Overwatch 2 Unveils Wuyang: The Water-Wielding Support Hero with Avatar Vibes

The world of Overwatch 2 is about to welcome its newest hero: Wuyang, a support character whose water-based abilities instantly bring to mind the legendary waterbenders from Avatar: The Last Airbender. Previously known by the codename “Aqua,” Wuyang’s arrival has been long anticipated, and now we’re finally getting a deeper look into his story ahead of his gameplay reveal.

From Student to Hero

Wuyang hails from Wuxing University, an academy divided into five elemental colleges: Fire, Water, Metal, Earth, and Wood. Each specializes in unique disciplines, with Water College focusing on medical expertise, perfectly aligning with Wuyang’s role as a support hero.

However, Wuyang’s journey wasn’t straightforward. His parents and sister all attended Fire College, known for its martial arts mastery. Determined to uphold the family’s legacy, Wuyang initially struggled with feelings of inadequacy. Everything changed when he found a way to turn his healing talents into a weapon on the battlefield. In a pivotal moment, he used his water powers to save his fire-wielding sister during a battle against synthetic omnics, a victory that finally earned him his family’s respect.

Inspired by Real-Life Struggles

Blizzard’s Senior Narrative Designer, Joshi Zhang, revealed that Wuyang’s backstory draws inspiration from his own life. Growing up as a Chinese-Canadian in his sister’s shadow, Zhang says he wanted to reflect those complex emotions in Wuyang’s character.

“Complex emotions arise when we wish to give back to those who raised us,” Zhang wrote on social media. “These feelings will not be unfamiliar to many Chinese people – especially those who haven’t yet discovered their own strengths. To the Chinese community, and anyone who resonates with this struggle, I hope Wuyang’s story helps you accept your journey and your life as it unfolds. Meandering off the set path without knowing how to get where you want to go is just part of the process. Work hard, go with the flow, and have hope. Eventually, you will find your place as the hero of your own story, just as Wuyang did.”

When You Can Play Wuyang

Wuyang will make his official debut in Overwatch 2 Season 18, launching on August 26. However, eager players won’t have to wait that long: Blizzard is offering a limited-time trial this weekend so fans can get a first taste of his unique playstyle.

The first in-game footage of Wuyang will drop this Wednesday at 12 PM Eastern, giving us a full preview of his waterbending-inspired abilities in action.