The two-shield meta in Overwatch is gone. Yes, you read that right. One of the biggest changes in the second installment of this hero-based FPS released by Blizzard Entertainment are the 5v5 matches in the main PvP mode, with a one Tank only mandate. This necessary change makes the combat less chaotic and more focused but also essentially does away with the sub-roles of Main or ‘Shield Tank’ and ‘Off Tank’. This however, puts Tank players under a spotlight in a team as it comes with added responsibilities now. This means Tank-mains in the game who played comfortably at their own pace in OW1 will now have to relearn a few vital skills in order to play this vital role effectively, So in this guide we will discuss how you can play Tanks in Overwatch 2.
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How to play Tank Role in Overwatch 2
Now, if you are a fairly experienced Overwatch player, you may know that the primary objective of the Tank role is to create space for your team. This is executed by taking the brunt of enemy’s attacks with your large health pool. This was usually complemented with the overbearing Shields in OW1 that players used to reduce any initial brawl. This made the game boring with DPS agents having to break this barrier before engaging in any combat, so with the release of OW2, all of this has changed. Naturally, this brings a lot of change in pace and playstyle of Tank players. So here are some tips to help you Tank effectively for your team:
Versatile Playstyle
Overwatch 2 seems to have done away with the Shield Tank role in the game with Orisa losing that capability and Reinhardt getting severe nerfs to his Barrier Field ability. Now, this means that the only Tank role in the 5v5 matches has to do both, sustain enemy attacks and also play offensively in a timely manner. You will need to adapt a dynamic role to be the optimal Tank for your team.
Set The Pace
The Tank role in this game is more vital than ever before. Your team’s composition will be dependent on the Tank character you choose, as some DPS and Support characters have better synergy with certain Tank abilities. This brings various different playstyles to the arena and thus your character will primarily set the pace for your team. Tanks are usually the first contact and initiators of a fight so you must pick a hero that is the most viable.
Survivability
As the only Tank on your team, you must know when to disengage from a fight to survive. This is because Tanks are the front line of defense and the Tank being eliminated in any team usually means a lost fight for a team eventually. Despite your massive health pool, your survival is essential so you need to tactically retreat to be healed by your Support when required.
Create Impact
Besides playing a defensive role, you must also be ready to take advantage of enemies in vulnerable positions. Communicate with your DPS teammates and plan for attacks in order to knockout the enemy team. Most Tanks have some heavy damage-dealing abilities to don’t shy away from taking fights and playing offensively.
That’s all there is on how to play Tank in Overwatch 2. Hopefully we have helped you with this article. While you’re here, you should check out this guide on how to transfer Legacy Credits in this game.