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Blizzard Entertainment is interested in exploring Overwatch 2 collaborations and crossovers, according to Vice President Jon Spector. In an interview with GameInformer, Spector said only collaborations that made sense for the franchise would be considered. Blizzard is transitioning the Overwatch franchise to a free-to-play model with the release of Overwatch 2. The sequel will include monetization through a battle pass system which has become a staple of the industry and other cosmetics.
What kind of collaborations can we expect in Overwatch 2?
In the interview, Spector mentioned he enjoyed collaborations like the one Fornite had with the popular anime Naruto. "I'm a big anime nerd myself. I think it's super cool when I see Naruto appear in Fortnite. I don't even play Fortnite, but that's awesome”. However, the development team wants to make sure any collaborations they get into feel “like a great fit for the Overwatch franchise."
In recent years, a number of top brands are entering the gaming space while media franchise crossovers are becoming the norm. Games like Fortnite, Fall Guys, and Free Fire have been capitalizing on the goodwill of media franchises, personalities, and brands for a while now. Fortnite in particular has been proactive in tapping into the hype around IPs like John Wick, Marvel, DC, Star Wars, Rick and Morty, and more.
Since Overwatch is adopting a free-to-play model starting on 4th October, the developer will likely look beyond cosmetics and battle pass sales for monetization. Overwatch had previously collaborated with popular DJ Zedd to create a Zedd Widowmaker skin but the skin was never released for the game.
Blizzard has announced that it will be releasing more than 160 skins for Overwatch 2 by the end of 2023. The game is also adding customizable Mythic Skins.
Overwatch 2’s first Mythic Skin will be Cyber Demon Genji releasing with the battle pass on 4th October. New cosmetics like Name Cards, Weapon Charms, and Souvenirs will also be making their way to the game.
