Content warning: this article and links make references to the workplace misconduct lawsuit that Activision Blizzard is currently facing. Content may include references to sexual harassment and verbal abuse.
When recent reports revealed that Overwatch hero McCree was named after a developer at Blizzard, casters have started calling him “The Cowboy”.
McCree is one of Overwatch’s most popular heroes, known for his deadly and heavy-hitting Peacekeeper. Yet in light of the Activision Blizzard lawsuit, players discovered that this fan-favourite was named after Blizzard developer Jesse McCree.
McCree, the developer that is, was allegedly involved in workplace misconduct. The former Blizzard dev was also apparently linked to the now-infamous “Cosby Suite”. McCree has since left Blizzard, but the charges have left a stain on one of Overwatch’s original heroes.
However, as fans call for a change in the name, Overwatch League casters have taken it upon themselves to completely avoid the name.
The Cowboy Is Here
Originally reported by Kotaku, many fans noticed Josh “Sideshow” Wilkinson and Brennon “Bren” Hook were avoiding addressing McCree by his name. Instead, the commentators stuck with “The Cowboy.” Other casters such as Mitch “Uber” Leslie began to use the new name themselves, as the trend began to pick up traction.
Sadly, Blizzard have made no official change to the hero’s name at this point. However, many fans are lobbying for the developer to rename the hero. Since the name is tarnishing the reputation of the character, I imagine Blizzard will make a change soon enough.
Other references to accused Blizzard devs found in World of Warcraft led to the removal of some NPCs. However, considering the lore and balancing within Overwatch, removing McCree isn’t an easy option.
Twitch streamer Asmongold has claimed that a name change for McCree would be “stupid”. He stated: “you’re retconning things in order to look like this is not what happened.”
However, as fans grow tired of Blizzard’s continued silence on the matter, the majority seem to want a name change. Hopefully, Blizzard will address the name issue in some regard soon. And despite being vague, “The Cowboy” does have a nice mythical ring to it.
What do you think McCree’s new name should be? Let us know over on our social channels!
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Featured Image Credit: Blizzard