Deflecting the Dragon: A Deep Dive into Hanzo’s Ultimate and Genji’s Deflect in Overwatch 2
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Yes, you absolutely can deflect Hanzo’s ultimate in Overwatch 2. However, it’s not quite as straightforward as deflecting a standard projectile. Genji, with his Deflect ability, has the power to redirect Hanzo’s Dragonstrike, but the timing and mechanics are crucial for success. This article will delve into the intricacies of this interaction, providing a comprehensive understanding for players of all skill levels. We’ll explore the nuances of deflecting Hanzo’s ult, examine other heroes’ abilities that can counter it, and answer some frequently asked questions to solidify your knowledge of this critical gameplay element.
Understanding Hanzo’s Dragonstrike
Hanzo’s Dragonstrike ultimate is a formidable ability that unleashes two spectral dragons that travel in a line, passing through walls and dealing significant damage to any enemies in their path. The ultimate is initiated when Hanzo fires an arrow, which, after a short distance, transforms into the two dragons. It is the arrow that Genji must deflect, not the dragons themselves.
The Deflection Window
The critical point to remember is that Genji can only deflect the initial arrow before it transforms. Once the dragons are formed, they are immune to deflection. This requires precise timing and anticipation on Genji’s part. Misjudge the distance or delay your deflect even slightly, and you’ll likely find yourself engulfed by the dragon’s wrath.
What Happens When Deflected?
If Genji successfully deflects Hanzo’s arrow, the dragons will spawn and travel in the opposite direction, originating from Genji’s location. This can be devastating for Hanzo’s team, turning their own ultimate against them. A well-timed deflection can completely disrupt Hanzo’s plan and potentially lead to multiple eliminations.
Strategies for Deflecting Dragonstrike
Successfully deflecting Dragonstrike requires a combination of skill, timing, and game sense. Here are some tips to improve your chances:
- Anticipate Hanzo’s Intentions: Pay attention to Hanzo’s positioning and behavior. If he’s flanking or holding a strategic angle, he may be preparing to unleash his ultimate.
- Listen for Audio Cues: The audio cue for Dragonstrike is distinct. When you hear Hanzo shout his ultimate line (“Ryū ga waga teki wo kurau!”), be ready to deflect.
- Time Your Deflect Carefully: Don’t activate Deflect too early or too late. Aim for the moment the arrow is about to reach you. Predicting where the Hanzo will shoot is key.
- Positioning is Key: Place yourself strategically to maximize the impact of your deflected dragons. Aim for chokepoints or areas where enemies are likely to be grouped together.
- Practice in the Training Range: The training range is an excellent place to practice your timing and get a feel for the distance and speed of Hanzo’s arrow.
- Communicate with Your Team: Let your team know when you’re expecting a Dragonstrike so they can prepare to capitalize on the deflected ultimate.
- Mind Games: Sometimes, just the threat of a deflect can deter a Hanzo from using his ultimate, forcing him to reposition or waste valuable time.
Alternatives to Deflection: Other Counter Measures
While Genji’s Deflect is a direct counter to Hanzo’s ultimate, other heroes have abilities that can mitigate or negate its effects. Here are a few examples:
- D.Va’s Defense Matrix: D.Va can absorb the initial arrow with her Defense Matrix, preventing the dragons from spawning. This is a reliable counter as it offers more flexibility than Genji’s Deflect.
- Zarya’s Bubbles: Zarya can shield herself or an ally with her bubbles, mitigating the damage from the dragons.
- Lucio’s Sound Barrier: Lucio’s ultimate can provide a temporary shield to the entire team, allowing them to survive the Dragonstrike.
- Immortality Field (Baptiste): Baptiste’s Immortality Field can prevent teammates from dying inside the dragonstrike.
- Kiriko’s Protection Suzu: This ability can cleanse allies of the damage caused by the ultimate.
- Reinhardt’s Barrier Shield: Reinhardt’s shield can block Dragonstrike when positioned correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about deflecting Hanzo’s ultimate and related topics:
Can D.Va’s Defense Matrix block Hanzo’s ULT?
Yes, D.Va’s Defense Matrix can completely absorb Hanzo’s initial arrow, preventing the dragons from ever forming.
Can Sigma’s barrier stop Hanzo’s ULT?
No, Sigma’s barrier cannot stop the dragons once they are formed, as the dragons pass through walls and barriers. However, like D.Va, he can block the initial arrow before the dragons form.
Can Orisa’s Javelin Spin deflect Hanzo’s ULT?
Yes, Orisa’s Javelin Spin can negate the damage caused by Hanzo’s dragon.
Does Hanzo’s ULT go through walls?
Yes, Hanzo’s Dragonstrike is designed to pass through walls, making it a potent zoning tool and area-denial ultimate.
Can Hanzo’s ULT kill D.Va in her mech?
Yes, if D.Va is caught within the Dragonstrike, the damage can destroy her mech and potentially eliminate her if she doesn’t eject in time.
What other ultimates can Genji deflect?
Genji can deflect a wide range of projectile-based ultimates, including: McCree’s High Noon (initial shots), Pharah’s Barrage (rockets), and Soldier: 76’s Tactical Visor (bullets).
Can Genji deflect Junkrat’s RIP-Tire?
No, Genji cannot deflect Junkrat’s RIP-Tire.
Why can’t Genji deflect Zarya’s Graviton Surge?
The Graviton Surge is not a projectile that can be deflected. It’s a beam that pulls enemies into a central point.
Does deflecting Hanzo’s ULT count as an assist for Genji?
If Genji’s deflected Dragonstrike results in enemy eliminations, he will receive elimination credit and potentially an assist if another teammate contributed to the kill.
How long does Genji’s Deflect last?
Genji’s Deflect lasts for two seconds. This requires precise timing.
Is it easier to deflect Hanzo’s ULT on console or PC?
PC generally offers more precise aiming and reaction time due to the use of a mouse and keyboard, which can make deflecting Dragonstrike easier. However, skilled console players can also consistently deflect Hanzo’s ult with practice. According to the original article, a console’s joysticks is indeed harder to maneuver, than a mouse.
Can Hanzo’s ULT be countered by Sombra’s EMP?
No, Sombra’s EMP disables abilities but does not directly affect existing projectiles or ultimates like Dragonstrike.
Why does Hanzo have two dragons in his ultimate?
According to the original article, Hanzo has two dragons not due to any sort of backstory, but due to a design change. Hanzo originally had only 1 dragon, but the Overwatch team felt it didn’t show exactly where his ult was well enough.
What happens if Genji deflects the dragonstrike near a wall?
The dragons might collide with the wall, causing them to dissipate prematurely and reducing their effective range.
Is there a cooldown on Genji’s Deflect?
Yes, Genji’s Deflect has an 8-second cooldown, so use it wisely.
Conclusion
Deflecting Hanzo’s Dragonstrike is a high-skill, high-reward play that can turn the tide of a battle. By understanding the mechanics of the ultimate and Genji’s Deflect, practicing your timing, and coordinating with your team, you can significantly improve your chances of successfully redirecting the dragons and punishing Hanzo’s team. Remember to stay vigilant, anticipate the ultimate, and be ready to react quickly. Success lies in the harmony of skill, strategy, and split-second decision-making.
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