06-Jan-2025, 01:33 PM
The Overwatch Champions Series (OWCS) is set to make a significant return to China in the 2025 season, marking a pivotal moment for Overwatch esports in the region. This expansion will introduce a dedicated Chinese region for the competition, which is part of the broader OWCS ecosystem that includes North America, EMEA (Europe, the Middle East, and Africa), and Asia.
The OWCS will kick off with its Champions Clash event at the Hangzhou Esports Center in April 2025. Eight teams will compete in this live event; two teams will advance from each of the four OWCS regions. The Hangzhou venue, known for hosting major esports events, will provide a platform for showcasing top-tier gameplay and engaging local fans. This event is expected to reignite enthusiasm for Overwatch 2 in China, especially following the game’s relaunch in the country.
Blizzard Entertainment has been working to rebuild its relationship with Chinese technology company NetEase, which has led to the reestablishment of servers for Overwatch 2 in China. The new server is scheduled to launch on February 19, 2025, following technical tests that begin earlier in January. This move is crucial as it allows players in China to access Overwatch 2 and participate in the competitive scene.
In addition to the Champions Clash, the OWCS will feature two other major events: the Midseason Championship at the Esports World Cup in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in July 2025, and the November 2025 Dream Hack Stockholm World Finals.. These events will further solidify Overwatch’s presence on the global esports stage.
The OWCS has undergone significant changes since its inception, including the introduction of a promotion and relegation system and a Partner Program for teams. This program allows partnered teams to receive a share of proceeds from crowdfunded in-game team packs, enhancing financial support for participating organizations.
As Blizzard continues to expand its esports footprint globally, the inclusion of China as a core region within the OWCS reflects its commitment to revitalizing competitive Overwatch. With high-stakes tournaments and a focus on local engagement, 2025 promises to be an exciting year for Overwatch fans and players alike. The upcoming announcements regarding team lineups and ticket sales are highly anticipated as excitement builds for this new chapter in Overwatch esports.
