Best Overwatch 2 Characters: Top Picks for Every Role

The Blix team knows that picking the right character in Overwatch 2 is a matter of life and death. This is true for ranked and casual play alike. Okay, first refresh our previous advice articles—”Does Overwatch 2 Support Cross Platform?” and “Overwatch 2 Ranks: Ranked Rewards and Tiers“—and then let’s see who is the best.

Each role (tanking the frontlines, dishing out damage, or supporting your team – whatever) comes with its own unique responsibilities—so the best heroes in each role often stand out for their ability.

Overwatch 2’s role-based system divides the roster into Tank, Damage, and Support categories, giving players a chance to tailor their playstyle to team needs. But with an ever-evolving meta… Don’t worry—this guide dives deep into the top picks for each role, highlighting their strengths, playstyle tips, and why they’re dominating in 2024.

Highlights

• Recap of Overwatch 2 roles
• Best characters for every role with strengths and tips
• Characters for beginners
• Additional: FAQ about best Overwatch 2 characters

Best Tank Characters in Overwatch 2

The Tank role is about absorbing damage and creating space for your team to operate. Whether you’re shielding your allies or disrupting the enemy backline, the right tank can change the tide of a match.

Reinhardt

Strengths: Reinhardt’s iconic barrier provides unmatched team protection, allowing allies to push safely. His devastating hammer swings are perfect for close-quarters combat, and his Earthshatter ultimate can instantly turn team fights.

Playstyle Tips: Reinhardt excels in maps with narrow chokepoints like King’s Row or Eichenwalde, where his shield can block crucial damage while his team advances. Stick close to your team for maximum impact.

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Ramattra

Unique Abilities: Ramattra’s versatility lies in switching between Omnic form for long-range protection and Nemesis form for high-damage brawling. His Ravenous Vortex slows enemies, making him ideal for controlling key areas.

Best Situations: Ramattra shines in hybrid or control maps where his dual forms can adapt to offense and defense. Coordinate with your team to maximize his ultimate, Annihilation.

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Honorable Mentions

• D.Va: Fantastic for diving into the backline and disrupting snipers or squishy supports.
• Orisa: A durable tank with crowd control options, great for peeling and sustained fights.

Best Damage (DPS) Characters in Overwatch 2

Damage heroes are the team’s elimination specialists, tasked with securing kills and applying constant pressure. Here’s who’s standing out in the DPS lineup.

Sojourn

Strengths: Sojourn’s Railgun offers incredible mobility and long-range burst potential. Her Disruptor Shot creates zones of control, forcing enemies into vulnerable positions.

Playstyle Tips: If you’ve got a steady hand, Sojourn can carry games with pinpoint Railgun headshots. She thrives on open maps like Circuit Royal, where her mobility lets her reposition easily.

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Reaper

Strengths: Reaper dominates in close quarters with his Hellfire Shotguns, and his passive life steal makes him exceptionally durable in brawls. He’s perfect for shredding tanks and diving isolated enemies.

Counter Strategies: Avoid long-range duels against heroes like Widowmaker or Ashe. Instead, flank around choke points and engage when the enemy least expects it.

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Honorable Mentions

• Cassidy: Reliable mid-range hitscan with a deadly grenade for securing kills.
• Genji: Agile and versatile, excelling in maps with verticality or when paired with Nano Boost.

Best Support Characters in Overwatch 2

Supports are the lifeblood of any team, providing healing, utility, and survivability. Choosing the right one can keep your team in the fight longer.

Kiriko

Strengths: Kiriko’s burst healing and ability to grant invulnerability with Suzu make her indispensable in fast-paced skirmishes. Her mobility also lets her teleport to teammates in danger.

Playstyle Tips: Balance between healing allies and landing headshots for damage. Use her Kitsune Rush ultimate during critical pushes for maximum value.

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Ana

Strengths: Ana’s long-range healing is perfect for teams that spread out. Her Sleep Dart can shut down ultimates, and Nano Boost is a game-changer for high-damage teammates.

Best Scenarios: Ana excels in maps with clear sightlines like Junkertown. Pair her with aggressive tanks or DPS for devastating results.

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Honorable Mentions

• Lucio: Ideal for speeding up team pushes and providing area healing.
• Baptiste: A hybrid support with intense healing and offensive potential.

Best Characters for Beginners in Overwatch 2

For new players, simplicity and versatility are key. These heroes are easy to pick up but still offer plenty of room to grow.

Soldier: 76

Why He’s Beginner-Friendly: Soldier’s hitscan rifle, sprint ability, and healing field make him straightforward to learn. His tactical visor ultimate ensures consistent damage, even if your aim isn’t perfect.

Best Maps: Soldier performs well on most maps but shines in modes like Escort, where his range and mobility let him control key areas.

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Mercy

Strengths: Mercy’s easy-to-learn mechanics make her a go-to support for beginners. Her Resurrect ability can swing fights, and her damage boost is excellent for amplifying DPS heroes.

Tips: Focus on prioritizing healing, but don’t forget to damage-boost allies when your team is fully topped up.

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How to Choose the Best Character for Your Playstyle

Finding the best Overwatch 2 character often depends on your preferred playstyle:

• Aggressive: Try heroes like Reaper (DPS), Winston (Tank), or Kiriko (Support).
• Defensive: Consider Bastion (DPS), Sigma (Tank), or Ana (Support).
• Hybrid: Go for versatile picks like Ramattra or Baptiste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the strongest character in Overwatch 2?

The strongest character varies with the meta, but heroes like Sojourn and Kiriko consistently rank high due to their flexibility and high-impact abilities.

How often does Overwatch 2 balance its characters?

Blizzard regularly updates the game after tournaments or major patches to ensure fair gameplay.

Can new players succeed with advanced heroes?

Yes, but starting with beginner-friendly options like Soldier: 76 or Mercy helps players grasp the basics before diving into complex characters.