Meet Hazard: The New Overwatch 2 Tank Everyone’s Talking About!

Overwatch 2 fans, the moment you’ve all been waiting for is here! Introducing Hazard, the game’s 13th tank hero and 42nd overall, who will be hitting the battlefield for playtesting from November 22 to November 25. But what really amps up the hype surrounding Hazard? It’s the incredible voice talent and story crafting behind him. We sat down with Conor McLeod, the voice of Hazard, and Jude Stacey, the senior narrative designer, to explore the intricacies of bringing this character to life.

In this exclusive interview, we dive deep into Hazard’s personality, his dynamics with the Phreaks (his found family), and what it really means to be a part of this vibrant universe. Get ready to know why Hazard isn’t just another tank hero, but a character layered with emotions and connections!

Bringing Hazard to Life: The Voice of Conor McLeod

Conor McLeod’s journey into the world of voice acting began at the prestigious Guildhall, where he drew inspiration from the remarkable Jane Perry. Known for her impressive work in voice acting, Perry ignited McLeod’s passion for this craft during their training sessions.

“When I was at Guildhall, I quickly realized I wanted to do voice work too,” McLeod shared. His dedication led him to pursue an agency, tapping into the thriving industry of video game voiceovers, particularly after the pandemic forced many into diversifying their skillsets.

First Impressions of Hazard’s Design

During the audition process, much of Hazard’s visual design was kept under wraps. This secrecy actually liberates voice actors, allowing them to focus solely on the character’s essence. When McLeod finally saw Hazard’s final design, he was blown away by the extravagant features like the imposing cannon arm and the fierce spikes protruding from his back.

“If I told eight-year-old me, ‘You’re voicing a hero in Overwatch,’ that kid would be over the moon!” McLeod exclaimed, envisioning his newfound status as the cool uncle once his niece discovers Overwatch.

Hazard’s Found Family: The Phreaks

Jude Stacey illuminated the bond between Hazard and the Phreaks, emphasizing their significance as more than just a crew — they’re Hazard’s found family. According to Stacey, these characters drive home the message of support, camaraderie, and personal growth.

“It was important to weave in those quieter moments within his group to showcase their depth and connection, especially his relationship with his partner, Suzy,” Stacey noted, highlighting their dynamic in the upcoming trailer.

Character Interactions: A Complex Web

As for Hazard’s relationships, they’re anything but straightforward. His interactions range from warmth towards characters like Ashe and Kiriko to hostility against figures such as Sojourn. This complexity is essential to shaping Hazard’s character arc, showing how past experiences mold relationships.

Recording the character’s dialogue allowed McLeod to channel real emotions and scenarios. He explained that, thanks to Stacey’s guidance, he could navigate Hazard’s nuanced feelings towards different characters, ensuring an authentic performance.

Signature Voice Lines and Cultural Roots

McLeod’s favorite voice lines reflect Hazard’s Scottish identity, peppered with authentic phrases that resonate with his heritage. He’s particularly keen on seeing how these lines land with fans, hoping they spark curiosity about their meanings.

Stacey also chimed in, sharing her enthusiasm for the banter in Hazard’s lines, like the cheeky “Come and get it, lavvy heids!” showcasing the fun nature of the character while expressing Hazard’s loyalty to his family and friends.

The Representation Matters

Stacey proudly declared, “We needed a Scottish actor, that’s for sure!” The representation of Hazard’s Scottish identity was integral in his development, with research conducted to make sure every phrase and accent captured the essence of Scottish culture. This thoughtful development showcases Blizzard’s commitment to creating authentic characters that resonate with players worldwide.

Reception and Future Hopes

The reception of Hazard has been overwhelmingly positive, much to the delight of both McLeod and Stacey. They reflected on how gratifying it is to witness the love and appreciation from fans, sparked by the character’s compelling design and engaging backstory. “It’s surreal to see Hazard resonate with fans so quickly, inspiring fanart and discussions,” Stacey revealed, highlighting the community’s synergy.

Conclusion: A Hero for All

As Hazard prepares to join the ranks of Overwatch 2, it’s clear that this tank hero brings more than just brute force to the game. He embodies themes of family, acceptance, and personal growth that resonate deeply within the Overwatch universe. With intricate designs, rich backstory, and stellar voice acting from Conor McLeod, it’s no wonder that Hazard is the hottest topic in the gaming community right now. Be sure to keep an eye out for his debut this November, as it promises to be an unforgettable experience for all players!

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