Blizzard is reworking one of Overwatch’s newest heroes after a heated debate over her appearance spilled across social media. Anran, a fire-based DPS introduced during a recent spotlight event, quickly became the center of controversy when fans compared her in-game model to earlier animated depictions. Many argued that her sharper features and stronger build had been softened into a slimmer, more conventional look.
The discussion gained momentum when Fareeha Andersen, the English voice actor behind Anran and a Twitch streamer known as AskFareeha, publicly addressed the backlash. Rather than dismiss the criticism, she acknowledged it. Within days, Overwatch Game Director Aaron Keller confirmed the team would revisit the character’s design, aiming to better align Anran’s visual identity with her personality and backstory.
AskFareeha calls for bolder design as devs promise changes
In a candid video, Andersen explained her hesitation before speaking out. “I didn’t want to not address the elephant in the room, but I didn’t want to step on the devs’ toes,” she said, describing it as a “tightrope” between supporting the community and giving developers grace.
She revealed that she felt personally disappointed by the final model. “I got to mourn Anran, between the design that I had hoped for for her, and the design we ended up with,” Andersen continued. She argued that earlier comics and cinematics suggested Overwatch would “challenge the beauty standards that are plaguing and ransacking media these days,” referencing what she called the “Ozempic chic” trend and ultra-slim, highly contoured facial aesthetics.
For Andersen, the concern was not cosmetic but thematic. “It’s not the bold, optimistic swing that we know Overwatch to make,” she said. “It’s a look that isn’t congruent with her personality.” She added that Anran now appears “more docile,” which she believes undercuts the image of a fierce, fire-wielding older sister.
The community response split sharply. Some players supported the redesign push, while others felt the criticism went too far. Keller later confirmed the team is discussing “what it will take to make Anran look and feel more like the fierce older sister” they envision. “We agree she will be even better if we get this aspect of her right in game,” he added.
Changes are expected in Season 1, though Blizzard noted hero models are complex and require careful testing. Andersen celebrated the update, posting, “I LOVE THIS GAME thank you devs for listening,” followed by, “Thank you Overwatch community for speaking up!”
