Overwatch 2's Next Epic Collaboration Outshines One-Punch Man

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Video game collaborations with other forms of media have become increasingly popular in recent years, with games like Fortnite paving the way. However, Overwatch 2 has been somewhat late to the game in terms of incorporating these collaborations into their events. That being said, the recent inclusion of skins licensed from the anime One Punch Man was met with great enthusiasm from players. In particular, the Terrible Tornado Kiriko and Saitama Doomfist cosmetics have become highly coveted items in the game.

Building upon the success of this collaboration, the developers have now announced plans for a future collaboration that looks set to surpass its predecessor. The latest Overwatch 2 roadmap outlines specific plans for Seasons 5 and 6, each of which includes multiple events, supplementary content, and additional mechanics and game modes. Exciting highlights include the Questwatch limited-time event in Season 5 and new story missions in Season 6.

But that's not all - the roadmap also includes plans for Season 7 and beyond, with players eagerly anticipating a new collaboration event and a brand new mode to go along with it. It's clear that Overwatch 2 is committed to pushing the boundaries when it comes to collaborations and delivering an unparalleled gaming experience for players.

Overwatch 2’s One Punch Man Event Missed an Opportunity by Not Adding a Game Mode

The success of the One Punch Man event can be attributed to the perfectly fitting character-themed skins that were attached to the heroes. Due to its immense popularity, game director Aaron Keller announced in March 2023 that more collaborations are in the works for the year. According to Overwatch 2's official roadmap, fans can expect the next collaboration to arrive in either Season 7 or 8. However, some players may have felt that the event lacked something that most of Overwatch 2’s new releases have had: a unique game mode.

It would have been exciting to see a co-op game mode featuring Saitama Doomfist, Genos Genji, Mumen Rider 76, and Tatsumaki Kiriko working together to stop a supervillain, much like their anime counterparts. Another fun game mode could have been a one-punch mode, where players control Saitama Doomfist and attempt to knock out other heroes with a single charge punch until one hero emerges victorious. It’s always a thrill to use an anime character's poses and powers within a completely different game, as proven by Fortnite’s Dragon Ball skins.

Why a New Mode Matters to Overwatch 2’s Upcoming Collaboration

Unique game modes are essential for Overwatch 2's events, especially collaborations, as they provide an extra layer of storytelling and context to the new skins and cosmetics. Take, for instance, the Overwatch Archives event, which offered Uprising, Retribution, and Storm Rising co-op arcade modes, providing insight into Combat Medic Ziegler (Mercy), Lieutenant Windhelm (Reinhardt), and Cadet Oxton's (Tracer) early days in Overwatch, as they fought against the formidable Null Sector horde.

Additionally, the non-canon Battle for Olympus mode added a unique story to the skins, featuring a free-for-all clash of the gods. The recent Starwatch event placed players on either side of a rescue mission, reminiscent of the first moments of Return of the Jedi. These modes also allow players to try out the new cosmetics, enabling them to make informed purchases.

Players can break away from the monotony of Quick Play and the pressure of ranked matches with Overwatch's unique game modes. Lucioball and Junkenstein's Revenge offer non-consequential gameplay, allowing friends to unwind and have fun together. Fans eagerly anticipate Overwatch 2's upcoming collaboration, which promises fresh gameplay and a unique story. Additionally, the collaboration's skins and other new cosmetics can be tested before purchase. The challenge lies in creating a mode that not only entertains but also complements the brand or medium Overwatch 2 collaborates with.