Gundam Evolution looks like it will be a strong contender for fans of competitive shooters and esports. The game’s fast and objective-based gameplay keeps the momentum going throughout matches and offers an array of famous Gundam mechs for players to choose from. All of this has been shown off with Gundam Evolution still in development, but the hype generated around the game has also come a decent amount of Overwatch comparisons.
Blizzard’s hero shooter has developed a sizeable fanbase the past few years, but the Gundam Evolution doesn’t need to be compared to it, largely because a lot of Overwatch fans are probably already Gundam fans to some degree. The Gundam franchise has been around for decades and it isn’t likely to go anywhere soon. With model kits, video games across generations of consoles, and numerous anime, it is one of the most notable mecha franchises to date.
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Of course, there are some visual similarities and Gundam Evolution does fall into the hero shooter genre, but that doesn’t mean that will be just like Overwatch. As Blizzard continues to move toward Overwatch 2, some players might favor the new Gundam title. The opportunity to compete against or with friends while piloting one of the legendary mechs could be too enticing to pass up.
The game's six-versus-six team format also allows for plenty of options Gundam players would like to utilize. This number of players is something that Overwatch 2 is moving away from. While long-established teams may feel apprehensive about booting out a member or rotating friends, Gundam Evolution would allow such groups to play together. This could be a major aspect of the game if it receives a full launch within the next year or so as teams search for new ways to be able to play together.
The game will also feature several games modes, including a point capture mode like Overwatch, but others fall outside what those fans are likely used to. The destruction game mode seems more in line with the primary bomb modes in Rainbow Six: Siege and Counter-Strike than any of the competitive modes in Overwatch currently. While domination on the other hand is more in line with the Control and Iron Banner modes seen in Destiny 2’s Crucible.
Just as these modes differ, the game’s playstyle looks unique when compared to Overwatch. Gundam Evolution features a lot more directional movement in its gameplay and across its maps. While some highlights from footage posted so far might remind players of Widowmaker replays with clean sniper shots, the overall traversal and pacing of Gundam Evolution looks different. Gundam can move on a more complete XYZ axis that isn’t as accessible to many characters in Overwatch.
These differences in gameplay also result in differences between map designs. Traversal and chokepoints will likely play out differently, and player awareness will require thinking in 360 degrees. Overwatch has done well with its style but the often-limited mobility options are probably one of the major points that set these two titles apart. Right now Pharah is the only hero that really has the ability to dominate airspace in a true sense, so while many of the comparisons may be well-intentioned they diminish these key differences.
But Gundam Evolution has some time before it receives a full release. As the game continues to develop it will hopefully shed these comparisons to Overwatch, and more people will see it as the unique title that it is. This time will also hopefully include some additions of other Gundam suits. There is a huge list to choose from, and as the series grows more should be added.
Gundam Evolution is currently in development.
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