Overwatch 2 Updates Planned for Reinhardt and Winston

Overwatch 2 is set to receive significant buffs for Reinhardt and Winston, two iconic tank heroes. While details are still being finalized, lead gameplay designer Alec Dawson confirmed these updates are imminent, offering much-needed improvements to these classic characters.

Dawson, in a recent interview with OW2 content creator Spilo, discussed the upcoming balance changes. He highlighted a philosophy focused on addressing past design mistakes, such as creating overly versatile heroes. The planned buffs for Reinhardt and Winston aim to address this imbalance.

Key proposed changes include a substantial increase to the damage dealt by Reinhardt's Charge (potentially to 300, instantly eliminating most non-tank heroes upon pinning), and improvements to Winston's Tesla Cannon alt-fire and Primal Rage ultimate. Specifically, a reduced charge time for the alt-fire is likely. While details on the Primal Rage ultimate are scarce, improvements are confirmed.

Potential Buffs:

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

Reinhardt and Winston, original Overwatch tanks, have historically either dominated or struggled in the meta. These buffs aim to bolster their performance within Overwatch 2's one-tank gameplay structure.

Although a release date hasn't been confirmed, given the recent start of Overwatch 2 Season 11, the buffs are expected within the next few weeks, potentially arriving in a mid-season patch sometime in July.

The interview also touched on other heroes. Mauga's Cardiac Overdrive is under review, focusing on incentivizing aggressive plays, and Dawson teased the upcoming Support hero in Space Ranger, hinting at a unique, highly mobile kit with a mechanic shared by only one other character. More information on these changes and Space Ranger is expected soon.