A new map for Overwatch has gone live exclusively for Windows PC users to try out on the game’s Public Test Region. The map is called Oasis, and it was first announced a few weeks ago at Blizzard’s video game convention, BlizzCon. Oasis is a Control map with a metropolitan setting, and yes it is still in line with Overwatch‘s other wildly colorful and aesthetically appealing maps. Unfortunately, Oasis is not the serene walk in the park that its name suggests.
This new location features a large influx of cars, riding down the roads at alarming speeds, against the backdrop of buildings. If you thought avoiding the wrath Junkrat, Pharah, and other characters were already something of a challenge, the addition of these cars is just one more threat that will put players on high alert as they move through the map, but some are already finding creative ways to dodge them.
Despite its name being slightly oxymoronic, Oasis does in fact bear a resemblance to the scenic Arabian Desert. It also wouldn’t be a part of Overwatch if there wasn’t a detailed backstory involved.
In addition to this new map being visually striking, the patch notes reveal that Oasis is meant to be a display of human ingenuity and invention. It is a place where researchers and academics came together “to found a city dedicated to scientific progress without restraints.” According to the lore of Overwatch,  the city and its people are governed by the Ministries, a collection of “brilliant minds who possess many secrets that have attracted the interest of powerful organizations from around the world”.
It should also be noted that any progress players make during the PTR will not transfer over to the live game. This includes any achievements, loot boxes, skill ratings, and stats.
Stay tuned to The Nerd Stash for more Overwatch updates.
