Overwatch is disappearing! Yes, the groundbreaking team-based FPS is being removed from platforms forever in order for its sequel Overwatch 2 to replace it. But, there is a lot of information you will need to know about the Overwatch server shutdown and the effect it will have on the game before it happens.
From the lack of lootboxes in the sequel to being unable to play for just over a day, there is a lot that will change on October 4 when the Overwatch 2 release date rolls around. So, this guide will give you an overview of all you need to know to properly prepare yourself before October 4.
Read on for information about the Overwatch server shutdown, including when the servers will switch off, what will carry over to Overwatch 2 – and what won’t, and when you will be able to play the sequel.
Overwatch server shutdown Explained
The Overwatch server shutdown has commenced as of October 3, 2022, at 9 am PT / 12 pm ET / 5 pm BST / 6 pm CEST and it will last for approximately 27 hours, as confirmed by Blizzard in a blog post. This announcement was made prior to the shutdown taking place and this period is needed to prepare the servers for the launch of Overwatch 2
As mentioned, during these 27 hours Overwatch won’t be playable. You can play the sequel at 12 pm PST / 3 pm EST / 7 pm BST / 8 pm CEST on October 4. Once Overwatch 2 goes live, all of your cosmetics, stats, and skins will carry over from the original game. However, if you had lootboxes, those won’t carry over and will be automatically opened when you next boot up the game with a host of items from them.
In addition, with Overwatch 2 crossplay and crossprogression being a thing in the sequel, players can merge their accounts and progress from multiple platforms. Blizzard has a deep and detailed FAQ that answers a bunch of questions about account merging here. But, do note this can only be done one time.
With all this information, you should be fully prepared for the Overwatch server shutdown ahead of the sequel releasing. While you are waiting for the servers to kick back up, take a look at our wealth of guides on various parts of Overwatch 2, including the battle pass, list of heroes, deep dives on the three new heroes at launch, and more.