Overwatch January 7 Experimental Update is here and this patch is now live on Windows PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. We have the complete patch notes for you to read below. This experimental mode will allow you to test and provide feedback on some of the upcoming features and balance changes to the game.
The content which is released as part of experimental updates is not guaranteed if it will actually make it to the final stable release. In this January 7 experimental update, the developers have given buffs to Hanzo and have nerfed Sigma and Hammond.
Here are the official patch notes for the Overwatch January 7 Experimental Update that is now live on all supported platforms of the game.
EXPERIMENTAL MODE
The next experiment begins! This time we’re hoping to get your feedback on some balance changes. We’re using the 2-2-2 Role Queue ruleset so that you can get a feel for how these balance changes might affect the live game.
HERO UPDATES
Ashe
The Viper
- Aim-down-sights damage reduced from 80 to 75
- Aim-down-sights recovery time reduced from 0.7 to 0.65 seconds
Developer Comments: Ashe being able to eliminate 200 health enemy heroes with one headshot while assisted by 30% damage boost became too dominant, especially when combined with the other improvements to her weapon. We are lowering the maximum damage but also the shot recovery time to keep her overall damage output relatively the same.
Hanzo
Storm Arrows
- Shot recovery time reduced from 0.3 to 0.25 seconds
Developer Comments: This rate of fire change improves the feel and effectiveness of the Storm Arrows ability and though small, adds up over the course of firing 5 arrows.
Sigma
Experimental Barrier
- Redeploy cooldown increased from 1 to 2.5 seconds
Developer Comments: We’re increasing the cooldown of Sigma’s barrier to require a higher commitment to its placement and open up additional opportunities for counterplay.
Wrecking Ball
Adaptive Shield
- Shield per target reduced from 100 to 75
Developer Comments: Wrecking Ball’s high mobility and potential for massive shield health have left him a bit too survivable after the overall damage and crowd control in the game have been tuned down. We are reducing the amount of additional shields he generates per target though the base 100 shields from the ability remains unchanged.
This is everything we have from this latest Overwatch Experimental Update. If you’d like to read more game updates and news, check out our Patch Notes section.
