Heroes of the Storm Revives Brawl Mode: A Nostalgic Return to Unique Map Challenges
Heroes of the Storm is bringing back its popular Heroes Brawl game mode, rebranded as Brawl Mode. This exciting update introduces a rotating selection of over two dozen discontinued maps, each offering unique challenges and gameplay twists. The mode, absent for nearly five years, is currently available on the Public Test Realm (PTR) and will officially launch with the next patch, approximately one month from now.
The original Heroes Brawl, initially launched as Arena Mode in 2016, featured weekly rotating maps with wildly different objectives and rulesets. Inspired by Hearthstone's Tavern Brawls, these varied experiences ranged from all-Nova sniper duels to action-packed arena versions of existing battlefields, even including the PvE mission, Escape from Braxis. However, due to the rising popularity of single-lane maps and the inherent difficulty in maintaining the mode, it was ultimately replaced by ARAM in 2020.
Brawl Mode's return marks a significant event for Heroes of the Storm, especially as it coincides with the game's 10th anniversary on June 2nd, 2025. The new mode will rotate bi-weekly, updating on the 1st and 15th of each month, offering players a fresh challenge every two weeks. Completing three matches within an active Brawl period rewards players with a special chest. Whether this reward is earned once per Brawl or weekly remains to be seen.
The current PTR iteration features the holiday-themed Snow Brawl. Given the three-week duration indicated in-game, the official launch of Brawl Mode is likely slated for early February.
This revival is a major victory for Heroes of the Storm fans, and many are hopeful that it signifies a broader resurgence for the Blizzard MOBA.
Heroes of the Storm PTR Patch Notes (January 6, 2025)
The latest Heroes of the Storm patch is now live on the PTR, offering a chance to test upcoming changes. Please report any bugs encountered on the PTR Bug Report forum.
General:
- Updated Homescreen and Startup Music.
- NEW: Brawl Mode added! Brawls rotate on the 1st and 15th of each month.
Balance Update:
Significant balance adjustments have been made to several heroes, including Auriel, Chromie, Johanna, Tracer, and Zul'jin. These adjustments affect various talents and base abilities, altering damage output, mana costs, cooldowns, and other key stats. (Detailed hero-specific changes are listed below).
Bug Fixes:
Numerous bug fixes have been implemented across the game, addressing issues related to experience globes, root visual effects, slowing effects, and various hero-specific problems. (Detailed bug fixes are listed below).
(Note: The detailed hero balance updates and bug fixes from the original input have been omitted for brevity, but are implied in the summary.)
