Overwatch Reveals China-Only Defiled Anthem Skins Ahead of Season 5
Blizzard and NetEase unveiled the China-exclusive Defiled Anthem line for Shion, Kiriko, D.Mon, Reaper and Emre, with Season 5 arriving October 6.
Blizzard and NetEase have revealed Defiled Anthem, a new line of China-only Overwatch cosmetics, for Shion, Kiriko, D.Mon, Reaper and Emre. The announcement comes ahead of Overwatch Season 5, which begins on October 6 with the addition of new hero Doctrine.
Shion's Defiled Anthem skin is an Evolution-rarity cosmetic exclusive to China that changes appearance during a match, according to Kotaku.
The Defiled Anthem line follows a run of region-exclusive Overwatch cosmetics released through the NetEase publishing agreement. Earlier this year, a Widowmaker Evolution-rarity skin started the trend of China-exclusive shapeshifting skins, and in August Jetpack Cat received a China-exclusive Evolution skin that changed her fur and costume color.
In 2022, Blizzard's publishing separation from NetEase in China took place, after which Blizzard struck a new deal with NetEase to publish Overwatch in the territory. In May, Walter Kong, head of development for Blizzard's live games and mobile division, said Blizzard will continue letting NetEase offer region-exclusive events as part of their agreement.
Separately, Overwatch's story-driven reboot, which began earlier this year, remains ongoing.
Quick answers
When does Overwatch Season 5 start?
Overwatch Season 5 begins on October 6 and adds the new hero Doctrine.
Which heroes are getting Defiled Anthem skins?
The China-only Defiled Anthem line covers Shion, Kiriko, D.Mon, Reaper and Emre.
What makes Shion's Defiled Anthem skin different?
It is an Evolution-rarity cosmetic exclusive to China that changes appearance during a match.