrels, stocks, magazines, and cosmetic skins. Equipment includes lethal, tactical, and field devices with varying cooldowns or limited uses. |
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| ''Black Ops 6'' boasts the longest production cycle of any mainline ''Call of Duty'' game, spanning four years of development; some Treyarch employees stated that they have been play-testing the game since 2022. Marketing for the game began in May 2024, through the publishing of fictional advertisements on the front pages of several newspaper outlets, such as ''USA Today'' and The ''New York Post'', and the release of several live-action teaser trailers. A full reveal for ''Black Ops 6'' is scheduled to debut on June 9, 2024, following the airing of the 2024 Xbox Games Showcase event.
| | The HUD is minimal and adaptive, displaying only relevant information during combat. Players can enable or disable UI elements for immersion. Gunplay emphasizes quick time-to-kill and tactical positioning. |
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| ==Gameplay== | | === Campaign === |
| {{Further|Gameplay of Overwatch}}
| | The campaign spans 15 missions across diverse locations such as metropolitan rooftops, arctic oil rigs, dense jungles, and desert fortresses. Multiple protagonists provide different perspectives, including Captain Mason Ward (USA), Sergeant Alexei Petrov (Russia), Lieutenant Sofia Alvarez (Spain), and Agent Zara Qureshi (Pakistan). |
| ''Overwatch 2'' is a [[hero shooter]], where players are split into two teams and select a "hero" from a [[Characters of Overwatch|roster of 40 characters]]. Characters are organized into a "damage" class, responsible for offensive efforts; a "support" class, responsible for healing and buffing; and a "tank" class, responsible for creating space for their team. Each character has a unique set of skills, made up of active, passive, and ultimate abilities. ''Overwatch 2'', like its predecessor, primarily centers on [[player versus player]] (PvP) combat across several different modes and maps, and includes both casual and ranked competitive matches.
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| The original ''Overwatch'' was designed for six-on-six team combat, with two of each class on a team. In ''Overwatch 2,'' the number of tank slots was reduced by one, bringing the total number of players per team to five. According to game director Aaron Keller, developers hoped that losing a tank would speed up gameplay as they believed that the original six players scheme rendered gameplay slow. It is also intended to ease the amount of things players and spectators need to watch out for. New maps were designed to include more cover options to compensate for reduced tank-based protection.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.pcgamer.com/overwatch-2-pvp-will-be-5v5-with-only-one-tank-per-team/ | title = Overwatch 2 PvP will be 5v5 with only one Tank per team | first = Andy | last = Chalk | date = May 20, 2021 | accessdate = May 20, 2021 | work = [[PC Gamer]] | archive-date = May 20, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210520201855/https://www.pcgamer.com/overwatch-2-pvp-will-be-5v5-with-only-one-tank-per-team/ | url-status = live }}</ref> Additionally, damage class heroes now have an increased movement speed, support heroes slowly regenerate, and tank heroes were redesigned so they could take on a more offensive role. Heroes were visually refurbished as to reflect the passage of time since the events of the first game.<ref name="vg247 ow2 blizzcon21"/> ''Overwatch 2'' includes a ping system to direct the attention of teammates to specific points on the map.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/22994822/overwatch-2-ping-system-alpha-beta-test | title = Overwatch 2 is getting a ping system; here's how it works | first = Michael | last = McWherter | date = March 24, 2022 | accessdate = March 25, 2022 | work = [[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] | archive-date = April 26, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220426215610/https://www.polygon.com/22994822/overwatch-2-ping-system-alpha-beta-test | url-status = live }}</ref>
| | === Multiplayer === |
| | Multiplayer features classic modes like Team Deathmatch, Domination, and Search and Destroy, alongside new additions such as "Payload Siege" and "Signal Breach". Seasonal updates introduce maps, weapons, and operators. Ranked play offers skill-based matchmaking and seasonal rewards. |
