Overwatch is Blizzard Entertainment’s free-to-play, team-based hero shooter. Blizzard describes it as an always-on, ever-evolving game set in an optimistic future, with 5v5 and 6v6 matches. Blizzard now uses the name Overwatch on its official site and on Steam, without the “2” that the free-to-play relaunch carried, so if you are searching for Overwatch 2, this is the same game.
Where to get it on PC
- Steam: the Steam listing is free and installs the game through Steam.
- Battle.net: the official site at overwatch.blizzard.com offers the game through Blizzard’s own Battle.net app.
Either way you need a Battle.net account; Steam lists it as a required third-party account. Steam shows Windows as the only PC platform. Steam also lists cross-platform multiplayer.
What is free and what is paid
Playing is free. The shop sells cosmetics and bundles; at the time of writing Steam also listed a paid “Invasion Bundle” for $14.99. The ESRB descriptor on Steam mentions in-game purchases, and the Australian rating notes chance-based purchases.
Age rating
Steam shows ESRB T (Teen) for blood, mild language, use of tobacco and violence, and PEGI 12.
Minimum PC requirements (Steam)
- 64-bit Windows 10 (latest service pack)
- Intel Core i3 or AMD Phenom X3 8650
- 6 GB RAM
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 600 series or AMD Radeon HD 7000 series
- DirectX 11, broadband connection, 50 GB free space
Controllers and accessibility
Steam lists full controller support, including DualShock and DualSense controllers. It also lists a longer accessibility list than most shooters: adjustable text size, colour alternatives, subtitle options, camera comfort settings, and speech-to-text and text-to-speech for chat.
Safety and bans
Blizzard distributes Overwatch only through Battle.net and the stores above. “Free coins” offers and third-party installers are scams. Aim-assist programs and other cheats break Blizzard’s rules and can get the whole Battle.net account suspended.
Questions
Is Overwatch 2 still available?
Yes. It is the same game, now titled Overwatch on Steam and on Blizzard’s site.
Do I need Battle.net if I install from Steam?
You need a Battle.net account, which Steam lists as required.
How big is the download?
Steam lists 50 GB of available space as the minimum.
Can I play with a controller on PC?
Yes. Steam lists full controller support.
