On paper, the only similarity between Diablo 4 and Overwatch 2 is that the two games are developed by Blizzard. One is a dark, loot-focused RPG and another is a hero shooter that emphasizes PvP, so much so that a large portion of Overwatch 2’s PvE was recently scrapped. Still, with the original Overwatch including some cosmetics directly inspired by the Diablo franchise, it only makes sense for Diablo to return the favor.
While some may balk at the idea of characters from a lighthearted and hopeful universe like Overwatch 2 being included in Diablo 4, the game’s latest crossover showed that Blizzard is willing to have a small bit of fun in the grim setting of Sanctuary. Diablo 4 will be crossing over with KFC of all things to add items such as "The Vessel of Eleven" - a nod to the KFC original recipe - which is a far cry from what one would expect to use against the demons of hell. If Blizzard can include some funny nods to KFC as part of a brand deal, there is no reason that some well-thought-out Overwatch 2 homages cannot follow.
Overwatch 2 Content That Could Come to Diablo 4
Perhaps the most memorable cosmetic option would be a skin for the Druid, of more specifically, one of the Druid’s forms. Those who have tested out a Druid build in Diablo 4 will be well aware that the class can transform into a Werebear, slamming the ground and charging at foes. One interesting cosmetic could see the actual look of the Werebear being swapped out for a Winston cosmetic, with the genetically engineered Gorilla’s Primal Rage giving him some similar-looking attacks.
Other cosmetics could be more traditional, as it is easy to imagine outfits for the various classes that are directly based on Overwatch 2 heroes. The Necromancer is a perfect candidate for a Moira skin given the gloomy aesthetic and Moira’s obsession with darker forms of science. Similarly, the hood worn by the Rogue ensures that a Reaper skin would be a natural fit, while the Barbarian is begging for a Brigitte skin due to her size. As for the Sorceror, Ramattra’s staff means that he could be a good substitute.
Weapon-wise, many Overwatch 2 tools could be integrated into Diablo 4. For instance, the Sorceror’s staff could be swapped out for Mercy’s Caduceus Staff, with players able to purchase the item in Diablo 4’s in-game shop. Hanzo’s bow and Kiriko’s kunai could be wielded by the Rogue, while Genji’s Dragonblade could be another usable weapon. Though many Overwatch 2 guns would have to be left out since they do not fit the world of Diablo and would be odd to see within Sanctuary, melee weapons could easily be slotted in.
One other option for cosmetics is emotes, dialogue, and customization items. Perhaps players can get a title for their Diablo 4 character that references Overwatch 2’s Winton meme, or equip the Overwatch logo on their player card somewhere. Fan favorite emotes could be referenced, like Sombra’s Marionette, while any class that gets a skin based on an Overwatch 2 hero can utter some iconic lines of dialogue whenever that skin is equipped. Hearing a Sorcerer dressed like Mercy reference the “whambulance” could be hilarious, while a Winston-inspired Druid talking about Peanut Butter here and there could be equally humorous.
Obviously, Blizzard would have to tolerate a lot of memes, as seeing Overwatch 2 heroes and items in a PvE game could feel like a slap in the face to those bothered about hero mode’s cancelation. Still, it feels like an excellent opportunity for Blizzard, especially with a Battle Pass system on the way. Making one of the Diablo 4 Battle Passes Overwatch-themed just makes sense, and with Blizzard occasionally including funny gags like Diablo’s cow level in addition to the odd new KFC crossover, a team-up like this would not be as outlandish as it sounds.
Diablo 4 launches on June 6 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.