The futuristic universe of Mobile Suit Gundam Wing comes to life on the battlefield of Overwatch 2. To celebrate the Japanese series' 30th anniversary, Blizzard Entertainment and Bandai Namco announced the "Operation Meteor" event, featuring skins inspired by the legendary Mobile Suits from the animated series for four of the game's heroes. The collaboration, already available, will run until May 12th.
The action marks the meeting of two important franchises from Japanese pop culture and gaming. Mercy, Reaper, Ramattra, and Soldado: 76 were chosen to represent the anime's most iconic combat robots. The art team created each skin with rich detail, preserving the original armor designs, and adapting the costumes to the style of the Overwatch 2 universe.
Overwatch Characters Get Epic Gundam Skins
Mercy's look was inspired by the Wing Gundam Zero, which shines in shades of white and metallic blue. Reaper takes on the dark role of Deathscythe Hell, with features reminiscent of scythes and shadows. Ramattra dons the armor of the ferocious Epyon, a symbol of hand-to-hand combat, while Soldier: 76 adopts the imposing Tallgeese, marked by his brute strength and speed.
All skins are part of the collaboration's legendary collection and are available for purchase in each platform's online stores. Individual packs include cosmetic items such as sprays, victory poses, and charms. Additionally, there's a complete bundle, the "Overwatch 2 x Gundam Wing Massive Bundle," which brings together all four legendary skins and offers exclusive bonuses.
The event also includes free rewards. Players who complete daily or weekly challenges can unlock the "Gundamari" weapon pendant, a fun and stylized miniature mobile suit. Progression within the event is automatic and grants access to new content at no additional cost.
Anniversary revives Gundam Wing's legacy and strengthens connection with the West
Gundam Wing debuted in Japan in 1995 and has since quickly won fans around the world with its political narrative, battles between mechas (giant manned robots), and young characters driven by ideals of freedom. The series pioneered the Gundam franchise in North America and thus became a benchmark in the genre.
With the arrival of Overwatch 2 in the universe, the anime gains new visibility, especially among gamers. Blizzard, in turn, is banking on the series' nostalgic power to engage old fans and introduce this universe to new players. Furthermore, the fusion of styles reinforces the game's role as a platform for cultural and visual expression.
The event also celebrates the collective spirit of both worlds. In the anime, teenage pilots face authoritarian governments in the name of justice. In Overwatch 2, teams of scientists, cyborgs, and soldiers fight for a safer, more cooperative world. Ultimately, the message of resistance and hope remains central to both narratives.
Visual adaptation respects the aesthetics of both franchises
Blizzard's art team worked closely with Bandai Namco's creators to integrate the Mobile Suits into Overwatch 2's visual style without losing the original characters' identity. The result was a line of skins that balance aesthetic fidelity with in-game functionality.
The models were developed based on the details of each armor from the anime, from the metallic sheen of the suits to the silhouette of the helmets. Additionally, the visual and sound effects were adjusted to provide an immersive gameplay experience.
While they don't alter the heroes' abilities, the visuals transform the way the player interacts with the game. For Gundam fans, dressing a hero in their favorite Mobile Suit is a natural extension of their passion for the series. For those who have never seen the anime, the collaboration serves as a gateway into this classic universe.
Collaboration highlights Overwatch 2 as a space for geek celebration
Since its release, Overwatch 2 has expanded its reach by incorporating elements from other media. With 43 playable heroes and maps set in real-world locations, the game stands out for its dynamic gameplay and engaging visual design.
The partnership with Gundam Wing isn't an isolated one. Other collaborations have already demonstrated Blizzard's interest in making the game a vibrant space for geek culture. Thus, by bringing famous anime characters to the battlefield, the developer reinforces its commitment to keeping the game fresh, relevant, and connected to what drives its players.
Overwatch 2 is available for free on PC (via Battle.net), Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch. The "Operation Meteor" event runs until May 12. For those looking to combine strategy with style, this is an unmissable opportunity.
