Overwatch Anniversary Event Confirmed, Kicks Off Next Week

The rumored Anniversary event for Overwatch has finally been confirmed and is kicking off next week, Blizzard has announced.

The event, which commemorates the game's first anniversary, begins on May 23. Blizzard hasn't detailed exactly what players can expect from next week's event, though typically Overwatch events include new character skins, emotes, victory poses, and other such additions.

The Anniversary event also coincides with the release of the rumored Overwatch: Game of the Year Edition for PS4, Xbox One, and PC. The Game of the Year Edition includes 10 bonus Loot Boxes, as well as the same bonus content featured in the game's Origins Edition, including the following hero skins for Overwatch:

• Blackwatch Reyes
• Strike-Commander Morrison
• Overgrown Bastion
• Security Chief Pharah
• Slipstream Tracer

Other bonuses include Tracer as a playable character in Heroes of the Storm, a Baby Winston pet for World of Warcraft, and Mercy's Wings in Diablo III. Blizzard hasn't revealed a price for the Overwatch: Game of the Year Edition.

Additionally, Blizzard has announced it is holding another free weekend for Overwatch. From May 26-29, Overwatch players will have access to the full roster of characters and maps in the game. Players will also be able to level up, earn Loot Boxes, and unlock customization options during the free weekend. Those who decide to purchase the game afterward will retain the progress they made during the free weekend.