The Overwatch 2 community is abuzz on social media over the upcoming field medic’s cosmetic for the Chinese New Year celebration. While the Chinese New Year is an opportunity for games to introduce vibrant cosmetics like dragons, lions, red envelopes, and zodiac animals, Blizzard’s choice for Mercy’s new skin in Overwatch 2 has stepped off on the wrong foot.
Community’s Mixed Reactions to Mercy’s Selection
Despite the early December reveal in the Season 8 trailer, criticisms have not subsided. The main point of contention is why Mercy was chosen to receive a new skin during the Year of the Dragon. Many believe that heroes representing dragon power, such as Genji or Hanzo, or even Lifeweaver.
Mercy’s selection becomes more controversial considering this is her fourth outfit for the Chinese New Year celebrations. Her previous skins include the epic Fortuna (Year of the Rat, 2017) and legendary Seolbim (Year of the Tiger, 2022) and Zhuque (Year of the Dog, 2018). However.
The new Mercy skin will be released during the Chinese New Year event, led by the Dragon according to the Chinese calendar. Starting January 30, it remains to be seen whether it will be available for purchase with Overwatch Coins or as a free reward.
Mercy gets another Lunar New Year skin in #Overwatch2 🐲 pic.twitter.com/fPVO9y3twP
— Overwatch Cavalry (@OWCavalry) December 4, 2023
Overwatch 2 Mercy Skin Controversy for Chinese New Year
The selection of Mercy’s skin for the Chinese New Year in Overwatch 2 highlights the delicate balance between game design and cultural representation. As the community awaits the event’s commencement, it will be interesting to see how Blizzard addresses the feedback and whether this choice impacts future character skin decisions.