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| The game also introduces a new PvP mode named "Push", similar to [[tug of war]], in which teams vie for control of a robot that pushes a team's payload to the opponent's side of the map. Along with being incorporated into Unranked and Competitive play, Push has become part of the standard map rotation of the [[Overwatch League]], replacing the Assault mode.<ref>{{cite web |date=March 11, 2022 |title=Community Update: 2022 Schedule and Map Pool |url=https://overwatchleague.com/en-us/news/community-update-2022-schedule-and-map-pool |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220414075717/https://overwatchleague.com/en-us/news/community-update-2022-schedule-and-map-pool |archive-date=April 14, 2022 |access-date= |work=Overwatch League}}</ref> Assault maps (colloquially referred to as "2CP", meaning "two control points"), such as Paris and Horizon Lunar Colony, are not available in the core ''Overwatch 2'' game modes as these have been deemed unbalanced in response to community feedback. However, they are available in the form of custom games and sometimes appear in the non-competitive arcade modes, which are switched out daily.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamespot.com/articles/overwatch-2-jeff-kaplan-on-expanding-story-refining-gameplay-and-beards/1100-6488126/ | title = Overwatch 2: Jeff Kaplan On Expanding Story, Refining Gameplay, And Beards | first = Tamoor | last = Hussain | date = February 25, 2021 | accessdate = February 27, 2021 | work = [[GameSpot]] | archive-date = February 27, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210227074844/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/overwatch-2-jeff-kaplan-on-expanding-story-refining-gameplay-and-beards/1100-6488126/ | url-status = live }}</ref>
| | Maps follow a mix of three-lane and open designs, supporting both close-quarters and long-range combat. |
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| ''Overwatch 2'' was released as [[free-to-play]] as opposed to the [[Premium game|premium]] monetization model of its predecessor. It also discontinued [[loot box]]es in favor of a [[battle pass]] system which is offered on a seasonal basis and corresponds with the introduction of new maps and heroes. The game also includes an in-game store where players can purchase cosmetics directly.<ref>{{cite web |last=Parrish |first=Ash |date=June 16, 2022 |title=Overwatch 2 will get rid of loot boxes |url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/6/16/23171133/overwatch-2-loot-boxes-free-to-play |website=[[The Verge]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=McWhertor |first=Michael |date=June 16, 2022 |title=Overwatch 2 ditches loot boxes for battle pass, seasonal model |url=https://www.polygon.com/23171240/overwatch-2-battle-pass-seasons-loot-boxes-f2p |website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] |access-date=June 16, 2022 |archive-date=October 4, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221004200715/https://www.polygon.com/23171240/overwatch-2-battle-pass-seasons-loot-boxes-f2p |url-status=live }}</ref> Blizzard stated that new heroes will be introduced as rewards on the free tier of the battle pass, and players who fail to make the associated tier will have other routes to obtain the hero for free in later seasons.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.eurogamer.net/overwatch-2-heroes-will-be-available-on-the-free-track-of-the-battle-pass | title = Overwatch 2 heroes will be available on the free track of the Battle Pass | first = Victoria | last = Kennedy | date = September 9, 2022 | accessdate = September 9, 2022 | work = [[Eurogamer]] | archive-date = September 10, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220910100002/https://www.eurogamer.net/overwatch-2-heroes-will-be-available-on-the-free-track-of-the-battle-pass | url-status = live }}</ref> In addition to battle pass cosmetics, players can purchase seasonal cosmetics through the in-game store. Further, special events lasting two to three weeks have been offered, offering new cosmetics for completing various challenges as well as new cosmetics available for purchase. With ''Overwatch 2'', Blizzard has also created collaborations with other franchises, including Blizzard's own ''[[Diablo IV]]'', as well as content from third parties such as the anime series ''[[One Punch Man]]'' and ''[[Cowboy Bebop]]'' and the Korean idol group [[Le Sserafim]].
