Blizzard’s recent announcement ofOverwatch 2has fans buzzing about new heroes, maps, and possible game modes. But according to the game’s lead designer, Jeff Kaplan, there could be much moreOverwatchin store for fans down the line, and not just games.
Jeff Kaplan has stated that he dreams of seeingOverwatchexpand in more than just a sequel. He has stated to Edge Magazine that spinoffs such as cartoons or theatrical releases may be in the future forOverwatch. On top of that, he has speculated about what other types of games would fit into theOverwatchuniverse, with different ones for different characters. Despite talk of different game types, Kaplan has not mentioned other developers taking theOverwatchcast of characters, new or old, for a spin.
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The concept ofOverwatchexisting as another art medium is not a far-fetched one. The game was first announced to the public in the form of a short film, and other shorts have been released since, both to announce new characters and simply to advertise the game as a whole. Considering the expanded lore of the characters, and the fact thatthe characters are beloved by theOverwatchfanbase, it may not be long before Kaplan’s dreams take shape.
This would not be the first time that Blizzard has explored a large project in a medium besides games,as 2010’sWarcraftwill attest. However, as the RottenTomatoes and Metacritic scores of that movie shows, audiences did not find it very enjoyable. While the lore is delightful in small doses, it is very divorced from the gameplay, and there is no guaranteeOverwatch’s story would be as likeable in longer form.
This is not to say that Kaplan could not deliver something fantastic, however. BeforeOverwatch, Kaplan was one of the first quest designers forWorld of Warcraft, describing his job as being a go-between for those in charge of the story and lore and those doing the actual programming. His dedication to and experience with comprehensive, engaging storytelling could serve as the foundation for some truly fantasticOverwatchstories, no matter what form they may take.
Overwatchis available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, and Nintendo Switch.Overwatch 2does not yet have a release date.
