The dual shield meta in Overwatch is gone. Yes, you read it right. One of the biggest changes in the second installment of this hero-based first-person shooter released by Blizzard Entertainment is the 5v5 main PvP matches with only one tank required. This necessary change makes combat less chaotic and more focused, but also essentially eliminates the Main or “Defensive Tank”and “Out of Tank”sub-roles. However, this puts tank players at the center of the team as they now have additional responsibilities. This means that tankers in the game, who were comfortable playing at their own pace in OW1, now have to re-learn several vital skills in order to play this vital role effectively. Therefore, in this guide, we will discuss,
How to play the role of a tank in Overwatch 2
Now, if you’re a fairly experienced Overwatch player, you might know that the main purpose of the tank role is to create space for your team. This is done by taking the brunt of the opponent’s attacks with your high health pool. This was usually complemented by overlord shields in OW1, which players used to reduce any initial brawling. This made the game boring as DPS agents had to overcome that barrier before engaging in combat, so things changed with the release of OW2. Naturally, this greatly changes the pace and style of the tankers’ game. So here are some tips to help you tank effectively for your team:
Versatile play style
Overwatch 2 seems to have done away with the role of the shield tank in the game: Orisa has lost this ability, and Reinhardt has seriously weakened his Barrier Field ability. This now means that the only role of the Tank in 5v5 matches is to do both: withstand enemy attacks and play offensively in a timely manner. You will need to adapt your dynamic role to be the optimal tank for your team.
Set the pace
The role of the tank in this game is more important than ever before. Your team composition will depend on the tank character you choose, as some DPS and support characters have better synergy with certain tank abilities. This brings different playstyles to the arena and therefore your character will primarily set the pace for your team. Tanks are usually the first contact and the initiator of the fight, so you should choose the most viable hero.
Vitality
As the only tank on your team, you must know when to pull out of combat in order to survive. This is because tanks are the front line of defense and destroying a tank on any team usually means a lost battle for the team. Despite your massive health pool, your survival is essential, so you need to make tactical retreats to ensure your support heals you when needed.
Create an impact
In addition to playing a defensive role, you must also be prepared to exploit enemies in vulnerable positions. Chat with your DPS teammates and plan attacks to knock out the enemy team. Most tanks have powerful damage-dealing abilities so they don’t shy away from fights and aggressive play.
That’s all for how to play as a tank in Overwatch 2. I hope we helped you with this article.