| | === Onslaught === |
| | Onslaught is a wave-based co-op mode for up to four players. Enemies grow stronger over time, with occasional mini-boss encounters. Players earn in-match currency to purchase upgrades, defensive tools, and power weapons. Certain arenas feature hazards like collapsing structures and fire zones. |
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| A Blizzard [[Battle.net]] account is required to play ''Overwatch 2'', regardless of platform. ''Overwatch 2'' features cross-progression, with in-game cosmetic items and progress being shared across PC and console versions.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Wales |first=Matt |date=August 17, 2022 |title=Blizzard details Overwatch account merging ahead of cross-progression launch |language=en-gb |work=[[Eurogamer]] |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/blizzard-details-overwatch-account-merging-ahead-of-cross-progression-launch |url-status=live |access-date=August 18, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220829193320/https://www.eurogamer.net/blizzard-details-overwatch-account-merging-ahead-of-cross-progression-launch |archive-date=August 29, 2022}}</ref> Unlocked cosmetic items, in-game currency, and player statistics from any ''Overwatch'' profile linked to such an account are merged, and are available on all platforms. Competitive skill ratings are separate, with console and PC ranks remaining independent of each other.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cross-progression is coming to Overwatch 2: Account merge FAQ |url=https://playoverwatch.com/en-us/news/23824001/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220930215205/https://playoverwatch.com/en-us/news/23824001/ |archive-date=September 30, 2022 |access-date=August 18, 2022 |website=Overwatch |language=en-US}}</ref>
| | == Plot == |
| | In 2032, Atlas Kinetic, a powerful private military company led by ex-general Victor Kane, begins coordinated attacks on global infrastructure. In response, the UN forms Task Force Orion, uniting top operatives from allied nations. |
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| ===Post-release updates===
| | The story follows the task force as they dismantle Kane's operations from a cyber-espionage hub in Singapore to a missile launch facility in Siberia. The climax takes place in a fortified desert base, where the team thwarts a global-scale cyberattack. |
| Starting in Season 6, in August 2023, three story-based PvE missions were added to the game, with more planned in the future. These advance the lore and narrative of ''Overwatch''. These missions are generally designed to complete multiple objectives, and are similar to previous short-term event missions offered previously from the first ''Overwatch''. These missions are only available as free-to-play game modes during specific seasons, but the player can purchase permanent access to these missions separately or as part of a battle pass bundle.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.polygon.com/23759189/overwatch-2-story-missions-release-date-price-hero-38 | title=Overwatch 2 story missions cost $15 for 'permanent access' in season 6 | website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] | date=June 13, 2023 | access-date=June 13, 2023 | archive-date=June 13, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230613150759/https://www.polygon.com/23759189/overwatch-2-story-missions-release-date-price-hero-38 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.pcgamesn.com/overwatch-2/invasion-story-missions-pve | title = Overwatch 2's story missions are charming romps chained by expectation | first = Ken | last = Allsop | date = August 10, 2023 | accessdate = September 10, 2023 | work = [[PCGamesN]] }}</ref> Further, in September 2023, special Hero Mastery missions were introduced for three heroes, with more planned in the future. These missions are aimed to help the player learn and improve their skills with the given character.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/23861814/overwatch-2-hero-mastery-mode-release-date | title = Overwatch 2 launches new single-player mode, a replayable high-score run | first = Michael | last = McWhertor | date = September 7, 2023 | accessdate = September 10, 2023 | work = [[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] }}</ref>
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| With Season 9, starting in February 2024, a major overhaul of combat and the competitive system was introduced. All heroes gained a boost in health and passive healing, while buffs were applied to all characters with guns or similar weapons. This was intended to improve survivability, remove the likelihood of a character being killed by a simple quick burst of fire as well as to prevent them from being quickly healed. In contrast to the approach since ''Overwatch 2''{{'}}s launch, which progressed a player's rank after winning 5 games or losing 15, the new system resembled the original ''Overwatch'' approach where the player's competitive ranking is adjusted after each game, with additional information as to what aspects of the match contributed to the ranking change. With these changes, Blizzard announced that all players would have their competitive ranking reset and would need to perform ten matches to gain their starting competitive rank.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.pcgamer.com/blizzard-reveals-a-new-era-of-overwatch-2-bigger-health-bars-self-healing-and-a-reworked-competitive-mode/ | title = Blizzard reveals a new era of Overwatch 2: Bigger health bars, self-healing, and a reworked Competitive mode | first = Tyler | last = Colp | date = February 8, 2024 | accessdate = February 8, 2024 | work = [[PC Gamer]] }}</ref>
