Blizzard has introduced a new tier of cosmetic items for Overwatch, dubbed 'Ultra' skins, which feature unique visual and audio effects during enemy kills, but the $35 price tag for individual skins has ignited significant fan criticism. These new skins, which include the "Nyan Cafe" outfits for Kiriko and Sierra, cost 3500 Overwatch Coins, a substantial increase from the 1900 coins ($19) typically required for Legendary skins. While Ultra skins offer visual flourishes akin to customizable Mythic skins, they lack the color and component customization options. For comparison, previously the highest tier, Legendary skins, cost 1900 Overwatch Coins, equivalent to $19.
Bundles are also available for the "Nyan Cafe" skins, offering additional items like emotes and highlight intros. These bundles are priced at $45 individually, or $69 for both Kiriko and Sierra's bundles. A larger themed bundle encompassing "Nyan Cafe" cosmetics for Orisa, Reaper, and Ashe is available for $99. The article notes that purchasing these items separately would amount to $199, framing the $99 bundle as a relative bargain.
Fans have expressed their dissatisfaction, arguing that the added kill-effect flair does not justify nearly doubling the price of existing high-tier skins. Comparisons have been drawn to previous collaborations, such as the Le Sserafim K-pop event, and the value offered in the $40 seasonal Ultimate Battle Pass. Some players have pointed out that certain existing Legendary skins for characters like Kiriko already possess visual effects that are not present on the new Ultra skins, even if these effects are applied to the character model rather than kill animations. The pricing also stands in contrast to the offerings in games like Marvel Rivals, where similar visual effects are available at lower price points.
Despite the vocal backlash, some players have already purchased the new cosmetics. Kiriko, in particular, is highlighted as a significant revenue generator for the game since her introduction in 2022. The response from some players, including comments on social media, indicates a mixed reception, with some expressing strong disapproval while others, like pop star Doja Cat, have shared their positive reactions to the new cosmetic designs.