WithOverwatch 2players still waiting on the sequel’s promised PvE content, which is set to start releasing in 2023, Blizzard will have to make sure that it delivers on every front. Based on what has been shown thus far, fans are expecting deep gameplay and skill trees for the game’s heroes as well ashundreds of hero missions, which will basically serve as side quests. Additionally, players are hoping for meaningful storytelling that highlights important character development. However, presentation will also be key.
With the PvE mode inOverwatch 2, Blizzard needs to ensure that the missions feel more fleshed out than Uprising, Retribution, and Storm Rising. While these co-op levels were strong, they understandably lacked the depth and polish of a full mode. The increased enemy variety and more varied mechanics that have been confirmed forOverwatch 2are a great start, but polished and detailed cinematics will also be key. If Blizzard wanted to really add some style to its missions, pulling in the splash screens fromBorderlandscould do the trick.
RELATED:Changes That Would Make Overwatch 2’s Competitive Experience Better
How Borderlands-Like Splash Screens Could Work in Overwatch 2
In theBorderlandsfranchise, splash screens show up whenever a major character makes their first appearance. From the playableVault Huntersto Sir Hammerlock to the bosses players face off against, these intro screens feature stylized names, a bright background, and a bit of text describing the character. The extra text is often a joke or reference of some kind, playing intoBorderlands’ humorous tone.
Ultimately, these splash screensadd a lot of personality toBorderlands, and they quickly highlight which characters will be more than minor NPCs or easily killable enemies. Since they have been part of the franchise from the very beginning, it is hard to imagineBorderlandswithout them, and they do a great job of hyping up a big character’s arrival. While the jokes could be cut and replaced with a message about what the hero stands for, or a popular voice line, the concept of splash screens makes sense forOverwatch 2.
Whenever a new hero comes onto the scene during anOverwatch 2PvE mission, they could be given a splash screen. For example, footage of an in-development mission showedWidowmakerzipping across an area with her grappling hook, giving off the vibe that she could be a boss encounter for players. If this ends up being the case, she could get a splash screen right before the battle commences, adding an extra cool factor and placing some importance on her fight.
Splash screens seem particularly viable forOverwatch 2’s campaign because some simplified versions already exist in the Junkenstein’s Revenge missions. While they lack the colorful backdrops and unique text for each character, they do provide a close up on the hero as they strike a pose and prepare to attack the player. From Mercy’s mid-rez intro to GargoyleWinstonwaking up before he pounces on players, these zoom-in shots come close to being splash screens.
With the intros for Marionette Echo, Wraith Moira, and Bride Sombra being highlights ofWrath of the Bride, including something similar in the actual PvE campaign would be worthwhile. With some extra color, unique text, and flashier poses, splash screens on par with those in theBorderlandsseries could be achieved. Though they are hardly a must-have feature, it would be fun to see them included, as they would add to the game’s presentation and make each mission feel a bit flashier. From Ramattra’s first appearance to a hero like Tracer zooming in to provide some assistance, plenty of fun moments can be accentuated through splash screens.
Overwatch 2is available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.
MORE:Overwatch 2’s Shambali Monastery Has a Unique Challenge Ahead of It
