OWL 2022 scheduled for April start, to be played in early Overwatch 2 build

The Overwatch League 2022 might be more exciting (and closer) than what fans and analysts had expected after reports suggest that OWL 2022 will look to start in April, set to be played in an early build of the upcoming Overwatch 2. 

OWL Vicepresident Jon Spector stated via social media that internal plans included an April 2022 start after speculation of a delayed start that would push the League past summer and even into fall. 

I've seen a lot of speculation regarding a 2022 start date for OWL. We can confirm that our plan is to begin next season in April 2022. We will share more details about 2022 roster construction timelines soon and more info generally on our 2022 season as we get closer to April.

— Jon Spector (@Spex_J) September 3, 2021

Following Spector's comments, several outlets including The Washington Post reported that OWL 2022 will be played on an "early build of Overwatch" according to information provided by an Overwatch League spokesperson. 

With team owners increasingly worried about the stability and viability of the League, they've been pushing for OWL 2022 to leave behind the five-year-old title they've been competing to reignite excitement across the esports community.

On top of this, the recent Activision Blizzard lawsuit has indirectly hurt the League, as sponsors like T-Mobile, Coca-Cola, and State Farm are reconsidering their ties with the company.

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This news follows the rumour that Overwatch 2 had a release date set internally within Blizzard, aiming for an April-June launch window, which would align with OWL 2022 playing on an early build around that time.

It'll be interesting to see players reactions towards this, as Overwatch 2 will bring a massive change to the core mechanics, by downsizing teams from six to five players, removing a tank from the fray. 

For more on all things Overwatch, check out our dedicated section filled with news, tournament results, and more.