Overwatch Assault
Attackers must capture two control points (A then B) before time runs out. Defenders must stop them.
How to Win
Attackers win by capturing both Point A and Point B. Defenders win by preventing Point B from being captured before time expires.
History
Assault maps were part of Overwatch's original launch in 2016 and included iconic maps like Hanamura, Volskaya Industries, Horizon Lunar Colony, Temple of Anubis, and Paris. The mode was removed from competitive rotation with the launch of Overwatch 2 in 2022 due to first-point capture rate imbalances that made it feel frustrating for defenders.
Key Mechanics
- Point A must be captured before Point B becomes accessible
- Capturing Point A resets the attack timer and moves attacker spawn forward
- Defenders get a short spawn advantage at the very start of the round
- Point B is typically harder to capture and has more defender-favorable geometry
- Overtime applies if an attacker is on a point as time expires
Attacking Tips
- Spend ultimates freely on Point A — it is easier to capture, so resource efficiency matters less here
- After capturing Point A, push immediately before defenders set up on Point B
- Coordinate a simultaneous engage from multiple angles on Point B
- Mobility ultimates (Genji blade, Tracer recall) help break entrenched defenses
Defending Tips
- Hold Point A long enough to drain attacker time, but do not lose heroes unnecessarily
- Your true defensive task is Point B — establish it before the transition
- High-ground on Point B is often the single most important positional factor
- Symmetra and Torbjorn turrets are powerful defensive tools on Point B
Recommended Heroes
Tank
Reinhardt, Orisa, Junker Queen
Traditional tanks that enable sustained point holds are effective, especially on Point B chokepoints
Damage
Reaper, Symmetra, Torbjorn
Short-range high-damage and turret heroes dominate the tight, enclosed spaces of 2CP's second points
Support
Ana, Baptiste, Mercy
Sustained healing through long fights on point B is critical — Ana's anti-heal also counters stacked enemies
All Assault Maps (5)
Assault — Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Assault removed from competitive?
Assault was removed from Overwatch 2's competitive mode because Point A had an extremely high attacker capture rate. Defenders rarely felt like they could hold it, making early defense feel futile. The mode produced frustrating one-sided match experiences.
Can I still play Assault maps?
Yes, Assault maps are still available in custom games, some arcade modes, and occasional limited-time events. Maps like Hanamura and Temple of Anubis remain fan favorites and are frequently played in custom lobby settings.
Are any Assault maps in the regular rotation?
Assault maps are not part of the standard competitive or Quick Play rotation in Overwatch 2. They remain available only through custom games and when Blizzard brings them back for special event arcade modes.
What made Point A in Assault so difficult to defend?
Point A was typically an open, central area that favored dive compositions and offensive ultimates. Defenders had a brief spawn advantage but were often overwhelmed by coordinated attacker pushes using abilities that cleared the point before the defense could establish a solid hold.
What were the original Assault maps?
The original Assault maps included Hanamura, Temple of Anubis, Volskaya Industries, and Horizon Lunar Colony. Later additions Paris and Gothenburg were also created for the mode before Assault was removed from competitive rotation.
Is Assault likely to return to competitive rotation?
As of 2024, Blizzard has not indicated plans to bring Assault back to competitive rotation. The mode has fundamental design issues with Point A capture rates that would require significant reworks to address fairly.
What heroes were best for attacking on Assault maps?
Dive heroes like Winston, Tracer, Genji, and Lucio excelled on attack due to their ability to rapidly contest Point A from multiple angles simultaneously. Pharah was also strong on Point A due to the open airspace above most first points.
Was Assault the same as Control mode?
No — Control is symmetrical with no roles and uses a single zone per round. Assault was asymmetrical with dedicated attack and defense sides, featuring two sequential points (A then B) that attackers had to capture in order.
