Overwatch 2 Unveils Freja’s Backstory

The latest Overwatch 2 hero cinematic for Freja has ignited excitement by teasing the long-awaited return of Emre Sarioglu, an Overwatch operative first hinted at nearly a decade ago. In the animated short, the bounty hunter finds herself entangled in dangerous dealings with Maximilien, culminating in a shocking reveal of a familiar face.

Freja’s Origins and Role in Overwatch 2

Introduced during the Spotlight event, Freja is the new damage hero arriving in Overwatch 2 Season 16. Internally codenamed “Winddasher” due to her high mobility, she was once a search and rescue operative for Overwatch. However, after the organization disbanded, she took a darker path—becoming a bounty hunter.

Her latest mission leads her to a tense exchange with Maximilien, the infamous Talon accountant, in The Hunt Begins cinematic. After a confrontation where she skillfully eliminates his bodyguards, Maximilien ultimately pays for her captured bounties but offers her an even bigger job.

While the target remains unnamed, the datapad reveals an image of Emre Sarioglu, a Turkish Overwatch operative who joined after the Omnic Crisis. Whether Freja intends to capture or protect him remains unclear, but her involvement has rekindled speculation about Emre’s long-awaited debut as a playable hero.

Who is Emre Sarioglu?

Emre first appeared in Overwatch lore in Ana’s origin story (2016) but was only fully explored in Overwatch: Declassified (2023). The combat medic played a crucial role in key historical moments:

• Rescuing Torbjörn when he lost his arm in battle.
• Aiding Mercy and Sojourn in a radiation crisis in Australia.
• Overseeing Genji’s transfer into Overwatch custody.

Fans have speculated about Emre’s potential as a hero for years—well before Brigitte joined the roster. His sudden reappearance in Freja’s cinematic has reignited theories that he could finally be playable in an upcoming season.

When Can Players Try Freja?

Players won’t have to wait until Season 16 to experience Freja in action:

• March 20 – Freja motion comic release.
• March 21-23 – Freja trial period in Overwatch 2.
• April 22 – Official hero launch in Season 16.

Additionally, a gameplay trailer will drop alongside her playtest period, offering a deeper look at her abilities. With Emre’s presence looming in the background, Overwatch 2 players have even more reasons to keep an eye on what’s coming next.