Uniting gameplay and style: Behind Overwatch 2's complex map design
There are many questions the team keeps in mind when creating a new Overwatch map, but ultimately, we want the art and aesthetics of any given map to add complexity and depth to the gameplay. We have made some changes to the maps to reflect broader Overwatch 2 shifts. One example includes adding cover to existing Overwatch maps to accommodate having one less tank. Another example includes the new daytime and nighttime cycles that make certain areas easier or more difficult to see, and it gives an overall different vibe to each map. This design philosophy and development inspiration is seen throughout the four new Overwatch 2 PvP maps debuting in the April 26th Beta test —New Queen Street in Toronto, Colosseo in Rome, Midtown in New York City, and Circuit Royal in Monte Carlo!
New Queen Street and Colosseo are the first maps for the new Overwatch 2 core game mode Push. Players will begin their match on opposite sides of a mirrored map and meet in the middle to push the robot forward to either end of their opposing paths. “Most of the goals for these maps align with the goals of the game mode. Push is inherently faster paced than other game modes like Control and Escort,” says Game Director Aaron Keller. He goes on to describe the Push maps as, “...a little more porous, meaning it’s easier for flanking. You need to watch multiple locations.”
Because Push maps are symmetrical, there are several design choices that differentiate opposing sides of the map. “We wanted to make subtle changes, like one half of the map having cooler tones and the opposite side being warmer. You will notice that the signs, storefronts, and aesthetics are unique to each side,” says Art Director Dion Rogers. The team utilizes these design choices to
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