The first competitive season played a crucial role in developing Overwatch’s esports scene. The formation of professional teams and the creation of Overwatch League (OWL) later on in 2017 were direct outcomes of the game’s competitive success. Season 01 laid the groundwork for Overwatch to become a staple in the esports community, with numerous tournaments and events throughout the year, including the inaugural Overwatch World Cup at BlizzCon 2016.

Throughout Season 01, Blizzard Entertainment released several patches aimed at balancing the game and enhancing the competitive experience. Notable patches included adjustments to hero abilities, maps, and gameplay mechanics. For example, early patches addressed concerns with certain heroes being overpowered, such as Widowmaker and Reaper, leading to a more balanced meta as the season progressed.

The inaugural competitive season of Overwatch introduced players to a ranking system that would categorize them into seven ranks: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond, Master, and Grandmaster. The competitive play format required teams of six players, divided into two teams of three: offense, defense, and two support players, though the support role quickly evolved to typically include two dedicated support heroes.