An ESPN report indicates Blizzard will reveal the “next iteration” of Overwatch at BlizzCon 2019 this weekend, tentatively called Overwatch 2. (The final title may be something like Overwatch Chapter 2.) The information comes from a BlizzCon source and a BlizzCon training document, and it includes a new logo and character render (above). These sources detail new modes, maps, heroes, and “PvE features” to be revealed as well.
This new chapter of the game will reportedly emphasize narrative. PvE is said to include hero talents and in-game items, with one story mission dropping four players into Rio de Janeiro. However, the report also states, “Overwatch will see its first new mode since the game was released in beta in 2015, with ‘Push’ set to be unveiled alongside Assault, Control, Escort, Hybrid. Push will be set on a new map based in ‘Toronto,’ according to the (training) document.”
This new game mode and PvE will reportedly be playable at BlizzCon this weekend, and Blizzard is expected to reveal at least one new playable hero as well.
The information in the ESPN report agrees with a Kotaku report from this past June that said Blizzard had canceled an unannounced StarCraft FPS in order to relocate resources to Overwatch 2 and Diablo IV. The Kotaku report also stated Overwatch 2 would contain a “large PVE element.”
Today, a Reddit post offered an alleged look at Overwatch 2’s new character along with some of the features that may be present in the new game, including talents. Its validity of course cannot be confirmed.
Blizzard has made no official announcement about the existence of Overwatch 2 or its making an appearance at BlizzCon, but the ESPN report seems credible. Stay tuned in the coming days for developments.