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| Within Season 10, to be released in April 2024, new heroes will no longer be tied to the battle passes, and instead free to all players, a retroactive change to include the previous heroes released since ''Overwatch 2''{{'s}} release. Player will still need to have completed the tutorial missions before gaining access to these heroes. <ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.eurogamer.net/overwatch-2-heroes-wont-be-locked-behind-a-battle-pass-starting-in-season-10 | title=Overwatch 2 heroes won't be locked behind a battle pass starting in Season 10 | newspaper=Eurogamer.net | date=March 19, 2024 }}</ref>
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| ==Development== | | ==Development== |
| ''Overwatch 2'' was announced at [[BlizzCon]] on November 1, 2019, with plans that the game would maintain a "shared multiplayer environment" between it and the original ''Overwatch'', so that players in either game could compete in the existing [[player versus player]] (PvP) game modes, retaining all unlocked cosmetics and other features.<ref name="ign ow2"/> [[Jeff Kaplan]], director for ''Overwatch'', explained that this was a major decision and that he had to justify this "player-first standpoint" to Blizzard executives, given the current industry trend to draw in new sales.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.kotaku.com.au/2019/11/convincing-blizzard-to-merge-overwatch-1-and-2-was-very-challenging/ | title = Convincing Blizzard To Merge Overwatch 1 And 2 Was 'Very Challenging' | first = Alex | last = Walker | date = November 5, 2019 | access-date = November 5, 2019 | work = [[Kotaku]] | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191104231010/https://www.kotaku.com.au/2019/11/convincing-blizzard-to-merge-overwatch-1-and-2-was-very-challenging/ | archive-date = November 4, 2019 | url-status = live }}</ref> All new heroes, maps, and PvP modes were to be added to both games to maintain this shared environment.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.pcgamer.com/overwatch-2-announced-blizzcon-2019/ | title = Overwatch 2 announced: New heroes, co-op story missions, and more | first = Andy | last = Chalk | date = November 1, 2019 | access-date = November 1, 2019 | work = [[PC Gamer]] | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191101200510/https://www.pcgamer.com/overwatch-2-announced-blizzcon-2019/ | archive-date = November 1, 2019 | url-status = live }}</ref> However, ''Overwatch 2'' was later announced as a free-to-play title, and that on its release on October 4, 2022, Blizzard affirmed that ''Overwatch 2'' live services would replace those of the original game; the original ''Overwatch'' servers would be shut down on October 2, 2022.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.eurogamer.net/the-last-day-of-overwatch-1-will-be-2nd-october-blizzard-confirms | title = The last day of Overwatch 1 will be 2nd October, Blizzard confirms | first = Robert | last = Purchase | date = September 15, 2022 | accessdate = September 15, 2022 | work = [[Eurogamer]] | archive-date = September 27, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220927223306/https://www.eurogamer.net/the-last-day-of-overwatch-1-will-be-2nd-october-blizzard-confirms | url-status = live }}</ref> Players retained their existing cosmetics and in-game currency, with remaining loot boxes opened automatically upon the release of ''Overwatch 2''.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamesradar.com/overwatch-2-will-replace-overwatch-at-launch-blizzard-confirms/ | title = Overwatch 2 will replace Overwatch at launch, Blizzard confirms | first = Hirun | last = Cryer | date = June 23, 2022 | accessdate = June 23, 2022 | work = [[GamesRadar]] | archive-date = June 23, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220623105347/https://www.gamesradar.com/overwatch-2-will-replace-overwatch-at-launch-blizzard-confirms/ | url-status = live }}</ref> At least three new heroes were announced to be added to the roster, including Sojourn, a Canadian Overwatch officer, Junker Queen, the ruler of Junkertown, and Kiriko, the protector of Kanezaka.<ref name="gi ow2"/><ref name="polygon ea announce"/>
| | On May 10, 2023, [[Titan Interactive]] confirmed that [[Ironmark Studios]] was developing a new flagship FPS franchise. Early concept art suggested a near-future military setting with global conflict themes. |
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| ''Overwatch 2'' runs on an upgraded version of the original game's engine which allows for larger map sizes to better support the new story-based [[player versus environment]] (PvE) elements.<ref name="ign ow2"/> Additionally, all of the existing heroes received visual redesigns for ''Overwatch 2'', although Blizzard did not expect every hero to have their redesigns finished when the game launched. Twelve of the existing 31 redesigns were completed at the time of ''Overwatch 2''{{'}}s reveal.<ref name="gi ow2">{{cite magazine | url = https://www.gameinformer.com/2019/11/05/details-on-an-unannounced-overwatch-2-hero | title = Details On An Unannounced Overwatch 2 Hero | first = Andrew | last = Reiner | date = November 5, 2019 | access-date = November 7, 2019 | magazine = [[Game Informer]] | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191105234621/https://www.gameinformer.com/2019/11/05/details-on-an-unannounced-overwatch-2-hero | archive-date = November 5, 2019 | url-status = live }}</ref>
