Following an emotionally charged conclusion to the last season of the Overwatch League, Blizzard has unveiled its plans for a new era of competitive Overwatch. The Overwatch Champions Series (OWCS), a collaboration between Blizzard and ESL FACEIT Group, a prominent esports and gaming company, will usher in this new phase. The OWCS is set to encompass three regions: North America, EMEA, and Asia. Featuring two international LAN tournaments in 2024 where the world’s top talents will once again vie for victory on the stage.
In contrast to the Overwatch League, the previous tier-one Overwatch 2 circuit, which employed franchised teams with formal sponsorships, player contracts, and team branding, OWCS will adopt a fresh model. According to Blizzard, the OWCS model aims to “provide more opportunities for players to become pros, and the introduction of new community platforms to facilitate Overwatch esports operations.”
This implies that the OWCS is likely to adopt a less “exclusive” approach. Making it more accessible for aspiring professional players to ascend the ranks to success.
The new circuit is designed to support teams and players across all levels of the competitive Overwatch community. Aligning with ESL FACEIT’s mission of fostering “vibrant, connecting experiences” across major esports titles, as stated on the company’s website.
The OWCS will be divided into three regions. With EFG operating the leagues in North America and EMEA, and WDG, a Korean tournament organizer involved in running Overwatch Contenders Korea. Overseeing the league in Asia. Blizzard has also emphasized another goal of the OWCS structure: promoting consistent, “always-on” events. To provide teams with a structured environment for continual growth and development.
Following open qualifiers and subsequent OWCS tournaments in each regional league, the top teams from each region will compete in Dallas. For the first major international tournament this summer. The competitive season will conclude with a finals tournament in Sweden in November, marking the return of tier-one Overwatch gameplay to Europe after an extended absence. Each LAN tournament will feature eight teams.
The anticipated distinctions between OWL and the OWCS could foster a competitive environment rooted more in grassroots communities than in large brand-name sponsors and all-star players dominating the scene. The prospect of former OWL stars returning to the competitive stage in the OWCS adds intrigue to the unfolding narrative.
“OWCS introduces a new era of Overwatch esports while honoring the traditions and passion built by Overwatch esports,” said Craig Levine, co-CEO of ESL FACEIT Group, in a press release.
Above all, it is encouraging to note that Blizzard has not yet relinquished its commitment to competitive Overwatch. Further details regarding regional open qualifiers can be found on the OW2 website.
