Overwatch 2 has deployed a new balance adjustment hotfix specifically targeting its Stadium game mode, introducing significant changes to several heroes. The update provides substantial buffs to Orisa's defensive capabilities while implementing nerfs to D.Va, Junker Queen, and Pharah. Brigitte receives a combination of both buffs and nerfs, creating a more balanced gameplay experience in the competitive arena.

Season 18 launched on August 26th with transformative updates to Overwatch 2's core gameplay. The introduction of new support hero Wuyang and a complete overhaul of the Perks system marked significant evolution for the game. Stadium mode specifically gained the exciting Payload Race game type along with three additional heroes: Winston, Pharah, and Brigitte, expanding strategic possibilities for competitive players.

The recent hotfix brings targeted adjustments to Stadium mode balance. Orisa emerges as a clear beneficiary with her Refraction Tiles Item now providing 75% beam damage reduction during Javelin Spin, a substantial increase from the previous 50%. Meanwhile, Brigitte's Righteous Cleave Power sees its healing range doubled from 5 to 10 meters, significantly enhancing her support capabilities in team fights.

Several heroes received nerfs to address balance concerns. Pharah's Recursion Battery Power, Blitz Barrage Power, and Overcharged Ordnance Item all received reductions in effectiveness. D.Va's Facetanking Power and Multitask-Mod Item were similarly adjusted downward, while Junker Queen's Royal Bullets Power saw damage reduction. Interestingly, Brigitte's Scavenged Steel Item received a nerf to counterbalance her healing range buff.

Beyond hero adjustments, the update introduces quality-of-life improvements to Stadium mode. The system now accounts for victorious rounds when calculating lost Stadium Points or earned Competitive Points following defeats in Competitive Stadium matches. This change aims to make losses feel less punishing while rewarding players who perform well throughout multi-round competitions, creating a more balanced progression system.

Currently, players can participate in three simultaneous events: the returning Cowboy Bebop collaboration running until September 9th, plus the Summer Games 2025 and Play Like Luka events both concluding on September 16th. These events offer numerous rewards including the exclusive Ein Wrecking Ball skin, new character sprays, Player Icons featuring Hazard, Juno, Freya, and Wuyang, and up to 77 Loot Boxes. Additionally, Junkrat's Loot Hunt returns from September 12th-14th, providing another opportunity for nine additional Loot Boxes.

The detailed patch notes reveal thoughtful developer reasoning behind each change. D.Va's adjustments address her early weapon power spike that created disproportionate efficiency, while Junker Queen's Royal Bullets modification maintains satisfaction while reducing dominance. Orisa's buff helps her counter beam-heavy opponents more effectively, and Pharah's changes represent the first step in dialing back her burst damage potential.

Bug fixes addressed several technical issues, including problems with Brigitte's Shield Bash granting multiple ability triggers, Junkrat's Concussion Mine scaling improperly with Ability Power, and various item interaction issues. These fixes ensure smoother gameplay and more consistent performance across all heroes and items in Stadium mode.