Understanding Wide and Narrow Groups in Overwatch 2

Exploring the new Competitive grouping dynamics in Overwatch 2's Season 10 with Wide and Narrow Groups.
Understanding Wide and Narrow Groups in Overwatch 2

Highlights

  • Wide Groups have a larger Rank range and less impact on Rank for wins or losses.
  • Narrow Groups mainly consist of solo queue players and smaller rank ranges.
  • Competitive Play now allows players of all skill levels to group up more freely.

Exploring the changes brought about in Overwatch 2's Season 10 reveals a host of fresh features and alterations to the game, extending beyond just the seasonal theme and Battle Pass. These updates encompass hero adjustments, UX/UI enhancements, and novel elements in the Competitive Play system.

One of the standout additions in Competitive Play is the introduction of Wide Groups and Narrow Groups, forming part of the revamped Competitive grouping regulations. Understanding the roles of Wide and Narrow Groups is crucial for comprehending your competitive advancement holistically.

Decoding Wide Groups & Narrow Groups in Overwatch 2

Prior to Season 10 of Overwatch 2, there existed limitations on player grouping based on their ranks. Players were required to have at least one role eligible within the same SR range as all team members to group up successfully. While the intention was to ensure fair Competitive matchmaking, this often left players frustrated about being unable to play with friends outside their Rank range.

Fortunately, with Season 10's debut, Rank restrictions have undergone a complete overhaul, allowing players of varying skill levels to team up. To ease this significant shift, the new Wide Group and Narrow Group designations have been introduced.

In Overwatch 2, Wide Groups encompass a broader Rank range in their matches, experiencing reduced Rank impact for both victories and defeats. These groups can include duos, trios, or a five-stack, and are exclusively matched against other Wide Group participants.

On the other hand, Narrow Groups consist mainly of solo queue players and occasional groups within a narrow rank range. They are tailored to prevent these players from facing off against enemy groups, often possessing stronger team synergy and wider rank ranges. Unlike Wide Groups, which span larger rank ranges in games, Narrow Groups typically operate within a few divisions. Notably, Competitive Play in a 4-stack Wide group configuration does not function in Season 10, as it avoids pairing a solo queue player (Narrow) within the same pool.