Overwatch 2 executive producer Jared Neuss hints at the potential reintroduction of the Hanamura map, but with certain modifications to align with the game's current style. As a live service game, Overwatch 2 consistently evolves by introducing fresh content to engage and retain players on a daily basis. The most significant change is the transition to a seasonal model, which incorporates a new themed battle pass, cosmetic skins, and often a new hero for players to unlock and experiment with.
Nevertheless, one of the looming major changes is the upcoming introduction of the Flashpoint PvE mode in Season 6. Although it may not align precisely with Blizzard's earlier vision, Flashpoint emphasizes story missions that contribute to expanding the game's world. In these missions, players unite as a team to confront adversaries on much larger maps. While Season 6, also known as Invasion, introduces two new PvP maps named New Junk City and Suravasa, players are eagerly awaiting the return of beloved favorites from the game's original release. In light of this, Jared Neuss of Blizzard may have some positive news.
While being interviewed on Twitch by Emongg, Overwatch 2 executive producer Jared Neuss shed light on the team's pre-Season 6 update endeavors. Neuss specifically addressed the revival of past content and the team's efforts to incorporate them effectively. Hanamura, a beloved Capture Point map from the original Overwatch, remains a top priority for the team as they continue to explore methods of seamlessly reintegrating it into the core Overwatch 2 experience.
While Hanamura is highly desired by the Overwatch 2 teams, there are currently no immediate plans for its inclusion. However, it is possible that Hanamura could be modified and incorporated as a Flashpoint map to introduce a new and exciting gameplay experience. Neuss, the team member, expresses confidence in the eventual return of old assault maps like Hanamura in Overwatch 2, aiming to recreate the same level of excitement as the original version.
Although we do not intend to reintroduce the 2CP maps immediately, we do plan on utilizing the elements that players loved from those maps in different ways.
Fans initially expressed disappointment when classic assault maps were removed upon the launch of Overwatch 2. However, Blizzard has successfully demonstrated its ability to reintroduce them in innovative ways. In Season 4, Horizon Lunar Colony made an unexpected comeback as a revamped version for the story-driven Galactic Rescue event. While the map incorporated a few new elements and variations, it largely retained the familiar features that longtime fans cherished.
Overwatch 2 can be played on various platforms including PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
Source: Twitch