Overwatch 2 is ready to welcome an exciting new support hero, Lifeweaver, on April 11. This addition to the game will offer players fresh options for assisting their team and introduce an intriguing new thread to the Overwatch storyline. For a limited time after its release, players can play as Lifeweaver for free.
Lifeweaver, also known as Niran ‘Bua’ PruksaManee, is a Thai scientist who expertly merges nature and technology to provide innovative ways to heal, move, and deal damage for himself and his teammates. The character has a compelling backstory, which can be explored in the recently released Origin Trailer exclusive to Xbox.
Raised in the rich, sheltered environment of Chiang Mai, Lifeweaver developed a deep appreciation for nature. As he ventured beyond his home, he witnessed the destruction caused by environmental neglect. This inspired him to create bio-light, a technology that fuses living plants with hard light, similar to that wielded by heroes like Symmetra. Determined to use his invention solely for good, Lifeweaver rejected his parents’ and the Vishkar corporation’s plans to use his technology for their purposes.
Gavin Jurgens-Fyhrie, Lead Narrative Designer for Overwatch 2, discussed developing Lifeweaver’s story collaboratively. The character was initially designed based on gameplay ideas and evolved into a unique hero who utilizes bio-light technology. Lifeweaver’s story provides more insight into Symmetra, as both characters have strong connections to the Vishkar corporation.
Although Lifeweaver is not officially part of the Overwatch team at the time of his introduction, he has had connections with them while living as a fugitive. The character is “loosely tied” to the team, similar to Torbjörn, according to Jurgens-Fyhrie. Whether Lifeweaver’s story will be incorporated into the upcoming PvE story mode remains to be seen.
To celebrate Lifeweaver’s addition to the roster, an in-game event from April 11 to April 24 will coincide with the Thai New Year. The event includes a new arcade mode called B.O.B. and Weave, where players can only play as Lifeweaver. By participating in the event, players can earn the Cassia skin for Lifeweaver, inspired by Thailand’s national flower, the Ratchaphruek.