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| ''Overwatch 2'' was released for [[Nintendo Switch]], [[PlayStation 4]], [[PlayStation 5]], [[Windows]], [[Xbox One]], and [[Xbox Series X/S]] in [[early access]] on October 4, 2022.<ref name="polygon ea announce">{{cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/23163925/overwatch-2-release-date-free-to-play | title = Overwatch 2 launches in October, will be free-to-play | first = Michael | last = McWhertor | date = June 12, 2022 | accessdate = June 12, 2022 | work = [[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] | archive-date = September 27, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220927195433/https://www.polygon.com/23163925/overwatch-2-release-date-free-to-play | url-status = live }}</ref> Kaplan stated when the game was announced that they were more concerned about quality of the product than timeliness of the release.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.pcgamer.com/i-have-no-idea-when-overwatch-2-will-be-out-jeff-kaplan-says/ | title = 'I have no idea' when Overwatch 2 will be out, Jeff Kaplan says | first = Andy | last = Chalk | date = November 1, 2019 | access-date = November 1, 2019 | work = [[PC Gamer]] | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191102003340/https://www.pcgamer.com/i-have-no-idea-when-overwatch-2-will-be-out-jeff-kaplan-says/ | archive-date = November 2, 2019 | url-status = live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamespot.com/articles/overwatch-2-is-coming-to-nintendo-switch/1100-6471107/ | title = Overwatch 2 Is Coming To Nintendo Switch | first = Jordan | last = Ramee | date = November 1, 2019 | access-date = November 1, 2019 | work = [[GameSpot]] | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191102004142/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/overwatch-2-is-coming-to-nintendo-switch/1100-6471107/ | archive-date = November 2, 2019 | url-status = live }}</ref> Investor documents released in November 2021 reported that the initial 2022 release window was delayed to at least 2023, intended for "giving the teams some extra time to complete production and continue growing their creative resources to support the titles after launch".<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.ign.com/articles/overwatch-2-diablo-4-delayed | title = Overwatch 2 and Diablo 4 Delayed | first = Kat | last = Bailey | date = November 2, 2021 | accessdate = November 2, 2021 | work = [[IGN]] | archive-date = November 2, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211102210140/https://www.ign.com/articles/overwatch-2-diablo-4-delayed | url-status = live }}</ref> Kaplan anticipated that ''Overwatch'' and ''Overwatch 2'' will ultimately merge into a single product to avoid having any engine differences affecting player experience.<ref name="kotaku ow2 clients">{{cite web | url = https://kotaku.com/overwatch-stagnated-because-of-its-sequel-says-directo-1839669473 | title = Overwatch Stagnated Because of Its Sequel, Says Director | first = Nathan | last = Grayson | date = November 7, 2019 | access-date = June 22, 2021 | work = [[Kotaku]] | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191107202358/https://www.kotaku.co.uk/2019/11/07/overwatch-stagnated-because-of-its-sequel-says-director | archive-date = November 7, 2019 | url-status = live }}</ref> Technical director John Lafleur has stated they are also interested in supporting, at minimum, cross-platform progression and are looking at the possibility of cross-platform play.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamespot.com/articles/overwatch-2-new-details-on-beta-cross-play-ping-system-and-more/1100-6491932/ | title = Overwatch 2: New Details On Beta, Cross-Play, Ping System, And More | first = Eddie | last = Makuch | date = May 25, 2021 | accessdate = May 25, 2021 | work = [[GameSpot]] | archive-date = May 25, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210525114624/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/overwatch-2-new-details-on-beta-cross-play-ping-system-and-more/1100-6491932/ | url-status = live }}</ref> In the interim from its announcement prior to release, Kaplan left Blizzard in April 2021, with Aaron Keller taking over the lead development role,<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/22394111/overwatch-jeff-kaplan-quits-blizzard-aaron-keller | title = Overwatch game director Jeff Kaplan leaves Blizzard | first = Michael | last = McWhertor | date = April 20, 2021 | access-date = April 20, 2021 | work = [[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] | archive-date = April 20, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210420174742/https://www.polygon.com/22394111/overwatch-jeff-kaplan-quits-blizzard-aaron-keller | url-status = live }}</ref> while the lead developer for new heroes, Geoff Goodman, left sometime in mid-2022.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.pcgamer.com/overwatch-2-loses-its-lead-hero-designer// | title = Overwatch 2 loses its lead hero designer | first = Tyler | last = Colp | date = September 20, 2022 | accessdate = September 20, 2022 | work = [[PC Gamer]] | archive-date = September 20, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220920202317/https://www.pcgamer.com/overwatch-2-loses-its-lead-hero-designer/ | url-status = live }}</ref>
