Overwatch 2 Teases Return of an Iconic Map

27.03.2024 - 20:03 / gamerant.com / Eric Law

During the gameplay trailer for Venture, Overwatch 2 teased a new map that seemingly revisits the Temple of Anubis in a brand-new way. This could indicate Overwatch 2 is planning to add a new version of this iconic battlefield – potentially as early as Season 10.

The Temple of Anubis was an iconic Assault map from the original Overwatch. Originally just called Cairo, this map was actually the first one Blizzard designed while creating the FPS. Unfortunately, with the removal of the Assault maps from the Overwatch 2 lineup, players can only visit the original version of this map in Custom games now.

However, Overwatch 2 recently hinted that fans may be revisiting the Temple of Anubis in the future. At the end of the recently-shared gameplay trailer for Venture, the delving hero emerges from the ground in front of the God Program Anubis in an underground facility. This AI terminal, responsible for the Omnic Crisis in Overwatch lore, was located deep beneath the eponymous temple, but it was not seen in the original Temple of Anubis map. This seems to indicate Overwatch 2 is making a new map that explores previously-unseen regions of the Temple.

There are a lot of places where this new Temple of Anubis-inspired map could appear. It could be added as one of Overwatch 2’s new Clash game mode alongside Hanaoka, which is itself a remix of the Hanamura map. Alternatively, it could be a new location for Flashpoint, the new game mode added in Season 6 that currently only has two maps. Regardless, Overwatch 2 fans are excited to see where this teased location appears, even if it isn't added in Season 10 at all.

This teaser could also be a clue as to the theme of the Season 10 Battle Pass. During BlizzCon 2023, Overwatch 2 revealed an Egyptian-themed season would be coming some time this year. Given Venture’s profession as an archaeologist, and the teaser for this new map, it is possible Overwatch 2 Season 10 will be Egyptian themed, though players will find out for sure within the next couple of weeks.

The teaser trailer also revealed the abilities of Venture, Overwatch 2’s 40th hero. The first DPS character since the launch of Overwatch 2, Venture has a highly-mobile kit that allows them to dig underground, dash through the air, and engage enemies at close to mid-range. Overwatch 2 players will have the opportunity to try Venture early from March 28 through March 31, so fans should be sure to dig into the new hero before the official launch of Season 10 on April 16.

Overwatch 2 is Blizzard's free-to-play team-based first-person shooter. The title features some new heroes like Junker Queen and Sojourn, as well as returning favorites.