How to spectate matches in Overwatch 2

Overwatch 2 can be daunting for those just starting out, so watching a friend play can be a stress-free way to learn the basics. Here’s how to spectate in Overwatch 2 and watch other players.

Overwatch 2 doubles down on the tactical multiplayer gameplay that made the original so special, throwing in even more heroes and maps to learn. Dedicated players spend dozens of hours learning the nuances of each character so they can climb through the ranks in competitive mode and unlock rewards.

But with so much to learn, it’s easy for new Overwatch 2 players to be overwhelmed by all the different characters and abilities. Luckily, the hero shooter offers a useful spectate feature that allows players to watch and learn from more experienced friends.

Here’s how to spectate in Overwatch 2 and watch a friend play a match.

Which modes can you spectate in Overwatch 2?

The spectate feature is available in three Overwatch 2 modes: Quick Play, Arcade, and Custom Games.

Blizzard have removed the option from Ranked modes in an effort to stop players from receiving any advantage by having a sixth team member deliver callouts or offer advice.

How to spectate friends in Overwatch 2

The method for spectating in Overwatch varies depending on which mode you wish to sit in on. Quick Play and Arcade are done through your Overwatch 2 friends list on the main menu, while the feature can be used in Custom Games from the lobby.

Check out how to spectate in every Overwatch 2 mode below:

Quick Play & Arcade

1. Wait until your friend has successfully loaded into an Overwatch 2 match.
2. From the main menu, open up your friends list.
3. Scroll to the friend you wish to spectate and select their name.
4. Click ‘Spectate’ and wait to be loaded into the game.

Once loaded into the match as a spectator, you will be able to freely watch every player on your friend’s team throughout the match, and you won’t be put in the action yourself if someone leaves early, meaning you can simply sit back and observe.

The only downside is that the same process must be repeated each time, as spectators won’t automatically carry over between matches.

Custom Games

1. Create or join a Custom Games lobby.
2. Move over to the Spectators team at the bottom of the screen.
   • If you didn’t make the lobby, ask the host to change teams for you.
3. Start the match and wait for it to load.
4. Begin freely switching between every player in the game.

It’s worth keeping in mind that there can only be two onlookers per lobby, but players can switch between the spectator, red, and blue team between matches.

All in all, spectating is a perfect way to learn the ropes in Overwatch 2 without the pressure of jumping straight into a game yourself. Alternatively, it’s a great way to take a break from the action while still cheering your friends on.

---

For more on Overwatch 2, be sure to check out our other guides:

Are Overwatch 2 servers down? | Best Overwatch 2 PC settings | Does Overwatch 2 have cross-progression crossplay? | How to transfer Overwatch skins to Overwatch 2 | Is Overwatch 2 free-to-play? | How to play Overwatch 2 on Steam Deck | How to get Golden Guns in Overwatch 2 | How to fix Overwatch 2 different version error | Best Overwatch 2 Heroes | How to join Voice Chat in Overwatch 2 | Who is the most popular Overwatch 2 Heroes | How to check your rank in Overwatch 2 | Is Overwatch 2 split-screen?