The arrival of Warwick, the bloodthirsty monster from League of Legends, was one of the most anticipated moments in Arcane Season 2. Riot Games masterfully teased this transformation, building tension since Season 1.
In Act 2 of Arcane season 2, fans were left in awe as Warwick awakened in a chilling sequence, triggered by Singed spilling his blood on the streets. Warwick recognizes Vi and Powder (now Jinx), only for Isha to fire an upgraded Hextech-powered weapon, causing a massive explosion in the season’s climax. But does this mean Vander, now Warwick, has met his end?
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Is Vander’s Warwick Gone for Good?
At this point, it seems unlikely that Vander, now reborn as Warwick, has perished. While Isha’s attack caused an explosion fueled by Jinx’s Hextech-gun, Warwick’s survival is almost certain. Singed, the Zaunite alchemist responsible for Warwick’s creation, previously disclosed that Warwick possesses regenaration, capable of reviving even a lifeless body. A mere explosion wouldn’t be enough to end this monstrous entity, especially after such buildup.
Singed’s experimentation on Vander’s body was first teased in Arcane Season 1, Episode 9, leaving fans to speculate about his transformation. Now that Warwick has entered the narrative in full force, it would be narratively inconsistent to have him eliminated so quickly, especially by a newly introduced character like Isha.
The Monster Emerges, but What About Vander?
As Warwick unleashed his wrath in the climactic moments of Act 2, it became evident that the gentle, protective Vander we knew is buried deep within.
Viktor, the ‘Hextech jesus’, briefly glimpsed a fragment of Vander’s humanity within Warwick. However, with Viktor’s death at the hands of Jayce, the beast took over entirely, casting Vander’s essence into the void.
For now, it seems that Warwick is fully in control, with the vestiges of Vander lost within the monstrous form. Despite this, there remains a glimmer of hope.
Warwick’s brief recognition of Vi and Powder suggests that Vander’s humanity hasn’t been completely extinguished. This recognition could resurface in the final act, but not before Warwick’s rampage claims numerous innocent lives.
What’s Next for Warwick?
Warwick’s transformation from Vander represents the tragic cost of Zaun’s descent into chaos. Though the beast currently reigns supreme, Arcane has proven its ability to blend heartbreak and redemption. The potential for Vander’s humanity to resurface remains, setting the stage for an emotional clash between the monster and the man.
Whether Vander fully returns or Warwick’s path of destruction continues, one thing is certain: this character’s arc in Arcane is far from over.