How do I pre-download Overwatch 2 on PS5? The Ultimate Guide
As a passionate gamer and content creator always looking out for the latest gaming updates, I couldn‘t be more excited for the upcoming launch of Overwatch 2! This free-to-play FPS sequel has been highly anticipated ever since its original announcement back in 2019 at Blizzcon.
Now finally set to launch on October 4th, I wanted to share this ultimate guide on how to pre-download Overwatch 2 if you‘re a PS5 player – that way you can jump in and play the moment it releases!
When Can I Start Pre-Loading Overwatch 2 on PS5?
Based on statements from Blizzard Entertainment and experience with previous launches, PlayStation 5 players should be able to start pre-loading Overwatch 2 around 12 PM ET on October 4th, 2022 – giving you a solid window of time to download before it launches later that evening.
So if you don‘t see the pre-load available yet on the 4th, make sure to check back around noon when it should be live. With the game expected to have a 50GB file size, you‘ll want as much pre-load time as possible!
Step-by-Step Guide to Pre-downloading on PS5
Downloading Overwatch 2 ahead of release ensures you don‘t have any wait come launch time. Follow these steps:
On your PlayStation 5 home screen, go to the PlayStation Store icon and launch the store.
In the PlayStation Store search bar, search for "Overwatch 2".
Select Overwatch 2 from the search results to open its store page.
Look for the Download button instead of a purchase button since Overwatch 2 is free-to-play.
Click Download to begin the 50GB pre-load download process.
It really is that easy! With pre-loading enabled earlier the same day as launch, you‘ll have plenty of preparation time.
Play Overwatch 2 the Second it Launches
Pre-loading Overwatch 2 means you don‘t have to wait through that 50GB initial download before joining matches. At 8 PM BST/9 PM CEST/3 PM ET on October 4th, the moment the game goes live you‘re already pre-loaded and ready to play!
No need to agonize through a long first-time download while your friends are in game having fun without you. Take advantage of the pre-loading option instead.
Pre-Load Overwatch 2 Without Needing to Purchase
Since Overwatch 2 is free-to-play, you can pre-load the PlayStation 5 version even without needing to put money down on a purchase.
As soon as downloading becomes available on October 4th per my forecasted 12 PM ET pre-load start time, just visit the store page and download away without payment.
Can Non-Overwatch 1 Owners Pre-Load on PS5?
In Overwatch 2‘s previous beta testing periods, pre-loading was locked only for original Overwatch owners – likely because it was treated as early access.
However, with this being the full launch, there should be no restrictions stopping brand new players on PS5 from pre-loading the game ahead of release.
I‘ll confirm once pre-loads start rolling out on October 4th whether first-time players can download or if it‘s still locked to original game owners. Stay tuned to my YouTube channel where I‘ll post any updates!
Either way though since it‘s free, no financial barrier stopping you from playing Overwatch 2 as soon as it launches. Just takes seconds to create that initial Battle.net account and login on your PlayStation.
PS5 Players Get Special Next-Gen Features
While Overwatch 2 will be cross-play compatible across console generations, PS5 specifically gets boosted next-gen features improving gameplay performance and visual quality over PlayStation 4.
Resolution/Framerate/Balanced Graphics Options
According to testing reports from media previews, Overwatch 2 will have special graphics settings options available only to PS5 players:
- Resolution mode runs Overwatch 2 at a native 4K resolution, delivering crisp ultra visuals.
- Framerate mode runs at 1440p resolution but enables 120 FPS gameplay for dramatically smoother performance compared to 60 FPS.
- Balanced mode maintains 1440p resolution and holds 60 FPS lock for a middle ground of visuals and performance.
Having these options makes sure Overwatch 2 plays great whether you prioritize frame rate, visual pop, or a bit of both!
| Graphics Mode | Resolution | Target Framerate |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | Native 4K | 60 FPS |
| Framerate | 1440p | 120 FPS |
| Balanced | 1440p | 60 FPS |
DualSense Controller Haptic Feedback
Sony‘s DualSense controller and its advanced haptics paired beautifully with Overwatch already based on the previous betas. Firing different weapons causes distinct trigger tension pulses while environmental effects make the whole controller subtly rumble for added immersion.
These next-gen PS5 features combined with Overwatch 2‘s complete graphics overhaul and new game mode Push make this the definitive way to play the sequel. Pre-loading it ahead of October 4th launch ensures you experience all these benefits right away!
Now armed with a complete guide to pre-downloading on your PlayStation 5, you‘ll save precious time and be game ready the moment Overwatch 2 launches! Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions about playing Overwatch 2 on PS5 specifically and remember to Like and Subscribe!
