While it is unclear how Overwatch 2 will approach its seasons or its cosmetics, players can expect the game to feature events just like the original. From the Christmas-themed Winter Wonderland to the spooky Halloween Terror, each of the events brings something special for players to enjoy. However, while most of these events should return in the sequel with some new brawls and skins, one in particular should be retired.
Overwatch 2 should consider making Archives a thing of the past. At one point in time, the event was one of the most popular in the game, as players looked forward to it every time it returned. However, it has become increasingly stale in its most recent appearances, and the sequel would likely make it feel more dated than ever before. If Archives were to be swapped out, a more interesting event could be slotted in to fill the void.
Why Archives Should Be Retired In Overwatch 2
The main attraction of the Archives event is its PvE missions. Players witness Tracer’s first mission in Uprising, experience a Blackwatch mission gone wrong in Retribution, and see some setup for the sequel’s narrative in Storm Rising. All these missions play differently and feel unique, with Null Sector robots and Talon troops mixed in with a variety of objectives. However, players have soured on the event due to the lack of new missions added in its most recent appearances, with Blizzard instead adding variants of the three existing levels.
While it makes sense to focus on designing content for Overwatch 2’s PvE campaign instead of adding new Archives missions, it is that same story mode that would make Archives pointless. Blizzard could add the three existing missions to the PvE campaign, with the Archives cosmetics worked into the regular lineup of unlockable outfits. With the sequel set to focus more on PvE, one new mission a year is a lot less appealing, and it would be better to see missions added consistently as the year goes on. With a proper PvE mode in Overwatch 2, Archives and its sporadic mission additions would no longer be needed.
Potential Events That Overwatch 2 Could Introduce
When it comes to replacing Archives, there are plenty of fun events that could be added in its place. One common request is a Valentine’s Day event, as players have already designed skins like Lovebringer Mercy that would be a perfect fit for it. Voice lines and emotes could play off the existing relationships as well, with Genji preparing a box of chocolates for Mercy or Tracer looking at a picture of Emily. A sadder emote could see Widowmaker holding a memento of her deceased husband, too.
If Blizzard wanted an Overwatch event not directly related to a real-world holiday, there is potential for a fully original concept like Overwatch vs. Talon. Leaning into the ongoing war between the two organizations could prove incredibly interesting, and some unique mechanics could be introduced that focus on the two teams. Obviously, special cosmetics tied to each faction could be incorporated as well.
Regardless of whether Blizzard wants to make an event themed around a real-world holiday or design something entirely new, it would be worth replacing the outdated Archives event. While the three missions should remain, as they have become integral to Overwatch’s lore, there is no reason that they could not be accessible permanently via the PvE campaign. While it is unclear if any events will actually be added or removed when the game launches, Archives would be the easiest one to swap out.
Overwatch 2 is in development for PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One.
