Why Did Cassidy Change His Name in Overwatch Lore?
Cassidy’s name change within the Overwatch universe reflects both an in-game narrative shift and real-world events at Activision Blizzard. Lore-wise, Cole Cassidy’s name change symbolizes his character development and attempt to distance himself from a troubled past associated with the name Jesse McCree. It represents his choice to embrace honesty and authenticity, a pivotal moment where he confronts his former identity to forge a better future. The change acknowledges the importance of personal growth and the burden of past actions. The in-game justification mirrors the real-world decision driven by the need to sever ties with a problematic individual and align the game with a more inclusive and respectful environment.
The Real-World Catalyst: Activision Blizzard’s Lawsuit
The primary impetus behind the name change stems from the Activision Blizzard lawsuit alleging widespread sexual harassment and a toxic “frat boy” culture. Jesse McCree, the character’s original namesake, was a Blizzard developer implicated in some of these allegations. To disassociate the beloved hero from the problematic individual and signal a commitment to positive change, the Overwatch team decided to rename him. This move reflects a broader effort to remove references to problematic figures and themes within Blizzard’s games.
Narrative Implications: A Cowboy’s Redemption
Within the Overwatch story, the name change has rich narrative implications. Blizzard used the opportunity to develop Cassidy’s character further. The official announcement acknowledged the change as part of the character’s journey, depicting him as someone “running from his past.” He ultimately chooses to “be honest with his team and himself” about who he really is. This narrative thread suggests that Cassidy’s past actions weighed heavily on him. By adopting a new name, he actively embraces the responsibility and seeks redemption by aligning his actions with his newfound identity.
Cassidy’s Origin Story: From Outlaw to Overwatch
The Deadlock Gang
Cassidy’s history is rooted in the criminal underworld. He was a founding member of the infamous Deadlock Gang, known for their heists and outlaw lifestyle in the American Southwest. This period shaped his skillset and instilled a certain ruthlessness, traits he would later carry into his role as a vigilante.
Blackwatch Recruitment
His criminal career was abruptly interrupted when he was apprehended by Overwatch. Instead of imprisonment, he was offered a chance to work for Blackwatch, Overwatch’s covert operations division. This provided him with a unique opportunity to utilize his skills for a cause greater than personal gain.
Seeking Redemption
Cassidy believed that joining Blackwatch allowed him to atone for his past misdeeds. He saw it as a way to “right the world’s injustices” and make amends for the harm he had caused as part of the Deadlock Gang. This desire for redemption became a central part of his character arc.
A Member of Overwatch
After the dismantling of Blackwatch and the fall of Overwatch, Cassidy operated as a vigilante. When Winston initiated the Overwatch recall, Cassidy answered the call, rejoining the team to fight for a better future. His decision to rejoin reflects his continued commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
The Meaning of the Name “Cassidy”
The name Cassidy itself holds significance. Originating from Irish roots, it translates to “clever” or “curly-headed”. While seemingly unrelated to the character’s backstory, Blizzard’s choice of this name could be interpreted as a subtle nod to his evolving nature. It can be seen as the cleverness required to navigate his complex moral landscape.
The Impact on Fans
The name change sparked a variety of reactions among fans. While many supported the decision, others expressed nostalgia for the original name or questioned the necessity of altering a fictional character’s identity. The discussion highlighted the complexities of addressing real-world issues within a fictional context. It also showed the strong emotional connection that fans had with the characters and the Overwatch universe.
FAQs About Cassidy and His Name Change
What was Cassidy’s original name?
Cassidy was originally known as Jesse McCree in Overwatch.
Why was Jesse McCree named after a Blizzard developer?
The character was initially named after Jesse McCree, a lead game designer at Blizzard Entertainment.
What did Cassidy change in Overwatch gameplay-wise?
One significant gameplay change was the nerf to his Magnetic Grenade in Overwatch 2. The base damage was reduced from 120 to 70, shifting the ability’s focus away from pure damage.
Is Cassidy based on a real person?
While his original name was inspired by a Blizzard developer, his character’s archetype, a gunslinging cowboy, draws inspiration from figures like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid from Western films.
Is “Cassidy” a gender-neutral name?
Yes, Cassidy is considered a gender-neutral name with Irish origins.
What is Cassidy’s nationality?
Cassidy is portrayed as an American character in Overwatch.
What is Cassidy’s age?
In the “Recall” animated short, he is shown to be 38 years old.
What are some of Cassidy’s relationships in Overwatch lore?
He has connections with characters like Ashe, with whom he has a complicated past, and Hanzo, with whom he is popular ship among fans.
Did Ashe and Cassidy date?
While they have a history together, it was never officially confirmed that they were in a romantic relationship.
Why does Cassidy wear sunglasses?
Cassidy wears sunglasses as part of his appearance. It enhances his mysterious and outlaw persona.
What is the name for Cassidy/McCree and Ashe as a ship?
The ship name for Cassidy and Ashe is McAshe.
What is Cassidy’s full name now?
His full name is Cole Cassidy.
What is Cassidy’s role in Overwatch?
He is a damage hero, specializing in mid-range combat with his Peacekeeper revolver.
What is the significance of the name “Cole”?
The name “Cole” typically is associated with the meaning “victory of the people.”
Where can I learn more about the impact of video games and storytelling on learning?
For more on this topic, check out the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ for research and resources on game-based learning.
Moving Forward: A Lesson in Accountability
The story of Cassidy’s name change serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and ethical considerations within the gaming industry. It highlights the responsibility that developers have to create inclusive and respectful environments, both within their workplaces and within their games. By addressing the controversy head-on and using it as an opportunity for character development, Blizzard demonstrates a commitment to learning from the past and building a better future for the Overwatch community. It serves as a lesson in corporate responsibility, emphasizing the necessity of aligning actions with values. It showcases that characters, and the games they inhabit, can evolve to reflect a commitment to social responsibility and a sensitivity to real-world issues.