Why was McCree named after Jesse McCree?

Why was McCree named after Jesse McCree?

In the world of Overwatch, McCree is a fan-favorite cowboy hero known for his quick draw and sharp shooting skills. But have you ever wondered why he was named after Jesse McCree? In this article, we’ll delve into the history behind the name and explore the significance of the Overwatch hero’s moniker.

Initial Development

According to sources, the Overwatch team was unaware of the game’s massive success during its initial development. This lack of foresight led to some unconventional naming choices, including the decision to name the cowboy hero after a real-life individual. Jesse McCree was a long-time developer at Blizzard, who was part of a group chat related to the infamous "Cosby Suite" at BlizzCon.

The Real Jesse McCree

The real Jesse McCree is a convicted felon, having been convicted of 13 separate charges, including four counts of Hobbs Act Robbery, four counts of Use and Carry of a Firearm in Relation to a Crime of Violence, and one count of Firearm by a Felon. This controversial background led to widespread criticism and outrage among the gaming community.

Naming Conventions

In a surprising move, Blizzard decided to name the Overwatch hero after the real Jesse McCree. This decision was met with both praise and criticism from fans and critics alike. Some saw it as a bold move, while others felt it was a poor choice, given the hero’s violent past.

The Name’s Significance

So, what does the name "McCree" mean in the context of Overwatch? According to Blizzard, the name is derived from the Irish surname and ultimately from the Goidelic given name Caiside, meaning "clever" or "curly-haired." Cassidy is a gender-neutral name, which may have contributed to the team’s decision to use it for the character.

The Hero’s Backstory

In-game, McCree’s backstory is shrouded in mystery. His past is marked by violence and bloodshed, which may have contributed to his nomadic lifestyle. His motivations for joining Overwatch are unclear, but it’s likely that he was drawn to the organization’s mission to protect the world from threats both human and supernatural.

The Name’s Impact

The decision to name the hero after Jesse McCree has had a significant impact on the gaming community. Some fans have praised the move, seeing it as a bold and unconventional choice. Others have criticized the decision, citing the hero’s violent past and the potential impact on the game’s overall tone.

The New Name

In recent news, Blizzard announced that the hero’s name would be changed to Cole Cassidy. This move was met with both praise and criticism, with some fans welcoming the change and others lamenting the loss of the original name.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the name "McCree" was chosen due to the real-life individual’s involvement in the game’s development. The name’s significance lies in its Irish roots and its gender-neutral nature. The hero’s backstory is shrouded in mystery, and his motivations for joining Overwatch are unclear. The decision to name the hero after Jesse McCree has had a significant impact on the gaming community, with both praise and criticism coming from fans and critics alike.