The Story Behind Overwatch Characters: Insights from Michael Chu
In this article, we will explore the fascinating stories behind some of the most popular characters in Overwatch. Michael Chu, the lead writer of the game, shares interesting details about how the characters were created and their backstories.
Table of Contents
- The Origins of Doomfist, Genji, Hanzo, and McCree
- Sneaking in Characters: Pharah, Reaper, Sombra, and Tracer
- Ultimate Abilities: Bastion, Hanzo, Junkrat, Mei, Torbjor, and Widowmaker
- Conclusion
The Origins of Doomfist, Genji, Hanzo, and McCree
The creation of Overwatch characters often starts with a name or a concept. Doomfist, for example, was originally just a name mentioned in a movie, and the team was excited to create a character around it. Genji and Hanzo were originally designed as one character, but were split into two due to their unique ninja-samurai hybrid concept. The story of the brothers was inspired by a food documentary, where the older brother inherited his father’s restaurant while the younger brother was free to do what he wanted. McCree, on the other hand, was named after a designer at Blizzard, and the team thought it was the perfect cowboy name.
Sneaking in Characters: Pharah, Reaper, Sombra, and Tracer
The creation of Overwatch heroes often involves sneaking in characters and exploring their backstories. Pharah’s story involves her dream of joining Overwatch, which was cut short when the organization was shut down. Reaper’s backstory was delved into during the Uprising event, and he was revealed to be the personal creation of the creative director, Chris Metze. Sombra’s voice was chosen for her attitude and sense of competence, and her naturalistic way of speaking sets her apart from other characters. Tracer’s iconic giggle was created by working with actress Kara Theovol, who has a natural giggle.
Ultimate Abilities: Bastion, Hanzo, Junkrat, Mei, Torbjor, and Widowmaker
The team behind Overwatch had various ideas for ultimate abilities, including a drone that explodes and a transforming Bastion character. Bastion’s ultimate ability, transforming into a tank, was the 70th or 80th idea created for the character, as the team struggled to find something that fit the robot’s nature-loving personality. Hanzo’s ultimate ability summons a spirit dragon that destroys everything in its path, which was initially designed using simple geometric shapes that made it look like a caterpillar. Junkrat is designed with lost limbs and hair on fire due to his fearless nature with explosives. Mei is voiced by Elise Zhan, who speaks Mandarin and English and embodies the character’s happy and enthusiastic personality. Torbjor’s design is inspired by the dwarves of Warcraft, but with added futuristic elements to make him an Overwatch hero. Widowmaker’s ancestral home is a chateau in France, which she is in the process of redecorating.
Conclusion
The characters in Overwatch are more than just a collection of abilities and skins. They are carefully crafted with unique backstories and personalities that make them come to life. The insights shared by Michael Chu give us a glimpse into the creative process behind the game and how the team brings their ideas to fruition. We can’t wait to see what new characters and stories Overwatch has in store for us in the future.
