For one reason or the other, Overwatch 2 was not represented during the recently concluded BlizzCon 2021 presentation as was previously leaked. However, Blizzard has provided a deep dive into the game, unveiling several new details about the upcoming hero-shooter. This includes the announcement of two new maps that fans can expect once Overwatch 2 will be released, whenever that may be.
Leakers revealed that the new Overwatch 2 would be featured at BlizzCon 2021, and they were right. The first new map is inspired by Rome, and it features a blend of the classical architecture seen in the real-life city with the more modern designs that have been featured on other Overwatch maps. It appears like a payload map, though it wasn’t stated.
The other new map announced for Overwatch 2 was one based on the City That Never Sleeps – New York. This new Overwatch 2 map will contain tall buildings that the city is popular for, alongside some smaller-scale regions.
“It’s one of the most beautiful pieces of environment art that I think we have made for the entire game and it absolutely took my breath away.”
Welcome to Rome, a new map coming to Overwatch 2. pic.twitter.com/M3FJr03RM3
— Overwatch (@PlayOverwatch) February 19, 2021
For instance, players will be able to visit a pizza shop on the Rome map, as well as the game’s version of the Grand Central Station. Players should also expect customized spins on other iconic New York towers in Overwatch 2 as well.
Sadly, it remains to be seen when players will get to experience these new Overwatch 2 maps. Recent reports imply that the Overwatch 2 launch date isn’t until next year at the earliest, and so it appears fans of the game still have a long wait in front of them.
Those expecting that Blizzard might consider dropping several of these maps in the original Overwatch game to help quell fans over will apparently be frustrated, as the developers gave no sign that these maps will be available prior to the release of Overwatch 2.
Welcome to New York, a new map coming to Overwatch 2. pic.twitter.com/doJtmDZptV
— Overwatch (@PlayOverwatch) February 19, 2021
However, it should be worth mentioning that these upcoming maps won’t actually be exclusive to Overwatch 2. On the contrary, the new maps will also be made available in the first Overwatch game. This is because Overwatch and its sequel share their PvP, and while the titles might eventually mold into a singular experience, that won’t be the situation when Overwatch 2 releases, whenever that might be.
Blizzard has constantly been revealing a few new Overwatch 2 details since announcing these maps, showing off new appearances for staple heroes such as McCree while also additionally discussing the game’s new Hero Missions.
There are still tons for fans to discover about Overwatch 2, so hopefully, the developers keep the new information coming consistently while the wait for its release continues.