Overwatch Actor Backs Anran Redesign Debate as Community Push Grows

An Overwatch actor has publicly supported growing criticism around the in-game design of Anran, one of the newly introduced heroes following Blizzard’s recent rebranding of Overwatch. The comments came as players continued debating what has been dubbed the “Kirikofication” issue, referring to perceived visual homogenization among newer characters.

The discussion intensified after Anran’s in-game model appeared noticeably different from her earlier cinematic and comic depictions. Fans have focused on facial features and overall expression, arguing that the final design softened traits that once set the character apart.

Anran’s cinematic design set expectations Blizzard did not meet

The controversy centers on the gap between Anran’s first reveal and her playable appearance. In early promotional material, including a cinematic short and tie-in comic, Anran was shown with sharper facial structure and a more imposing presence that aligned with her elemental fire-based identity.

When players gained access to the character in-game, many felt that the final model closely resembled existing heroes such as Kiriko and Juno. The similarities triggered concern that Overwatch’s traditionally varied character design philosophy was being diluted.

These reactions gained momentum on social platforms, with fans calling on Blizzard to revise Anran’s appearance to better match her original portrayal. The term “Kirikofication” quickly became shorthand for fears that newer heroes were converging toward a single aesthetic template.

Overwatch actor Fareeha Anderson speaks out

The debate reached a new level when Anran’s voice actor, Fareeha Anderson, addressed the issue directly in a video shared publicly. She acknowledged feeling disappointed by the transition from the cinematic version of the character to the in-game model.

Anderson said she took time before speaking out, balancing respect for the development team with her own attachment to the character. She described having to “mourn” the version of Anran she initially connected with during the project’s early stages.

According to Anderson, the cinematic design appeared to signal a deliberate challenge to narrow beauty standards often seen in games and other media. She noted that the final in-game version did not fully reflect that earlier promise, which she believes explains the depth of the community’s reaction.

Design choices and character identity under scrutiny

In her remarks, the Overwatch actor also questioned how well Anran’s in-game appearance aligns with the hero’s personality and elemental role. She described the final look as more subdued and less authoritative than expected for a fire-based character.

Players have echoed this sentiment, arguing that visual design plays a major role in how heroes are perceived and remembered. For a franchise long praised for varied body types, facial features, and silhouettes, the issue has struck a sensitive nerve.

Anderson emphasized that the discussion is not trivial. She framed it as a meaningful conversation about representation and creative intent, stating that speaking up is necessary when players and creators feel disconnected from the final outcome.

Where Blizzard stands and what remains unclear

Blizzard has not announced any confirmed plans to redesign Anran’s in-game model. There has been no official statement indicating whether visual changes are under consideration or whether the current design is final.

What is clear is that Anderson shared her feedback internally before making her views public. She said the development team encouraged openness and honesty, suggesting that internal discussions are ongoing even if no decisions have been communicated.

The Overwatch actor’s comments have added weight to a debate already active within the player base. As Overwatch enters a new chapter with its rebranding and influx of heroes, how Blizzard responds to concerns around Anran may shape trust in the franchise’s creative direction going forward.