During Gamescom 2016, Blizzard revealed the upcoming "Overwatch" map, called Eichenwalde. "Overwatch" players particularly noticed a special Easter egg that reminded them of the "Dark Souls" series.
The "Overwatch" teaser of Eichenwalde, which lasted over five minutes, featured a medieval castle that seemed to have been abandoned. There were plenty of interesting elements inside the dark hall, such as crests, flags andbeer kegs and barrels. Particular attention was given to the virtual map on the table, as well as a newspaper, although these were in German.
Bleeding Cool reported that the "Overwatch" character ventured through the different sections of the area, moving through rooms, dining halls, a basement, balconies and the adjacent medieval village, which was also abandoned. At the 4:15 mark, the player came across a sleeping warrior at the front and center of a great hall. The "Overwatch" player continued moving through the premises until it reached a room opposite to the entrance, adjacent to the right where a sword pierces vertically into a flaming mound.
The sword, fire and mound near the end of the video are references to the iconic checkpoints in the "Dark Souls" series. It is still uncertain how the bonfire will function in "Overwatch," but it was essential to players in "Dark Souls," since they can replenish and recover before going off into battle again. "Overwatch" players speculated that the fiery mound may also provide quick restoration for characters who reach it. Others commented that it may merely be an Easter egg for aesthetic purposes, since there is also a health pack in the same room.
Eurogamer stated that the Eichenwalde "Overwatch" map and additional skinsare currently available on the Public Test Realm (PTR) for players to try. The PTR can be accessed by choosing "PTR: Overwatch" from the "Region/Account" dropdown box just above the huge "Play" button on the Battle.net launcher. The PTR has to be downloaded first. "Overwatch" fans will find it helpful to explore the environment before the official version releases, to be familiar with the routes and vantage points. More updates and details on "Overwatch" are expected soon.