| | The official reveal came at the Titan Interactive Showcase on August 19, 2024, with a cinematic trailer and live gameplay demo. Closed beta testing occurred in July 2025, followed by an open beta in September. |
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| In March 2022, Blizzard stated that they had put too much focus on ''Overwatch 2'' over the past few years to the detriment of support for the original game, and so changed plans to release ''Overwatch 2'' in parts, with the PvP portion to be released in beta form starting in April 2022 and the PvE part to come at a later time. This would allow them to also continue to support ''Overwatch'' alongside ''Overwatch 2''{{'s}} development.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamesradar.com/focus-on-overwatch-2-left-the-original-game-struggling-blizzard-says/ | title = Focus on Overwatch 2 left the original game struggling, Blizzard says | first = Brittany | last = Vincent | date = March 10, 2022 | accessdate = March 12, 2022 | work = [[GamesRadar]] | archive-date = March 11, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220311064722/https://www.gamesradar.com/focus-on-overwatch-2-left-the-original-game-struggling-blizzard-says/ | url-status = live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2022/3/18/22984763/overwatch-2-beta-release-date-faq-activision-blizzard | title = The Overwatch 2 closed beta starts April 26th on PC only | first = Richard | last = Lawler | date = March 18, 2022 | accessdate = March 25, 2022 | work = [[The Verge]] | archive-date = March 24, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220324200800/https://www.theverge.com/2022/3/18/22984763/overwatch-2-beta-release-date-faq-activision-blizzard | url-status = live }}</ref> Later, [[Blizzard Entertainment|Blizzard]] announced that the first wave of ''Overwatch 2'' invitation-only betas would begin on April 26, 2022, and end on May 17. Access to the closed beta could be earned either by signing up for a chance to participate or by watching select [[Twitch (service)|Twitch]] streamers for a limited time on April 27.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Overwatch 2 PvP Beta |url=https://playoverwatch.com/en-us/beta/ |access-date=April 26, 2022 |website=Overwatch |language=en-US |archive-date=May 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220517112427/https://playoverwatch.com/en-us/beta/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Welcome to the first Overwatch 2 PvP Beta |url=https://news.blizzard.com/en-us/overwatch/23798985/welcome-to-the-first-overwatch-2-pvp-beta |access-date=April 26, 2022 |website=news.blizzard.com |language=en |archive-date=April 25, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220425221247/https://news.blizzard.com/en-us/overwatch/23798985/welcome-to-the-first-overwatch-2-pvp-beta |url-status=live }}</ref>
| | == Release == |
| | The game launched on October 14, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S. Pre-order bonuses included early beta access and an exclusive "Shadow Operator" skin. |
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| The game without its PvE mode was released as [[early access]] on October 4, 2022, for Windows, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2022/6/12/23164896/overwatch-2-pvp-early-access-release-date | title = Overwatch 2 will be free to play and has an early access release date | first = Jay | last = Peters | date = June 12, 2022 | accessdate = October 4, 2022 | work = [[The Verge]] | archive-date = October 5, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20221005002357/https://www.theverge.com/2022/6/12/23164896/overwatch-2-pvp-early-access-release-date | url-status = live }}</ref> That day, in addition to a large number of players, the game's servers were hit with a [[distributed denial of service]] (DDOS) attack that made it difficult for many to access the game.<ref>{{cite web |last=Wales |first=Matt |date=October 4, 2022 |title=Blizzard says Overwatch 2 servers experiencing 'mass DDoS attack' |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/blizzard-says-overwatch-2-servers-experiencing-mass-ddos-attack |accessdate=October 4, 2022 |work=[[Eurogamer]] |archive-date=October 5, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221005000359/https://www.eurogamer.net/blizzard-says-overwatch-2-servers-experiencing-mass-ddos-attack |url-status=live }}</ref> Additionally, as part of Blizzard's efforts to reduce [[twinking|smurfing]], the use of new accounts by experienced players as to try to game the system, the company required all players to confirm their identity through a [[SMS]] message on their cell phone linked to their account. For many with [[prepaid cellular]] plans, particularly in the United States, they cannot use SMS on their plans, and effectively locked them out of ''Overwatch 2'', though Blizzard stated they were working to resolve that issue.