How Much is Overwatch on Steam: A Comprehensive Guide to Pricing and Editions

Overwatch, the popular team-based first-person shooter developed by Blizzard Entertainment, has been a favorite among gamers since its release in 2016. Initially, the game was only available on Battle.net, Blizzard’s proprietary gaming platform. However, with the rise of Steam as a dominant force in the gaming industry, many players have been wondering if Overwatch is available on Steam and how much it costs.

In this article, we will delve into the world of Overwatch on Steam, exploring the different editions, pricing, and any additional costs associated with the game. We will also discuss the benefits of purchasing Overwatch on Steam and provide a comparison with other platforms.

Table of Contents

Is Overwatch Available on Steam?

The answer to this question is a bit complicated. Overwatch is not directly available on Steam, but it can be purchased through the Steam store as part of a bundle or a subscription service. In 2020, Blizzard Entertainment announced a partnership with Steam, allowing players to purchase Blizzard games, including Overwatch, through the Steam store.

However, it’s essential to note that Overwatch is not a native Steam game, and players will still need to have a Battle.net account to play the game. The Steam version of Overwatch is essentially a wrapper that launches the Battle.net client, allowing players to access the game.

Overwatch Editions and Pricing on Steam

There are several editions of Overwatch available on Steam, each with its unique set of features and price points. Here are the different editions and their prices:

Overwatch Standard Edition

The Standard Edition is the base version of the game, which includes:

The full game
30 heroes
20 maps
4 game modes
Loot boxes (although loot boxes are no longer available for purchase, players can still earn them through gameplay)

The price of the Standard Edition on Steam is $39.99 USD.

Overwatch Origins Edition

The Origins Edition includes everything in the Standard Edition, plus:

5 bonus skins (Blackwatch Reyes, Strike Commander Morrison, Overgrown Bastion, Security Chief Pharah, and Slipstream Tracer)
5 bonus sprays
5 bonus player icons
5 bonus in-game credits (worth $4.99 USD)

The price of the Origins Edition on Steam is $59.99 USD.

Overwatch Game of the Year Edition

The Game of the Year Edition includes everything in the Origins Edition, plus:

10 bonus loot boxes (although loot boxes are no longer available for purchase, players can still earn them through gameplay)
10 bonus in-game credits (worth $9.99 USD)

The price of the Game of the Year Edition on Steam is $69.99 USD.

Overwatch Legendary Edition

The Legendary Edition includes everything in the Game of the Year Edition, plus:

15 bonus skins (including legendary skins)
15 bonus sprays
15 bonus player icons
15 bonus in-game credits (worth $14.99 USD)

The price of the Legendary Edition on Steam is $79.99 USD.

Additional Costs and In-Game Purchases

In addition to the initial purchase price, players may incur additional costs for in-game purchases, such as:

Loot boxes (although loot boxes are no longer available for purchase, players can still earn them through gameplay)
In-game credits (used to purchase cosmetic items, such as skins, sprays, and player icons)
Seasonal events and battle passes (which offer exclusive rewards and challenges)

It’s essential to note that Overwatch has a strong focus on cosmetic items, and players can spend a significant amount of money on in-game purchases. However, it’s also possible to play the game without spending any additional money, as all heroes and game modes are available for free.

Benefits of Purchasing Overwatch on Steam

While Overwatch is not a native Steam game, there are still several benefits to purchasing it on Steam:

Convenience: Steam offers a convenient way to purchase and manage games, including Overwatch.
Community: Steam has a large and active community of players, which can make it easier to find teammates and opponents.
Sales and Discounts: Steam regularly offers sales and discounts on games, including Overwatch.
Integration with Other Steam Games: Players can easily switch between Overwatch and other Steam games, making it a great option for those with large Steam libraries.

Comparison with Other Platforms

Overwatch is available on several platforms, including Battle.net, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. Here’s a comparison of the prices and features on each platform:

As you can see, the prices and features of Overwatch are similar across all platforms. However, the Steam version offers the convenience of being part of a larger gaming ecosystem, as well as regular sales and discounts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Overwatch is not directly available on Steam, but it can be purchased through the Steam store as part of a bundle or a subscription service. The game is available in several editions, each with its unique set of features and price points. While there are additional costs associated with in-game purchases, players can still play the game without spending any additional money.

