Overwatch 2is set to bring back every member of the original game’s huge roster while simultaneously working in some fresh additions. As such,characters like Sojournwill be meeting up with already established icons like Tracer and Reinhardt, though when they do cross paths, the older heroes will be looking a bit different. The cast ofOverwatchis set to sport some entirely new visual designs, and these reworks have already taken the internet by storm.
Overall, the franchise’s fan base seems positive on theOverwatch 2redesigns, with Blizzard’s decision to show progression for the heroes being received well thus far. Some characters look older, while others boast altered armor sets or additional pieces of protective gear. While these changes are not as major as the removal of 2 CP modes, the addition of PvE, or the rebuilt sound system, they are a clear step in the right direction — and a sign that Blizzard is listening to constructive criticism.
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Fixing What Didn’t Work About The Old Designs
To be clear, the originalOverwatchdesigns were great overall, with each hero having a distinct style that helps to set them apart.Overwatch’s diversity has also been heavily praised, and rightfully so, as the cast features representation for nearly every race and ethnicity. On top of this, most characters feature some genuinely cool designs, many of which have inspiredawesomeOverwatchcosplaysand skin concepts over the last five years. That said, the designs are not without flaw, something thatOverwatch 2is set to fix with its many hero redesigns.
One obvious example of this is Widowmaker. Aside from a cool new hairstyle and visor, theTalon sniper’sOverwatch 2lookis far more functional and less sexualized. Originally, Widowmaker wore a skin-tight bodysuit that offered little protection. While this would have been fine enough on its own, the decision to have the suit cover everything besides her chest was a clear example of over-sexualization. Completely unnecessary, this added no tactical advantage whatsoever. While it could be argued that Widowmaker’s past work in ballet sees her more open with her sexuality, this design was a bit on the nose — and understandably annoyed some fans.
InOverwatch 2, though, the new design for Widowmaker sees her body entirely covered in a flexible but effective-looking costume. No unnecessary skin is exposed, with only the tattoos on her arms showing. She also has significantly more armor, specifically on her shoulders and elbows. This works well due to her constant use of them while sniping, and the suit fits a no-nonsense assassin like Widowmaker. OtherOverwatch 2redesigns show this same mentality, with a more mature look shown for Mercy. With characters like Reinhardt proudly wearing their age on their sleeve, it makes sense thatsomeone like Mercydoes the same. As such, she now looks like she is in her late 30s, with her blonde hair beginning to get slightly greyer in the next game.Overwatchalso seems to be doing work to address the criticism that all its female heroes have the same faces, with Sojourn’s facial features being distinctly different from the other women in the game.
Expanding On What Did Work About The Old Designs
AlongsideOverwatch 2addressing the key criticisms of the original game’s hero design, the sequel seems poised to build from its original success. Outside of some initialdivisiveness regarding McCree’s redesign, the looks inOverwatch 2come off as natural evolutions of the original models. For example, Reaper looks largely the same to his original look, which makes sense due to how popular the villain’s appearance is. However, smart changes see him getting some increased shoulder padding like Widowmaker, with more protective armor worn to shield him in combat. His metal arms are also shown clearly in the new design, making him look even more intimidating.
The rocket queen Pharah looks largely the same in the sequel, with her armor seeing some minor changes on the waist, shoulders, and wrists. However, a smart adjustment sees players able to see Pharah’s face in the redesigned armor. While she keeps her signature helmet in the new look, the gold faceplate becomes see-through. This minor change instantly allows for players to see the emotion on the hero’s face, making emotes and conversations more effective. This same strategy is seen in otherOverwatch 2looks, updating the heroes in small but smart ways.Lucio’s redesign is particularly clever, with his hair now being used to show whether he is speed boosting or healing – instantly giving teammates a visual that tells them if health is coming their way.
Another great example of wise redesigns is seen withthe controversial hero Mei. Following her awakening from a cryogenic slumber in Antarctica, the scientist has since rejoined theOverwatchteam. While she brings her Endothermic Blaster and robotic companion Snowball along with her, the rest of her old look stays behind. Instead of bulky boots and a large fur coat, Mei’s look is slimmed down. The boots have become robotic, while the fur has been limited to being behind Mei’s neck in the redesign. The new design sees Mei’s topic being thinner, a change that makes logical sense given the fact that she will not always be fighting in a cold environment. Smart decisions like this show that Blizzard is putting thought into these new looks, and seeing this attention carry over to gameplay changes would be awesome to see.
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Carrying This Mentality Over To Gameplay
Based on the most recent footage forOverwatch 2, it seems like the same love being shown for the characters’ appearances is being carried over to their in-game changes. While someOverwatchcharacters will surely go without reworks to their kit, it is clear that Blizzard will be taking a look at others.Reinhardt’s upcoming reworkis an excellent example of this, as Blizzard is going out of its way to make the bulky tank’s gameplay far more engaging comeOverwatch 2.
Despite being one ofOverwatch’s most popular heroesdue to his consistency as a shield-bearer, Blizzard is not content with letting him go untouched. As such, he will now be able to throw two Fire Strikes instead of one, giving players the chance to be more aggressive with their attacks. An even bigger change sees Reinhardt able to cancel pins, adding to this increased intensity for moment-to-moment combat. Players will no longer be punished for taking risks, making the character more fun to play. WithOverwatchneeding to encourage more gamers to fill Tank and Support roles, this change is a great one.
Hopefully, it continues to be seen with other members of the cast, as there are several great options forhero reworks inOverwatch 2. Bastion could be made into less of a niche hero, while Mei could fill the Tank role that she has always seemed destined for. Soldier 76 could get a slightly deeper moveset, while Symmetra can finally find a proper place in the meta. Regardless, Reinhardt’s rework is a great sign, as are the visual redesigns that are coming in the sequel. The originalOverwatchgot so much right, with only small issues seen with a few members of the hero roster. WithOverwatch 2, Blizzard has the chance to leave these small flaws in the past, giving every character a design that is fitting of their personality and backstory.
Overwatch 2is in development for PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One.
