Overwatch 2: Mastering the Crusader’s Role

Overwatch 2 Reinhardt Guide

Reinhardt, the beloved tank of Overwatch's original roster, has faced challenges adapting to the switch from 6v6 to 5v5 teams in Overwatch 2. The game's dynamics have evolved, emphasizing mobility and versatility over the traditional anchor-tank role that Reinhardt once dominated. Yet, despite this shift, there is a fresh approach for players to rediscover the stalwart knight's value on the battlefield. We're about to explore some key strategies that breathe new life into his gameplay, transforming the way Reinhardt is utilized in the current meta.

Embracing a more aggressive playstyle is at the heart of these strategies, diverging from the classic, defensive posture often associated with Reinhardt. This proactive stance enables Reinhardt players to apply pressure and maintain relevance in Overwatch 2's fast-paced combat environment. Crucially, it's not just about charging headfirst into the enemy; it's about understanding when to be combative and how to use Reinhardt's toolkit effectively to disrupt opponents and secure victories for his team.

Advancing with Reinhardt: Dominating the Mid-Range

In the competitive environment of Overwatch 2, Reinhardt's strategy is all about claiming territory through assertive advancement. This tactic is crucial given that in a team battle, gaining command of the mid-range is key to victory. Here's how to capitalize on Reinhardt's strengths:

Control the Mid-Range: Reinhardt can seize valuable space by simply moving forward, forcing the enemy to respond to his presence.
Pressure Opponents: Especially against less mobile tanks like Sigma, use Reinhardt's advance to lead your team and negotiate around enemy strengths.
Shield Management: While pressurizing, be judicious with your barrier. Its use is essential to protect yourself and your team as you progress across the battlefield.
Ultimate Charging: Close combat with Reinhardt not only exerts space control but also rapidly charges his ultimate ability, making every hammer swing against Zarya, Ram, Monkey, and Dva count.

Reinhardt's immense value shines when he's in proximity to his foes. His hammer poses a lethal threat capable of dispatching most adversaries swiftly, turning the tide of battle. Rather than relentlessly pushing forward, a more nuanced approach involves adapting to the enemy's pace, compelling them to engage with Reinhardt and his increased damage capability.

The key here is balance; advancing with purpose while remaining adaptable, employing the shield strategically, and optimizing ultimate charge accumulation. With a keen sense of timing and spatial control, Reinhardt can dominate the crucial mid-range and lead the team to success.

Master the Art of Firestrike

In Overwatch 2, Reinhardt's Firestrike has become a formidable tool, dealing 120 damage per hit. It's an exceptional move not only for its high damage but for accruing ultimate charge rapidly. A savvy Reinhardt player makes the most of Firestrike by lining up shots that penetrate through multiple enemies.

Optimize Each Cast: Ensure every Firestrike counts by aiming for clusters of opponents.
Double the Opportunity: Firestrike comes with two charges—use them strategically to maintain pressure and accelerate your ultimate meter.

For those playing on offense, utilize choke points like Eichenwalde's first gate or the narrow streets of King's Row to amplify Firestrike's effectiveness. By leveraging map layout, players can expedite their ultimate readiness, paving the way for game-changing Earthshatters.

Mastering Reinhardt's Earthshatter in Overwatch 2

In Overwatch 2, mastering the use of Reinhardt's Earthshatter can turn the tide of battle. As shields become less prevalent, the value of a well-timed Earthshatter increases significantly. Reinhardt accumulates his ultimate charge rapidly, underscoring the importance of strategic use of this game-changing ultimate.

When the chance arises to use Earthshatter on a solitary support, it can lead to a game-winning situation. Post-shatter, a smart follow-up is using Firestrike to quickly regain ultimate charge:

Solo-Shatter: Target a high-value support to tilt team fights in your favor.
Team Engagement: After a group shatter, maximize damage with Firestrike.

Against other tanks like Sigma or Winston, anticipate their movements and plan your Earthshatter accordingly. In such face-offs, it's not merely about who strikes first but who strikes wisely:

Tank Duel: Outsmart the opponent by predicting their actions.
Ultimate Conservation: Save your Earthshatter for the optimal moment, rather than unleashing it prematurely.

Engage in Combat

Reinhardt's signature move in Overwatch 2 is his versatile Charge. Players often see this ability as a double-edged sword due to how it can leave Reinhardt vulnerable to counter-attacks such as Ana's Sleep Dart or Doomfist's Rocket Punch. Nonetheless, its adaptability as a tool for mobility is undeniable.

Strategic Uses of Charge:

Mobility: Reinhardt can now halt his Charge at will, granting him the flexibility to retreat rapidly.
Deception: Employing Charge as a bluff, Reinhardt can pretend to advance, only to stop short and maintain position.
Control: Through feigned aggression, Reinhardt captures territory and can throw opponents off balance.

Consider Reinhardt's Charge like a chess move; it's about anticipation and misdirection. A sudden reversal or a well-anticipated cancel can shift the momentum of battle. Think strategically—Reinhardt is akin to a chess piece on the battlefield, compelling adversaries to predict his next move.

Maintain Your Health

In the thick of battle, the survival of Reinhardt hinges on steady healing. He flourishes when flanked by high-burst healers who enable his aggressive maneuvers. Reliable healers like Ana, Baptiste, and Moira can be game-changers, empowering Reinhardt to dive headfirst into the fray when an enemy falls, thus tilting the numbers in his favor.

Moreover, his hefty barrier—boasting 1600 hit points—serves as a dwindling reserve of health rather than just a way to breach chokepoints. Using this shield strategically allows team members to seek refuge and recover. Here are some critical points to keep Reinhardt at his combat best:

Strategic Shield Use: Treat the shield as a temporary buffer to allow for tactical retreats and healing.
Healer Synergy: Partner closely with healers to push the offense, especially after an enemy is taken down.
Balanced Aggression: While it's tempting to charge ahead, ensuring the shield isn't wasted is crucial.

Remember, a well-maintained Reinhardt is a formidable opponent on the battlefield.