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Overwatch 2: Reinhardt and Winston Buff Incoming

by Riley Jan 21,2025

Overwatch 2: Reinhardt and Winston Buff Incoming

Overwatch 2 is gearing up to significantly boost Reinhardt and Winston, two iconic tanks. While specifics are still under wraps, lead gameplay designer Alec Dawson recently hinted at substantial buffs in an interview with content creator Spilo. These changes aim to revitalize these classic heroes, addressing past design missteps that led to imbalances compared to newer characters.

Dawson discussed a philosophy shift away from overly versatile heroes. The upcoming adjustments include: a potential damage increase to Reinhardt's Charge, potentially reaching 300 to instantly eliminate most non-tank heroes upon pinning; a faster charge time for Winston's Tesla Cannon alt-fire; and unspecified but significant improvements to Winston's Primal Rage ultimate.

Potential Buffs:

  • Reinhardt: Charge pin damage increased to 300.
  • Winston: Reduced Tesla Cannon alt-fire charge time.
  • Winston: Primal Rage ultimate enhancements.

Reinhardt and Winston, veterans from Overwatch 1, have struggled to maintain relevance in Overwatch 2's one-tank meta. These buffs aim to rectify this, allowing them to compete more effectively.

While a precise release date remains unconfirmed, given the recent start of Season 11, players can anticipate these changes within the next few weeks, likely incorporated into a mid-season patch (potentially arriving sometime in mid-July or earlier).

The interview also touched upon other heroes. Mauga's Cardiac Overdrive is under review, focusing on incentivizing aggressive plays. And, regarding the upcoming Space Ranger hero (Season 12), Dawson teased a highly mobile support with a unique mechanic shared by only one other character. More details on these adjustments and Space Ranger are expected soon.