While the gameplay ofOverwatchis undoubtedly a big reason for its success, it is hard to argue that the game’s universe has player an equally large role in the hero shooter’s popularity. The game’s writers have built off itsbeloved cast of charactersto create a universe full of intricate lore and deep backstories. Further, several important factions have been formed and broken up, with a majority of the game’s hero lineup being affiliated with at least one group.
While someOverwatchfactions have much less of an impact on the overall storyline, there is no shortage of groups to keep track of. Fortunately, each organization has defining traits and standout members that make identifying a specific group far easier. With a mix of heroic, villainous, and neutral goals seen throughout them, getting an idea of eachOverwatchteam’s mindset could better prepare players for the sequel’s narrative.
Overwatch
Notable Members: Winston, Tracer, Mercy, Reinhardt
Considering that the game is named afterOverwatch, it seems fitting that they serve as the main organization in the story. A group of world-saving heroes that was eventually split up due to in-fighting, major failures, and legal issues, fans seeOverwatchre-formed inthe Zero Hour animated shortforOverwatch 2. Having the same goals of maintaining world peace, this altruistic group is filled with some of the most caring and positive heroes in the game.
Blackwatch
Notable Members: Reaper, McCree, Genji, Moira
A now-disbandedOverwatchfaction, this group was led by Gabriel Reyes — now known as the damage hero Reaper. A young version of McCree anda recently transformed Genjiare part of the roster, with the morally flawed scientist Moira rounding out the lineup. This squad of heroes led several dark, off-the-record operations, with the the group being shown as more violent and willing to kill when necessary. It was permanently broken up after the group violated a suspension placed by the Japanese government.
Talon
Notable Members: Doomfist, Reaper, Sombra, Widowmaker
The current villains of theOverwatchstory, Talon isled by Doomfist. Doomfist’s main goal is to create chaos, with his core belief being that conflict makes people stronger. Evolving the human race by force, the terrorist organization is a legitimate challenge forOverwatch. However, its main members have different motivations. Sombra is using Talon resources so she can solve her conspiracy, while Reaper is trying to check names off his kill list. Widowmaker, still brainwashed, does the group’s bidding without question.
Null Sector
Notable Members: N/A
The final major faction insideOverwatchis the Villainous Omnic group called Null Sector. Players fought against the group in the Uprising story mission from the originalOverwatchArchives event, getting a feel for the group’s various robotic enemies. Based on the little that is known about the faction, their goal is to create an Omnic nation. Led by a mysterious figure shown briefly on the Storm Rising cutscene, players should get a better understanding of the group viaOverwatch 2’s PvE campaign.
Smaller Factions
TheOverwatchuniverse is packed with smaller factions as well, with some of the standouts being seen below.
Whole there are other smallOverwatchfactions scattered throughout the story, and though others may appear in the sequel, these are the most important organizations for fans to be aware of at the moment.
Overwatchis available now on PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One.
