Overwatch's loot box system has been the source of a fair amount of frustration and controversy for players. Overwatch itself cost $39.99 for the base game upon release, and $59.99 for the Legendary Edition.

Despite asking players to pay up front to play, the game still utilized a loot box system that had very low drop rates for the premium skins and items available in the game. Blizzard got into some hot water over gambling criticisms of its loot box system, one that it has continued to utilize and receive pushback from. Is the same system coming to Overwatch 2?

Will Overwatch 2 Have Loot Boxes?

Fortunately, Overwatch 2 is ditching the loot boxes from Overwatch. During the reveal event today, Blizzard announced Overwatch 2's release date, Oct. 4, and mapped out some of the planned content it has coming soon for the game. One of the big reveals was that the loot boxes would be no more.

Instead, they are being replaced with the ubiquitous and lucrative free-to-play battle pass model. Popularized by Fortnite and Epic Games, this means that Overwatch 2 will be free for everyone to access and play. However, this does mean that there will be a sharp divide between those willing to invest and those who want the game to remain free.

The sneak peek given of the battle pass detailed the classic free vs premium reward split, and the new Mythic rarity of item is sure to get people engaged in the battle pass for at least the first season.