Overwatch 2: New maps (1)

Source: Blizzard

New Queen Street and Colosseo are the first two maps for the new game mode of Overwatch 2: Thrust. Players start the game on opposite sides of the mirrored maps, then meet in the middle and push the robot into the respective side of the enemy team. “Most of the objectives of these maps can be combined with the objectives of the game mode. The game speed of thrust is inherently faster than other game modes like control and escort,” said Game Director Aaron Keller. He also describes the thrust maps as ” … a little more porous, so flanking is made a little easier. You have to pay attention to multiple locations.”

Overwatch 2: New maps (2)

Source: Blizzard

Because of the symmetry of the push cards, there are various design decisions to differentiate the two sides of the cards. “We wanted to make subtle changes. For example, one half of the card should be dipped in colder tones and the other in warmer tones. You’ll also notice that the signage, storefronts and aesthetics of the two sides are different,” says art director Dion Rogers. The team is using these design decisions for visual cues to clarify and expand on the gameplay objectives of Thrust Mode.

Overwatch 2: New maps (3)

Source: Blizzard

Overwatch 2: New maps (4)

Source: Blizzard

This development strategy can be found in other game modes as well: in the new escort map Circuit Royal and the hybrid map Midtown, players are guided through the environmental design. Rogers explains, “We want to highlight the objective points by making them iconic locations like the fire station and Grand Central Station in Midtown. Players should be able to identify where the important points are on the map, and the game mode should be guided by the world.” This will guide players to the destination points or other points of interest on the maps. Such as Circuit Royal’s uphill serpentine, where it’s essential to work together as a team to change the balance of power in the game. “Serpentines act as bottlenecks. They increase tension and provoke team battles,” Rogers said. “A united team can make it past these, but it takes teamwork.”

Overwatch 2: New maps (5)

Source: Blizzard

Overwatch 2: New Maps (6)

Source: Blizzard

Maps can support game modes in countless ways. In addition, they still represent important storytelling elements that help to create the world of Overwatch Expanding. “We want players to feel like they’ve jumped into the future where these cities are in their golden age,” Rogers says. “With each map, we try to capture – and reflect in our designs – the ‘golden moments’ of the city’s architecture, culture and vision.” Toronto, with all the snow, feels cold, but the red maple leaves give the city a warm, welcoming aura that reflects its multicultural history. At Circuit Royal, the art team tried to capture the opulent architecture of Monte-Carlo and the city’s prestigious races! This is where the super-rich gather to gamble and watch the AIs race. Colosseo in Rome builds on Renaissance themes and the gladiators of antiquity. In New York, there are gigantic skyscrapers and Art Deco influences.

Overwatch 2: New maps (7)

Source: Blizzard

Overwatch 2: New maps (8)

Source: Blizzard

These new maps and features are currently still in development. For future adjustments, we’ll be watching you thoroughly in the April beta to see how players interact with the new locations and game modes! We can’t wait to show you even more! For more Overwatch info, specials, and videos, check out our Overwatch 2 theme page.