Moira | |
---|---|
Overwatch character | |
First appearance | Overwatch: Masquerade comic (2017) |
First game | Overwatch (2017) |
Created by | Arnold Tsang[1] |
Voiced by | Genevieve O'Reilly[2] |
In-universe information | |
Class | Support |
Origin | Dublin, Ireland |
Nationality | Irish |
Moira O'Deorain is a character from the 2016 video game Overwatch, a Blizzard Entertainment–developed first-person shooter. First appearing in a 2017 tie-in comic, she was later added as a playable character in an update for the game, and returned for its sequel. Voiced by Genevieve O'Reilly, Moira serves as a healer who can refill her resources by damaging enemies with her main attack. Within the Overwatch story, she is an Irish geneticist who refuses to let any ethical constraints interfere with scientific advancement, and works with the terrorist group Talon to this end while posing as a member of the scientific community. Since the game's release she has appeared in various spinoff media related to the franchise, including comics and merchandise.
Designed as a "Support" character able to also deal a large amount of damage, she is able to both heal allies or alternatively siphon health from enemies. Moira has been positively received from video game media writers and the game's fan base alike since her unveiling, with the latter lauding her as a queer icon. Media writers have praised her characterization and role as a villain within the game's story. Her visual design, particularly her androgyny, has also been especially well-received. Seen as a core driver of the character's critical and fan acclaim, it has earned her frequent comparison to actor and musician David Bowie.