Overwatch 2 players subscribed to Xbox Game Pass can now access a variety of free skins, as long as they maintain an active subscription. The game’s arrival on Microsoft’s subscription service has brought with it exciting benefits for players, with Blizzard offering numerous incentives to celebrate the collaboration.

Free Skins for Xbox Game Pass Subscribers

Initially, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers were given the chance to claim an exclusive bundle featuring Legendary skins for Junker Queen and Widowmaker, as well as an epic skin for Kiriko. Now, players who link their Battle.net and Xbox Game Pass accounts by November 11 can unlock even more skins, including the Cardboard Reinhardt, Turtleship D.Va, Cyberdragon Hanzo, Street Runner Genji, Bee Mercy, and Cleric Lifeweaver skins. In addition to these cosmetics, players will receive 30 Mythic Prisms, a rare in-game currency.

However, there’s an important catch to this offer: while these skins will be permanently accessible, other cosmetic rewards will only be available while maintaining an active Game Pass subscription. This has sparked debate among players regarding the true value of these “free” skins.

Skins on a Subscription Basis

In a recent Blizzard blog post, the company confirmed that Xbox Game Pass subscribers can access all Overwatch 2 shop skins from the last three seasons. However, these skins operate on a rental basis, meaning players will only have access to them as long as their subscription remains active. Once the subscription lapses, the skins are no longer available.

Not all skins are included in this rental system. Battle Pass cosmetics, collaborations (like the Transformers skins), Mythics, charity items, BlizzCon rewards, and other promotional skins are exempt from this offering.

Players on Reddit have noted that, as of now, skins from Seasons 9, 10, and 11 are available for rental. Once Season 13 begins, skins from Seasons 10, 11, and 12 will enter the rotation.

Additional Benefits for Game Pass Subscribers

Aside from the skins, Game Pass subscribers can also enjoy a 10% XP boost. This boost will help players progress more quickly through the Overwatch 2 Battle Pass and climb the competitive ranks of the popular hero shooter. It’s a welcome benefit for those looking to level up faster and unlock new rewards.

Game Pass users get access to EVERY* shop skin from the past three seasons – FAQs and Clarification
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Blizzard clarified that subscribers will need to redeem these rewards depending on their platform. PC players can claim them via Battle.net, while console subscribers must redeem their rewards through Xbox. Once redeemed, skins will be available across all platforms, but if accounts are linked after November 11, these benefits won’t be granted.

Rewards for Non-Subscribers

Players who aren’t subscribed to Xbox Game Pass still have opportunities to earn in-game rewards. Through Microsoft Rewards, players can claim an epic Overwatch 2 skin along with 1000 in-game coins. Additionally, with the release of the mid-season update 12, Twitch Drops have returned, offering the chance to unlock the Legendary Flower Child Mei skin, the Sunflower Weapon Charm, and the Grooving Mei emote.

Final Thoughts

While the collaboration between Xbox Game Pass and Overwatch 2 offers exciting new perks, the skin rental system has drawn mixed reactions from the community. On one hand, Game Pass subscribers gain access to a rotating selection of skins and a valuable XP boost, but the temporary nature of these rewards may deter some players.

For those who are dedicated to the game and maintain their subscription, these added perks can enhance their gameplay experience. However, it remains to be seen how well this subscription-based model for cosmetics will be received by the wider Overwatch 2 community. Whether you’re a subscriber or not, there’s still plenty to look forward to in Overwatch 2 with new skins, events, and content updates on the horizon.

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