Overwatch patch adds spectator features, new OWL skins

A new Overwatch patch is now live across all platforms. Patch 1.32.1 includes updates to the spectator client and introduces new Overwatch League skins to the game.

The patch primarily focuses on preparation for the next Overwatch League Season, which begins in February.

The in-game spectator client has now been updated to show more match details. The changes include an update on hero portraits to display status effects such as being stunned or frozen.

This change will have an impact not only on privately spectated games, but for those watching streamed Overwatch League matches. Each effect has a small illustration that appears at the top of the screen, making it a little easier for viewers to keep an eye on what is happening and which heroes in the game are under attack.

The next two changes to the spectator client are for private viewing, as players may now access the same functionalities available to professional broadcasters. Over-the-shoulder viewing can now be activated in the spectator options, along with a setting to turn off automatic voice line banter between the heroes.

The Overwatch League 2019 expansion team skins are now available for purchase.  These include skins for the Atlanta Reign, Chengdu Hunters, Guangzhou Charge, Hangzhou Spark, Paris Eternal, Toronto Defiant, Vancouver Titans, and Washington Justice. Each skin is based on team uniforms and is available for purchase for each hero in the game.

With the introduction of away team variants during the last live patch update, players will now receive for free the away version of every OWL skin they buy.

The Overwatch League’s second season starts on February 14, with just one more patch update scheduled before the first matches. League commissioner Nate Nanzer has stated that the matches will be played on Patch 1.32.1 in an effort to bring professional games closer to players and the live version that is publicly available at any given time.