In a recent video released over Bethesda's YouTube channel, the developers at Machine Games delved into some of the changes William "BJ" Blazkowicz. has undergone, as well as the cast of Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus comprising characters new and old.
Check it out:
The most significant take-away from this video is that BJ is no longer the wooden protagonist of the previous series whose most defining characteristic was an extreme dislike of Nazis. He's now got a child on the way and, from the very first clip of the above video, is firmly motivated to protect his newfound family.
"This time it's even more personal for BJ. He's got a lot more in the fight, it's not just America. He has a growing family."
This is definitely a step up from The New Order. While certainly an entertaining character, BJ was lacking some real depth in the first installment. Our only indication was a mysterious, underdeveloped past relationship with Wilhelm "Deathshead" Strasse, the late antagonist of the Wolfenstein series. With his death, BJ's new conviction has been placed in the safety and security of his girlfriend and child.
The video also sheds some light on the cast of Wolfenstein 2, which seems to be largely made up of returning characters. Probst Wyatt and Fergus Reid have both returned (depending on your initial choice in The New Order), as well as the characters of paraplegic Caroline Becker, scientist Set Roth, Bombate, Max Hass, and, of course, Anya Oliwa.
There's also several new faces joining the resistance. Grace and Horton, respectively voiced by Debris Wilson and Christopher Heyerdahl, portray two new vivid personalities, while Don McManus voices "Super Spesh." This last one in particular we're apparently supposed to enjoy, if the developers' enthusiasm is any indication.
Horton hears a BJ Blazkowicz. Via YouTube.
Unsurprisingly, Frau Engel is also making a return. Visibly scarred by BJ's actions from the first game, Engel has made it her life's goal to eliminate him personally, and has been granted unique tools to accomplish this objective. One of these is Frau Engel's own personal flying air fortress, the "Ausmerzer" - and if we don't blow that up at some point in the game I'll be genuinely surprised.
Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus is scheduled to release on October 27, 2017 for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. For more information on the title, you can check out the many media releases on the studio's YouTube channel, or by visiting the game's official website.