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamespot.com/articles/overwatch-2-doesnt-work-with-all-prepaid-phone-plans-and-blizzard-will-address-this-soon/1100-6508049/ | title = Overwatch 2 Doesn't Work With All Prepaid Phone Plans, And Blizzard Will Address This Soon | first = Eddie | last = Makuch | date = October 5, 2022 | accessdate = October 5, 2022 | work = [[GameSpot]] | archive-date = October 5, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20221005174717/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/overwatch-2-doesnt-work-with-all-prepaid-phone-plans-and-blizzard-will-address-this-soon/1100-6508049/ | url-status = live }}</ref> By October 7, Blizzard removed the need to verify one's identity for those that had played ''Overwatch'' since at least June 2021.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.vg247.com/blizzard-will-remove-controversial-sms-protect-system | title = Blizzard will remove its controversial SMS Protect system from Overwatch 2, but only for OW1 players | first = Kelsey | last = Raynor | date = October 6, 2022 | accessdate = October 6, 2022 | work = [[VG247]] | archive-date = October 6, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20221006110622/https://www.vg247.com/blizzard-will-remove-controversial-sms-protect-system | url-status = live }}</ref> As a means to make up this lost time to players, Blizzard planned to offer double experience point weekends and free cosmetic items to all players.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.pcgamer.com/overwatch-2-double-xp-weekends-are-coming-to-make-good-on-launch-woes/ | title = Overwatch 2 double XP weekends are coming to make good on launch woes | first = Shaun | last = Prescott | date = October 11, 2022 | accessdate = October 11, 2022 | work = [[PC Gamer]] | archive-date = October 12, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20221012005458/https://www.pcgamer.com/overwatch-2-double-xp-weekends-are-coming-to-make-good-on-launch-woes/ | url-status = live }}</ref>
| | == Reception == |
| | ''Assault Ops'' received generally favorable reviews, with praise for its polished gunplay, cinematic presentation, and variety of modes. Critics noted its strong resemblance to ''Call of Duty'' and limited innovation in competitive multiplayer. The game sold over 12 million copies in its first month. |
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| The game was to feature PvE game modes to be released later in the game's lifecycle, differentiating it from its predecessor. Similar to the [[Overwatch seasonal events|special seasonal events]], they would have consist of four-player cooperative missions against [[non-playable characters]] and were to be available persistent as opposed to a seasonal basis. In this mode, players would garner experience points for their hero and unlock new passive abilities called "talents", allowing them to influence how the hero plays.<ref name="vg247 ow2 blizzcon21">{{cite web | url = https://www.vg247.com/2021/02/20/overwatch-2-hero-missions-maps-weather-hero-looks/ | title = Overwatch 2 features "hundreds" of Hero Missions, character dialogues, updated hero looks, dynamic maps, more | first = Stephany | last = Nunneley | date = February 20, 2021 | accessdate = February 20, 2021 | work = [[VG247]] | archive-date = February 21, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210221141151/https://www.vg247.com/2021/02/20/overwatch-2-hero-missions-maps-weather-hero-looks/ | url-status = live }}</ref><ref name="ign ow2">{{cite web | url = https://www.ign.com/articles/2019/11/01/blizzard-announces-overwatch-2-at-blizzcon | title = Blizzard Announces Overwatch 2 at BlizzCon | first = Michael | last = Domanico | date = November 1, 2019 | access-date = November 1, 2019 | work = [[IGN]] | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191101200920/https://www.ign.com/articles/2019/11/01/blizzard-announces-overwatch-2-at-blizzcon | archive-date = November 1, 2019 | url-status = live }}</ref> However, in May 2023, the developers announced that these extensive plans for PvE had been scrapped, fearing how they would impact the PvP elements. Instead the developers plan to offer story-based events as a replacement for the scrapped PvE.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/overwatch-2s-pve-mode-is-being-scrapped-blizzard-explains-what-happened-and-why/1100-6514242/|last=Hussain|first=Tamoor|date=May 16, 2023|title=Overwatch 2's PvE Hero Mode Is Being Scrapped, Blizzard Explains What Happened and Why|website=[[GameSpot]]|access-date=May 16, 2023|archive-date=June 2, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230602095508/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/overwatch-2s-pve-mode-is-being-scrapped-blizzard-explains-what-happened-and-why/1100-6514242/|url-status=live}}</ref> According to Keller, the concept behind the PvE elements were trying to bring forward gameplay from the cancelled ''[[Titan (Blizzard Entertainment project)|Titan]]'' which ''Overwatch'' was originally based on. However, Keller stated that as they started shifted development to include the PvE elements, the overall project became unfocused, and the lead developers believed that they could not deliver a polished experience and opted to discontinue work in this direction.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.engadget.com/overwatch-2-director-explains-why-hero-missions-were-canceled-211629105.html?src=rss | title = 'Overwatch 2' director explains why hero missions were canceled | first = Will | last = Shanklin | date = May 19, 2023 | accessdate = May 21, 2023 | work = [[Engadget]] | archive-date = May 20, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230520112855/https://www.engadget.com/overwatch-2-director-explains-why-hero-missions-were-canceled-211629105.html?src=rss | url-status = live }}</ref> Blizzard announced players will be required to pay $15 for these new story missions. The purchase will include in-game currency and cosmetic items.