While new hero Sojourn and
hero balances
have been getting most of the spotlight in Overwatch 2, there are also new maps and map updates to explore in the Overwatch 2 beta. Unfortunately, a lot of the map updates have not been a hit with the Overwatch fandom.
Overwatch players have been underwhelmed by the map changes in Overwatch 2, which have mostly been cosmetic. But there
are reasons
behind these seemingly simple changes that have an actual competitive impact, reducing or improving visions in certain tricky spots. Here are all the map changes in the Overwatch 2 beta.
All of Overwatch 2’s map changes
Overwatch 2 recycles a lot of maps from Overwatch 1, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The trouble is that Overwatch 2 is also getting a fairly significant gameplay shakeup from the original. This will likely yield some bigger changes to familiar maps but for now, that’s not the case. Here’s what has changed in the Overwatch 2 beta.
Ilios
Ilios has a more orange tone now thanks to its new evening setting. The sunset has given Ilios a sun-kissed look that matches the Greece-inspired location.
King’s Row
While King’s Row has switched to daytime, the map is still on the darker side thanks to narrow streets surrounded by tall buildings. The city takes on a more sinister feeling since it seems totally abandoned during the middle of the day.
Dorado
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPRRupAM4DI
Dorado has changed to daytime, which is quite jarring from its previous look. Unlike other maps, Dorado is full of activity mid-day, including confetti and other hints of a celebration. This version of Dorado has been seen before in the “Hero” animated short.
Oasis
This complex map has been given a new challenge with nighttime lighting. Oasis now takes place late at night, removing the previously harsh sun. The dimly lit map is the perfect location for flanking, so players will have to stay alert.
Lijiang Tower
Once dark blue due to being nighttime, Lijiang Tower is now bright from the early morning sunrise. This gives the map a lot of dramatic shadowing, especially the buildings. But the sky is a lot clearer than before.
The abandoned, large city takes on an orange tint thanks to the sunset. It feels more dramatic thanks to the new lighting, similar to how it appeared in the “Honor and Glory” cinematic.
Route 66
Route 66 is totally different at night. Usually a dry, sunny, desert-like atmosphere, Route 66 is now a creepy backroad at night. The burning train will light players’ way in an otherwise dim environment.
Olivia Richman
About Olivia Richman
Olivia has worked in media ever since graduating from college, with her coverage ranging from traditional newspaper reporting to digital coverage of all things gaming, online betting, and nerd culture. She has traveled around the world pursuing that coverage, from the far coasts of the United States to the busy downtown core of Tokyo, Japan. Olivia’s favorite games include Overwatch and Super Smash Smash Bros, and she has been published at Esports Illustrated, Inven Global, EsportsInsider, Upcomer, and elsewhere.
Overwatch
Overwatch
Overwatch
Overwatch
Overwatch
Overwatch
Overwatch