Overwatch 2’s Juno Almost Had a Very Different Design

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Overwatch 2's Juno Almost Had a Very Different Design

Key Takeaways

  • Overwatch 2 reveals early concept art for Juno, showcasing significant design changes from initial ideas.
  • Juno, a new support hero, underwent alterations in hair, weapon, and suit design before the final version.
  • Fans react positively to the behind-the-scenes look at Juno’s design process, awaiting the arrival of the final hero in 2024.

As a dedicated Overwatch 2 fanatic with over a decade of gaming under my belt, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgic awe when it comes to the recent reveal of Juno’s concept art. The journey from ‘Space Ranger’ to the optimistic Martian support hero we have today is nothing short of fascinating, reminding me of the countless hours I’ve spent watching behind-the-scenes documentaries on my favorite movies.

In the latest unveiling of concept art for Overwatch 2’s character, Juno, we find a significantly altered depiction of the Martian support hero compared to the one players currently experience. The early images of Overwatch 2 suggest that Juno underwent numerous modifications in her hair style, weapon, suit design, and color scheme before reaching her current form.

In the realm of Overwatch 2, I’m thrilled to share that I, Juno, have joined the ranks as the latest addition, also marking my role as the first support character and second overall hero introduced in 2024. My introduction came at BlizzCon 2023 under the codename “Space Ranger.” I’m a beacon of hope, being the optimistic daughter of Mei’s old friend Jiayi, and a unique character as the first natural-born Martian in our storyline. On the battlefield, I utilize advanced anti-grav technology to swiftly maneuver around, serving as a healer for my team.

In contrast to what Juno fans initially expected, the version of Juno they see in Overwatch 2 has undergone significant changes from its early concepts. Recently, Overwatch 2 concept artist Daryl Tan and lead narrative designer Miranda Moyer revealed sketches of Juno’s early designs along with some behind-the-scenes information. Although her Pulsar Torpedoes, helmet, and gravity boots remained in some form, other aspects of her design experienced substantial transformations before arriving at the final version.

Concept Art for ‘Space Ranger’ Juno in Overwatch 2

In the development process, Juno’s drones, which launch Pulsar Torpedoes, underwent numerous changes, some even featuring retractable arms for connection. Similarly, her helmet and suit design varied significantly, and potential hairstyles and facial expressions exuded intense, confident, and composed auras – quite distinct from the game hero’s heroic yet anxious demeanor. Most strikingly, Juno’s Mediblaster in Overwatch 2 has seen many transformations, ranging from a long gun to an arm-mounted “star shard cannon” reminiscent of Metroid’s design.

It’s clear as day that fans adored peeking behind the curtain at Juno from Overwatch 2, as an overwhelming amount of fan art showcases her character’s popularity among players. Glimpsing into the creative process surrounding her only served to strengthen their affinity for her. However, there are some fans who favor certain discarded concept designs for Juno over those that ultimately made it into the game, and they were disheartened to discover these ideas left unused in the editing room.

Regardless, Juno won’t remain the most recent addition to Overwatch 2 for too long. The last of the three heroes set to join Overwatch 2 in 2024 is anticipated to debut during Season 14, tentatively scheduled for mid-to-late December. As of now, details about this upcoming character are scant, but fans have already started guessing who this enigmatic figure might be.

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2024-09-21 01:06