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gan |first=Jeremy |title=Overwatch 2 players will need to pay for "permanent access" to PvE story missions |url=https://www.dexerto.com/overwatch/overwatch-2-players-will-need-to-pay-for-permanent-access-to-pve-story-missions-2174710/ |access-date=July 6, 2023 |website=Dexerto |date=June 13, 2023 |language=en |archive-date=September 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230903234937/https://www.dexerto.com/overwatch/overwatch-2-players-will-need-to-pay-for-permanent-access-to-pve-story-missions-2174710/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Jason Schreier of ''[[Bloomberg News]]'' reported in March 2024 that from his sources, Blizzard did not believe the PvE content sold well enough to continue, with the entire PvE having been eliminated and no further plans to continue the PvE missions going forward.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2024-03-22/blizzard-entertainment-makes-big-changes-as-overwatch-2-struggles | title = Blizzard Makes Big Changes as 'Overwatch 2' Struggles | first = Jason | last = Schreier | date = March 22, 2024 | accessdate = March 22, 2024 | work = [[Bloomberg News]] }}</ref>
| | == References == |
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| In March 2024, game director Aaron Keller announced changes to the game's premium battle pass that would make new characters free for all players.<ref>{{Cite web |last=McWhertor |first=Michael |date=March 19, 2024 |title=Overwatch 2 will stop locking new heroes behind a battle pass with season 10 |url=https://www.polygon.com/24084166/overwatch-2-season-10-new-heroes-unlocked-free-venture |access-date=March 19, 2024 |website=Polygon |language=en-US}}</ref>
| | == External links == |
| | [https://www.titaninteractive.com Official website] |
| | {{DEFAULTSORT:Assault Ops}} |
Assault Ops is a 2025 first-person shooter video game developed by Ironmark Studios and published by Titan Interactive. It is the first installment in the Assault Ops series and draws heavy inspiration from the Call of Duty franchise. The game is set in the near future and follows an elite multinational task force combating a rogue private military corporation. It features a cinematic single-player campaign, competitive multiplayer, and a cooperative survival mode called Onslaught.
Assault Ops offers three main gameplay experiences: Campaign, Multiplayer, and Onslaught.
Movement is fluid, with sprinting, sliding, mantling, leaning, diving, and swimming mechanics. Players can customize weapons extensively through the "Arsenal" system, which supports optics, grips, barrels, stocks, magazines, and cosmetic skins. Equipment includes lethal, tactical, and field devices with varying cooldowns or limited uses.
The HUD is minimal and adaptive, displaying only relevant information during combat. Players can enable or disable UI elements for immersion. Gunplay emphasizes quick time-to-kill and tactical positioning.
The campaign spans 15 missions across diverse locations such as metropolitan rooftops, arctic oil rigs, dense jungles, and desert fortresses. Multiple protagonists provide different perspectives, including Captain Mason Ward (USA), Sergeant Alexei Petrov (Russia), Lieutenant Sofia Alvarez (Spain), and Agent Zara Qureshi (Pakistan).
Multiplayer features classic modes like Team Deathmatch, Domination, and Search and Destroy, alongside new additions such as "Payload Siege" and "Signal Breach". Seasonal updates introduce maps, weapons, and operators. Ranked play offers skill-based matchmaking and seasonal rewards.
Maps follow a mix of three-lane and open designs, supporting both close-quarters and long-range combat.
Onslaught is a wave-based co-op mode for up to four players. Enemies grow stronger over time, with occasional mini-boss encounters. Players earn in-match currency to purchase upgrades, defensive tools, and power weapons. Certain arenas feature hazards like collapsing structures and fire zones.
In 2032, Atlas Kinetic, a powerful private military company led by ex-general Victor Kane, begins coordinated attacks on global infrastructure. In response, the UN forms Task Force Orion, uniting top operatives from allied nations.
The story follows the task force as they dismantle Kane's operations from a cyber-espionage hub in Singapore to a missile launch facility in Siberia. The climax takes place in a fortified desert base, where the team thwarts a global-scale cyberattack.
On May 10, 2023, Titan Interactive confirmed that Ironmark Studios was developing a new flagship FPS franchise. Early concept art suggested a near-future military setting with global conflict themes.
The official reveal came at the Titan Interactive Showcase on August 19, 2024, with a cinematic trailer and live gameplay demo. Closed beta testing occurred in July 2025, followed by an open beta in September.
The game launched on October 14, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S. Pre-order bonuses included early beta access and an exclusive "Shadow Operator" skin.
Assault Ops received generally favorable reviews, with praise for its polished gunplay, cinematic presentation, and variety of modes. Critics noted its strong resemblance to Call of Duty and limited innovation in competitive multiplayer. The game sold over 12 million copies in its first month.
Official website
