The Overwatch Champions Series (OWCS), Overwatch 2’s premier esports ecosystem, is set for a major expansion in 2025 with the addition of a dedicated Chinese competition. This marks a significant milestone for the game’s competitive scene, reinforcing Blizzard’s commitment to fostering esports in the region.
The newly introduced Chinese circuit will debut with Stage One and will stand alongside the existing OWCS regions: Asia (Japan, Korea, and Pacific), EMEA, and North America. This move further solidifies Overwatch 2’s global competitive terrain, providing a structured pathway for teams in China to compete at the highest level.
Live Events and Tournament Structure
The 2025 OWCS season will feature a series of international tournaments, with the first major live event set to take place in Hangzhou, China. This competition, known as Champions Clash, will feature eight teams, with two teams from each regional circuit earning qualification spots. Although details remain limited, the event is expected to bring top-tier competition to one of Overwatch’s most enthusiastic fanbases.
The second live event of the season will be the Midseason Championship, which is scheduled to take place at the Esports World Cup 2025 in Saudi Arabia. This prestigious tournament will showcase the best teams from across all OWCS regions. To cap off the season, the World Finals will be hosted at DreamHack in Stockholm, Sweden, further reinforcing the international appeal of Overwatch 2 esports.
Overwatch Champions Series (image via Getty)Overwatch’s Return to China
The return of Overwatch 2 esports in China aligns with the game’s relaunch in the country. Blizzard has successfully reestablished its partnership with Chinese technology giant NetEase, setting the stage for a revival of the game’s presence in one of its most passionate markets.
A technical test of the new servers is scheduled to take place in January, with an official relaunch date set for February 19th. This long-anticipated return will not only allow Chinese players to rejoin the global community but also create new opportunities for competitive growth in the region.
Major Changes to the OWCS Format
Following the introduction of the Overwatch 2 esports ecosystem in 2024, the OWCS is undergoing a significant transformation for 2025. Among the most notable changes is the implementation of a three-split competitive circuit, which will include promotion and relegation. This new format aims to increase the competitiveness of the league by ensuring that only the best teams maintain their spots in the top tier.
Overwatch Champions Series (image via Getty)Additionally, Overwatch 2 is set to introduce a Partner Program for professional teams. A total of nine teams will be selected for the program, though Blizzard has yet to confirm which organizations will be included. These partnered teams will benefit from a revenue-sharing model, receiving a portion of the proceeds generated through crowdfunded in-game team packs.
A New Era for Overwatch 2 Esports
With the addition of a dedicated Chinese competition, major international events, and a revamped league structure, the 2025 OWCS season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet. As Overwatch 2 continues to expand its esports ecosystem, the game is set to reach new heights in global competitive gaming.
