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Overwatch 2 development studio Blizzard unveils upcoming DPS hero Freja.
The Overwatch 2 Spotlight event revealed a lot of exciting details concerning the future of the hero shooter. It’s been rough for the hero shooter this past year, facing troubles inside and out of the game, such as last year’s DDoS attacks but now the future looks brighter with Freja, the 43rd hero, joining as a new DPS character launching in Season 16.
When will Freja be released?
Freja will be available to play for free across all platforms when Season 16 launches. Season 16 is set to begin in April 2025. A trial weekend will take place sometime during Season 15, though a specific date has yet to be confirmed.
We also got a sneak preview of the hero to come after Freja, set to release sometime in 2025.
Who is Freja?
In the lore, Freja was a search and rescue operative serving under Overwatch before its collapse. In present times, she roams Denmark as a bounty hunter.
Freja will be available to play as the 19th damage hero in Overwatch 2.
Jude Stacey, senior narrative designer at Blizzard, said: “Freja is a hero with a unique arsenal at her fingertips. Armed with an explosive crossbow and a cape that gives her serious airtime, Freja doesn’t play by the rules.
We think you’ll love the new dynamic she brings to Overwatch. Whether you’re the type to strategize, hit the ground running, or hover above it, she’s got something for everyone.
Test your foes with her explosive flare, or wrap them up like a gift with her bola.”
Freja’s kit
Streamers and content creators were able to get early previews of the Freja’s kit. Bear in mind that Freja is still in development and may be subject to change before release.
- Role: Damage – “Damaging an enemy temporarily reduces their healing received. -25% to non-tanks, -12.5% to tanks.”
- Passive Ability: Bounty hunting – “Every 5 killing blows, gain bonus ultimate charge.”
- Primary Fire: Revdraw Crossbow – “Rapidly fire automatic bolts. Effect: Hitscan. Ammo: 12. Headshot: Yes.”
- Secondary Fire: Take Aim – “Slow down your momentum to take aim with a high-speed explosive bolt. Using Quick Dash refreshes Take Aim. Effect: Projectile/Area of Effect. Ammo: 1.”
- Ability 1: Quick Dash – “Vault in the direction you’re moving and refresh Take Aim. Effect: Movement.”
- Ability 2: Updraft – “Launch upward with a gust of wind. Effect: Movement.”
- Ultimate Ability: Bola Shot – “Fire an explosive bola. Hitting an enemy wraps them up and pulls in other nearby enemies. Effect: Projectile/Area of Effect.”
Who is Aqua?
In the Overwatch Spotlight event, we also got a glimpse of our 45th hero joining Overwatch 2 in Season 18.
The hero known as “Aqua” doesn’t have an official name yet. The concept art of his design was revealed after Freja’s breakdown.
Stacey says: “I think it’s fitting to give you a sneak peek at Hero 44. Codenamed ‘Aqua’, this Chinese water wielder has one of the most unique ability sets that we have ever developed. You’ll learn more about him later this year.”
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Featured Image: Blizzard
