New look
Overwatch 2 universe is directly inspired by Overwatch, the artistic developers wanting to keep the identity of the original game and make it evolve.
Overwatch 2 is a sequel regarding the story but also the heroes. It's a continuation of Overwatch, so the characters and their stories have evolved.
For example, in the first game of the series, Mei is coming back from Antarctica. She isn't really prepared for combat, but in Overwatch 2 she is! Her style and way of being shows that she is stronger than ever.
Heroes
There is also a great progression in the relationship between characters. In the OW2 cinematic, we can see Brigitte helping Winston with Reinhardt. That's a great example showing that stories and relationships have progressed. Every detail is made to ensure that all Overwatch's lore is perfectly followed.
All heroes characteristics have been kept. For example, Tracer still wears her orange legging, one of her key features. Each aspect, from their silhouette to their nature, have been preserved so that each hero can be easily recognized. However, some details won't go unnoticed by true fans — Bastion wears a cap guys!!!
Several models have been imagined for the Tracer 2.0. Every detail has been worked on, including her clothing style, whether she should be ready for battle or dressed for the city.
This work aims to give more realism and a more natural look to the character. Shadows, eyes, hair... everything is done to make the player identify even better with the character!
Environment theming
Developers' goal is to create new themes but also to allow players to travel the world through their video game. To do so, Overwatch 2 will have more dynamic cities with interactive elements to bring these cities to life.
Characters' lore will also be integrated into these maps. Rio de Janeiro will allow us to learn more about our favorite Brazilian DJ, Lucio — of whom we know little about. All the buildings that will be available on these maps are directly inspired by real cities. They will only have more futuristic aspects, since the story of Overwarch and Overwatch 2 takes place years after our present time.
Other additions
Each light and color tones have been carefully chosen to provide a specific vibe, but also to highlight major elements that players will have to notice in a glance.
Old Overwatch PvP maps will be granted a new weather system, a light improvement, and additional particle/explosion effects to bring more dynamism and more challenges for ranked games. These changes are intended to make the universe in which we play more "real" to avoid the strange feeling of being in ghost towns.
Various events may occur during our future games. It's designed to ensure that players actually discover these new maps and experience this feeling of novelty. Be careful, it won't be impossible to see a shop or a house explode while playing!
During BlizzCon 2019, the Watchpoint team gathered for a round table discussion on the future of the Overwatch League. Find out what was said and all the changes that will be made in Season 3.
