A lowdown on Overwatch

What is Overwatch?

Overwatch is a team-based hero shooter video game that launched in 2016. It is a bright, colourful game that features 29 different hero characters with different abilities, so players can find a play style that fits their liking or is best suited for the particular map or mode.

What is the Overwatch League?

In its second season, the Overwatch League has 20 teams based around the world. Each team has between six and 12 players, with six players competing in a match at a time. Teams play two matches per week, split up into four stages, in the 28-game season.

How do you win a match?

Objectives vary on the scenario — attacking something, or defending, or seeking some other kind of goal (like “Capture the Flag”). Teams play best of three rounds, on maps suited to one of the game’s modes — for example, Assault, Escort or Control.

Where do I watch Overwatch League?

It’s available several places online, including Twitch.com, MLG.com and Overwatchleague.com, or via their respective apps.

How much money is involved in this?

It’s tiny in comparison to big-league pro North American athletic leagues, but it’s on it’s way. Players make a minimum of $50,000 (U.S.) a season, with chances for more if they win. The prize pool for Season 2 is $5 million, which grew by from $3.5 million in Season 1. Last year’s winning team, London Spitfire, won $1 million for the championship. The teams engage in a 5050 revenue sharing split with the league.