Overwatch is filled with interesting characters, some of which have complex backstories that intertwine with each other. Cassidy and Reaper are two such Overwatch characters, with the pair coming together as friends and splitting apart shortly after.
As for why these two characters are being focused on in recent fan art, the reasoning is likely a combination of their overall popularity and the new pieces of lore starring the heroes. Cassidy’s recent comic series called New Blood explored his name change and his attempts to build a new group of heroes. As for Reaper, his Code of Violence short story dropped a few days ago, providing some much-needed lore on the mysterious Damage hero and Talon member. With both characters recently being thrust into the spotlight, it only makes sense to celebrate some outstanding art that highlights their journeys.
While the new Overwatch comics and short story provide additional lore on Cassidy and Reaper, fans already knew a fair bit about the two characters - including details on their fractured friendship. As such, it was a perfect topic for artist Elapuse to focus on. Their piece was recently shared to Reddit by Loveylyy, and with nearly 10,000 upvotes alongside dozens of positive comments, it is safe to say that the Overwatch fan base appreciated their work.
The beautiful and unique art piece sees two different paths being highlighted, with one following Cassidy and the other focusing on Reaper. Initially, the two are seen together, with Reaper (then Gabriel Reyes) looking down at a young Cassidy. He then talks to Soldier 76 and Ana, recruiting the misguided criminal into Blackwatch, his dark ops-focused unit of soldiers. A cheerful image then sees him messing with Cassidy’s hat and tossing him some armor. However, while Cassidy is seen forming bonds with Ana and Reinhardt after this upbeat interaction, Reyes is seen arguing with Soldier 76 about the controversial Blackwatch.
The art then sees Reyes walking away and slowly becoming Reaper, a nice way to visualize his transformation. Cassidy, clearly let down by Overwatch and Blackwatch falling apart, goes off to get drunk - with a nice touch seeing him interact with Sombra. The bottom center of the art then sees Reaper aiming one of his Hellfire shotguns at Cassidy, with the cowboy holding up his Peacekeeper revolver at his former mentor. Aside from being beautifully illustrated, with clever details like Cassidy’s poncho serving as the path that connects the many parts of his journey, Elapuse’s artwork highlights how sad this part of Overwatch’s story is.
It will be interesting to see if Reaper and Cassidy interact in Overwatch 2’s PvE campaign. A proper conversation between the two would surely be memorable, but until then, fans of the two characters have great artwork like this to appreciate.
Overwatch is available now on PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One.
Source: Elapuse/Tumblr
