Overwatch players criticize repetitive character faces while praising Marvel Rivals for diverse female designs

The Overwatch community has erupted with criticism directed at Blizzard's art style. The controversy centers around what fans call "same face syndrome" affecting female characters. Social media users point out that facial features of heroines, including recently revealed An Zhan, are nearly identical to models used for Kiriko and Juno, stripping them of individuality and visual depth.

The criticism intensified through comparisons with direct competitors. Players cite Valve's Deadlock and Marvel Rivals as examples, emphasizing that these projects feature female characters with more distinctive and unique facial features. Fans are calling on Blizzard developers to reconsider their art direction approach and stop using the same safe face template for all new heroines.

On the other hand, a closer look at Deadlock heroines reveals they too share similar base features with different variations. There's nothing surprising about this – artists always have their signature style.

The sole bright spot amid general dissatisfaction has been Domina – a new tank scheduled for release on February 10, 2026. This commanding woman, serving as vice president of Vishkar Corporation, instantly became a fan favorite. Her stern design, complemented by massive mechanical arms, prominent bust, and imperious gaze, became a long-awaited example of how a female character can look both unique and imposing.

Or perhaps players simply appreciate attractive powerful women.

One user also redesigned all new heroes with striking and unique results, though it's unlikely Blizzard will adopt this approach.

Despite visual complaints, the community acknowledges that competition from new titles has pushed Blizzard to deliver genuinely quality content. Players hope Domina's success signals to the studio that audiences value diversity and distinctive designs over standardized attractiveness. The February update will reveal whether the revamped Overwatch can maintain its leadership in the hero shooter genre.

Overwatch 2 is available free-to-play on PC and consoles.