Overwatch 2 Season 16 PC preload size revealed

Overwatch 2’s ^[1] sixteenth season is right around the corner, and PC players can get a head start by preloading the update ahead of launch. With a file size of roughly 6.7 GB via Battle.net, this preload ensures you're ready to dive into all the new content the moment the season goes live on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 7:00 UTC.

Season 16 brings big changes to the game, including the arrival of Freja, a brand-new DPS hero, and the debut of Stadium Mode, an innovative game mode with strategic currency mechanics. Fans of cosmetics can also look forward to DokiWatch-themed skins inspired by anime classics, as well as updates to hero balance and perk system rotations that will shake up the meta.

Here’s what to know about Overwatch 2 Season 16’s preload size for PC players and a guide for how you can preload the update.

Overwatch 2 Season 16 preload size and release date

The preload size for Overwatch 2 Season 16 on PC via Battle.net is about 6.7 GB. The season will launch on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 at 7:00 UTC. Preloading allows players to install the update after it launches, giving them access immediately upon its release.

New season 16 content

Season 16 introduces Freja, a new DPS hero, along with the Stadium Mode, a brand new mode where players can spend currency to get stronger. Players can unlock DokiWatch-themed skins, inspired by Sailor Moon, for heroes including Juno, Brigitte, Widowmaker, Kiriko, Mercy, and D.Va. The update also brings significant balance chances, including hero buffs, nerfs, and Perk system rotations, impacting competitive play.

How to preload the update on Battle.net?

To preload the Season 16 update on PC, players must follow these steps:

1. Open the Battle.net launcher.
2. Log in to their Blizzard account.
3. Click on the Overwatch 2 logo.
4. Players must ensure their game is updated by pressing the “update” button.
5. After updating the game, players can find a “download pre-release content” option under the play button. They must press it to start downloading the Overwatch 2 Season 16 patch.
6. Let the progress bar finish.

A message will appear stating that the pre-release content has been successfully downloaded once the progress bar is complete.

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Why should players preload Overwatch 2 content?

Preloading allows players to avoid server congestion issues during launch times, allowing them to access new content immediately. Since Season 16 introduces big changes to the game, like a new hero, game mode, and balancing adjustments, pre-downloading allows players to transition into the new patch once the season begins.

Can consoles preload?

No, the preload is exclusive to PC players using Battle.net. Although users can download the update in advance, all new content will be locked until the official release of the new season on April 22, 2025.

References

1. [1] "OW2 official website". overwatch.blizzard.com. Retrieved April 19, 2025