The benefits of purchasing Overwatch on Steam include convenience, community, sales and discounts, and integration with other Steam games. While the prices and features of Overwatch are similar across all platforms, the Steam version offers a unique set of benefits that make it a great option for PC gamers.

Whether you’re a seasoned Overwatch player or new to the game, we hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to pricing and editions on Steam. Happy gaming!

Is Overwatch available on Steam?

Yes, Overwatch is available on Steam, but with some caveats. Although the game was initially released on Battle.net, Blizzard’s proprietary platform, it has since been made available on other platforms, including Steam. However, it’s essential to note that the Steam version of Overwatch is not a standalone release, and players will still need to create a Battle.net account to play the game.

When you purchase Overwatch on Steam, you’ll receive a Battle.net key, which you’ll need to redeem on the Battle.net website. This will grant you access to the game, and you’ll be able to play it through the Battle.net client. While this may seem like an extra step, it’s a necessary one, as Blizzard uses Battle.net to manage its games and provide features like matchmaking and social tools.

How much does Overwatch cost on Steam?

The price of Overwatch on Steam varies depending on the edition you choose. The base game, which includes the full roster of heroes and all game modes, typically costs around $39.99 USD. However, there are also several special editions available, including the Origins Edition and the Game of the Year Edition, which include additional content like bonus heroes, skins, and other goodies.

It’s worth noting that prices may vary depending on your region and any ongoing sales or promotions. You can check the current price of Overwatch on Steam by visiting the game’s store page. Additionally, Blizzard often offers discounts and bundles, especially during special events or holidays, so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the game’s store page for any deals.

What’s the difference between the standard and Origins editions of Overwatch on Steam?

The main difference between the standard and Origins editions of Overwatch on Steam is the amount of additional content included. The standard edition includes the base game, while the Origins Edition includes several bonus items, such as five bonus heroes, a set of hero skins, and other cosmetic items. The Origins Edition also includes a set of digital goodies, like a soundtrack and a digital art book.

If you’re new to Overwatch, the Origins Edition may be a good choice, as it provides a bit more value and some extra content to get you started. However, if you’re on a budget or just want to play the base game, the standard edition is still a great option. Keep in mind that any additional content can always be purchased separately through the in-game store.

Can I purchase individual heroes or DLC on Steam?

No, individual heroes or DLC packs are not available for purchase on Steam. Blizzard uses a different business model for Overwatch, where new heroes and content are added to the game for free, and players can purchase cosmetic items and loot boxes through the in-game store.

While this may seem limiting, it’s actually a benefit for players, as it means that everyone has access to the same heroes and game modes, regardless of whether they’ve purchased additional content. This helps to create a more balanced and fair gameplay experience, and ensures that everyone can play together without any restrictions.

Is Overwatch on Steam the same as the Battle.net version?

Yes, the Steam version of Overwatch is the same as the Battle.net version. The game is identical across both platforms, with the same heroes, game modes, and features. The only difference is that the Steam version requires a Battle.net account to play, as mentioned earlier.

This means that players on Steam can play with players on Battle.net, and vice versa, without any issues. The game’s matchmaking system is also the same across both platforms, so you’ll be matched with players of similar skill levels and preferences, regardless of whether they’re playing on Steam or Battle.net.

Can I play Overwatch on Steam with my friends who play on Battle.net?

Yes, you can play Overwatch on Steam with your friends who play on Battle.net. As mentioned earlier, the game is identical across both platforms, and players can play together without any issues. You can add your friends to your Battle.net friends list, and then play together in the same game modes and matches.

It’s worth noting that you’ll need to make sure that your friends are playing the same game mode and region as you, in order to play together. However, this is easy to do, and Blizzard provides tools and features to help you manage your friends list and play with your friends across different platforms.

Are there any discounts or promotions available for Overwatch on Steam?

Yes, there are often discounts and promotions available for Overwatch on Steam. Blizzard regularly offers sales and discounts on the game, especially during special events or holidays. You can check the game’s store page on Steam to see if there are any current deals or promotions available.

Additionally, Steam often offers its own discounts and promotions, such as the Steam Summer Sale or the Steam Winter Sale, which can include discounts on Overwatch and other games. You can also follow Blizzard’s social media accounts and sign up for their newsletter to stay informed about any upcoming deals or promotions.