Why Can’t We Play Kiriko in Comp?
The highly anticipated hero, Kiriko, has finally arrived in Overwatch 2, but one question has been on every player’s mind: "Why can’t we play Kiriko in competitive mode?" In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons behind this restriction and explore the implications it has on the game.
New Heroes, New Challenges
New heroes in Overwatch 2 are designed to be locked out of ranked play for a period of time. This is done to ensure that the game’s balance and competitive scene are not disrupted by the introduction of new heroes. Blizzard’s philosophy is to prioritize the integrity of the competitive scene. By limiting the use of new heroes in competitive play, they can fine-tune the hero’s abilities and ensure that the meta is not skewed by a single hero.
Kiriko’s Release Date
Kiriko, the 35th hero in Overwatch 2, was released on October 4th, 2022. As per the standard protocol, she is currently locked out of competitive play for two weeks. This allows players to get familiar with her abilities and playstyle in quick play and other modes before joining the competitive scene.
Composition and Meta
The current meta in Overwatch 2 is dominated by a few popular compositions, and the introduction of Kiriko may disrupt this balance. By limiting her use in competitive play, Blizzard can observe how teams adapt to her abilities and make adjustments to the hero or the meta as needed. Kiriko’s abilities, such as her Swift Step and Talisman, have the potential to significantly impact team compositions.
Unlocking Kiriko
To unlock Kiriko in competitive play, players will need to complete a series of challenges. These challenges include:
- Win 35 games in quick play or competitive mode: This challenge is designed to test players’ skills and adaptability to Kiriko’s abilities.
- Master Kiriko’s abilities: Players must get familiar with Kiriko’s playstyle and master her abilities, including her Swift Step and Talisman.
- Land 5 critical hits without dying: This challenge requires players to demonstrate their precision and game sense.
Comparison to Mercy
Some players have compared Kiriko to Mercy, another support hero in Overwatch 2. While both heroes have healing abilities, Kiriko’s healing output is significantly higher. According to analysis, Kiriko’s healing output is around 72 health per second, compared to Mercy’s 55 health per second. This difference in healing output may have implications for team compositions and strategies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the restriction on playing Kiriko in competitive mode is a necessary measure to ensure the integrity of the competitive scene and the balance of the game. By limiting her use, Blizzard can fine-tune her abilities and ensure that the meta is not disrupted. Players will need to complete a series of challenges to unlock Kiriko in competitive play, and those who do will be rewarded with a powerful and versatile hero.