Overwatch 2 honors Jeff Kaplan with heartfelt NYC map easter eggs and references
Introduction to Kaplan’s Legacy
Overwatch 2’s development team has created a moving tribute to former Game Director Jeff Kaplan through clever environmental storytelling on the game’s new New York City map.
The sequel’s NYC map contains multiple hidden references that celebrate Kaplan’s tenure and connection with the Overwatch community.
When Kaplan departed Blizzard Entertainment in April 2021 after 19 years with the company, including 8 years leading the Overwatch team, players expressed concern about the franchise’s future direction without his creative vision.
Detailed Breakdown of Easter Eggs
During a May 2021 gameplay showcase, developers revealed several New York City map elements that pay homage to Kaplan’s legacy, demonstrating how his influence continues to shape Overwatch 2.
Jeph’s Corner Pizza
A standout feature is ‘Jeph’s Corner Pizza,’ a restaurant named with the same intentional misspelling that became a community in-joke after a 2017 Starbucks mishap at Blizzard’s campus.
Coffee Cup Reference
Players can spot a coffee cup labeled ‘Jeph’ placed atop a copy of ‘The Green Hills of Stranglethorn’ – a clever double reference to Kaplan’s World of Warcraft writing credits and the famous misspelling incident.
“Jeph” pic.twitter.com/NhxPjybVsj
— Dexerto (@Dexerto) May 20, 2021
Community Response and Significance
The Overwatch community has embraced these easter eggs as a fitting tribute to Kaplan’s tenure, with many players sharing screenshots and analysis of the references on social media platforms.
For dedicated fans, these details serve multiple purposes – they honor Kaplan’s contributions while also maintaining continuity with Overwatch’s tradition of detailed world-building and hidden references that reward observant players.
Starbucks opened on campus today. This made my morning. pic.twitter.com/lDDiVpaGBm
— Jeremy Craig (@Jaerock83) May 12, 2017
Kaplan’s Lasting Impact on Overwatch
Jeff Kaplan’s influence on Overwatch extends far beyond these easter eggs. As the original game’s director since its 2016 launch, he shaped everything from character design philosophies to community engagement strategies.
The thoughtful nature of these NYC map references demonstrates how the current development team values Kaplan’s legacy while establishing their own vision for Overwatch 2. For players, they serve as comforting reminders that the franchise’s core spirit remains intact.
These tributes represent more than just inside jokes – they’re a bridge between Overwatch’s past and future, ensuring Kaplan’s contributions remain part of the game’s DNA even as it evolves.
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