Overwatch 2 players demand Hero bans in Ranked after ‘elevating’ pro play

They've been a long time coming, but Hero bans have finally been spotted in Overwatch gameplay as the Esports World Cup sparked a new game-changing

Hero bans have been a hot topic for some time now, as players have long thought that there needed to be a mix-up in how the meta works, much like how League of Legends and VALORANT work.

Now that they are on show though, players are demanding that Hero bans make their way to Overwatch 2 Ranked play.

Overwatch Hero bans applauded after Esports World Cup trial

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Hero bans were finally featured in competitive play with the Esports World Cup in Saudi Arabia, where each team could restrict one character in each map - usually, the best-performing Hero on the respective opposition team, pushing enemies to less-favourable metas.

The trial run was a huge success too, as Overwatch talent Kevin "AVRL" Walker claimed it was the "best possible addition" to the esport.

"Hero bans have been the best possible addition to the competitive format I have seen in some time," he said on X (formerly Twitter).

"Absolutely exceeded my expectations in how far it’s elevated the gameplay of pro OW. Far more competitive games. More varied comps. Greater strategical depth."

Overwatch Ranked players demand Hero bans

Unsurprisingly, Ranked players feel like Hero bans would elevate the game too, which is drastically needed considering that the developers have even begun doubting the structure with a revert to 6v6 on the cards.

Taking to Reddit, one fan said, "I want them in every mode. I can always play someone else and doing so is worth it to keep some of these characters out of my games."

Another added, "I would love it if the game rewarded my flexibility." There was some pushback, especially from "one-trick" players who auto-lock specific heroes every game, who would find it frustrating not being able to play with the only character they are comfortable with.

Some players claimed that it would suit Tournament Mode with full teams, but that specific playlist is not yet available in Overwatch.