Blizzard's recent "Quick Play Hacked: 1-3-2" event in Overwatch has sparked renewed discussion among players regarding the game's shift from 6v6 to 5v5, with many expressing a desire for the return of the older team size.
The event, which temporarily replaced the standard 5v5 format with a 6v6 configuration featuring a dedicated third damage hero slot, allowed players to explore a different dynamic. The setup comprised two support heroes, two tanks, and three damage heroes, offering a variation on the original 6v6 'Open Queue' where team composition was entirely unrestricted. This curated approach aimed to mitigate the chaotic team compositions sometimes seen in Open Queue.
Players reported that the 1-3-2 format significantly enhanced hero role specializations. With an additional tank on the team, heroes like Zarya could adopt a more aggressive stance or provide shields without leaving the backline vulnerable. Dive tanks such as Wrecking Ball could execute their strategies without compromising their team's defense. Even a less-than-optimal tank player could be accommodated without drastically impacting match quality. The presence of a third damage hero also provided more flexibility for flanking maneuvers or added sustained pressure.
This experimental format has been praised for fostering more dynamic engagements and reducing the reliance on rigid choke points that can characterize 5v5 gameplay. Matches during the event were described as more fluid, with a natural rhythm of pushing and retreating. The added player count created opportunities for more intricate team synergies and allowed for daring plays, as even failed attempts did not leave a team critically understaffed. Some players found the unpredictability and potential for dramatic comebacks reminiscent of the now-defunct 'Stadium' game mode.
While Blizzard has not indicated any immediate plans to permanently alter the core 5v5 format, the positive reception to the 6v6 experiment suggests a lingering player appreciation for the previous team size. The event has fueled hope that the developers might consider revisiting 6v6, potentially drawing inspiration from the excitement and strategic depth experienced during the Quick Play Hacked weekend.