Is Bastion a Tank in Overwatch 2? Examining the Omnic’s Role
No, Bastion is not a tank in Overwatch 2. He is classified as a Damage (DPS) hero. While Bastion possesses some characteristics that might suggest tank-like qualities, such as his significant armor and ability to briefly transform into a tank-like configuration, his primary function and design are centered around dealing high, sustained damage. He lacks the core attributes that define a tank, such as consistent damage mitigation abilities, the ability to create space for the team, or high sustain. Let’s delve deeper into why Bastion is a DPS hero and what that means for gameplay.
Understanding Bastion’s Role
Bastion’s strength lies in his Configuration: Assault, where he becomes a stationary turret unleashing a torrent of bullets. This is a far cry from the mobility and survivability expected of tank heroes. Even though Bastion can enter a tank form as an ability, this transformation is temporary and primarily used for burst damage and repositioning, rather than sustained frontline presence. His large hitbox, while resembling some tanks, makes him vulnerable to focused fire and strategic plays designed to exploit his immobility. His reliance on teammates for protection further solidifies his role as a damage dealer who needs to be enabled, not a self-sufficient frontline brawler.
Bastion’s Evolution: From the Original to Overwatch 2
Originally, Bastion’s ultimate ability transformed him into a literal tank, emphasizing the temporary nature of his tank-like features. However, with the shift to a 5v5 format in Overwatch 2, and the character redesign, this ultimate has been replaced with a more versatile Artillery configuration, reinforcing his role as a damage-focused hero with the ability to deal significant burst damage from a distance. This new ultimate ability is about raining down artillery strikes from above, making his area denial abilities much more valuable, but further separating him from the conventional tank role.
Why Bastion Isn’t a Tank
- Lack of Consistent Damage Mitigation: Tanks have abilities to absorb or mitigate large amounts of damage, protecting their team. Bastion’s armor provides some defense, but it’s insufficient to sustain heavy fire consistently.
- Limited Mobility: While his Configuration: Assault deals massive damage, it roots him in place, making him vulnerable to flanks and coordinated attacks. True tanks need to be able to reposition and adapt to the flow of battle.
- No Space Creation: Tanks excel at creating space for their team by pushing forward and drawing enemy fire. Bastion, in Assault configuration, is stationary and relies on his team to defend him.
- Reliance on Team Support: Bastion heavily depends on his team for shields, healing, and protection. Tanks are generally more self-sufficient.
FAQs: Bastion in Overwatch 2
1. Is Bastion a good hero in Overwatch 2?
Bastion can be a very strong hero in Overwatch 2, especially when used in coordinated team compositions. His high damage output can quickly melt enemies, but he requires good positioning and team support to be effective. He is particularly strong on maps with chokepoints and in situations where he can set up in a protected location.
2. What heroes counter Bastion?
Several heroes can effectively counter Bastion. Widowmaker, Ashe, and Sojourn can out-range him and pick him off from a distance. Genji’s Deflect ability can turn Bastion’s own damage against him. Zarya’s bubbles and Reinhardt’s shield can block his damage, allowing their team to advance.
3. What is Bastion’s biggest weakness?
Bastion’s biggest weakness is his immobility in Configuration: Assault. This makes him a prime target for flankers and coordinated attacks. He is also vulnerable to snipers who can headshot him from a distance. He also depends on teammates for healing.
4. How has Bastion changed from Overwatch 1 to Overwatch 2?
Bastion has undergone significant changes. His self-repair ability has been replaced with a grenade. His ultimate, Tank Configuration, has been replaced with Artillery Configuration. These changes have made him more mobile and versatile, but also less reliant on sustained damage in a single location.
5. What is the best strategy for playing against Bastion?
The best strategy for playing against Bastion involves coordinating attacks to exploit his immobility. Flanking him, using long-range heroes, or using abilities to block or deflect his damage are all effective tactics. Avoiding direct confrontation in his line of sight is crucial.
6. Does Bastion’s Configuration: Assault have unlimited ammo?
Yes, in Configuration: Assault, Bastion has unlimited ammo, allowing him to sustain fire for an extended period without reloading. This is a key aspect of his high damage output.
7. Can Bastion move while in Configuration: Assault?
No, Bastion is stationary while in Configuration: Assault. This is a major vulnerability and something players must consider when positioning. Once positioned, Bastion needs team protection.
8. How long does Bastion’s Artillery ultimate last?
Bastion’s Artillery ultimate allows him to fire up to three artillery strikes from a top-down perspective within a limited time. This is about 6 seconds.
9. Is Bastion’s Tank ultimate better than Artillery ultimate?
The effectiveness of Bastion’s Tank ultimate versus Artillery ultimate is situational. Tank ultimate excels in close-quarters combat, while the Artillery ultimate provides area denial from a distance.
10. What role should I pick to complement Bastion?
Heroes that can protect Bastion and enable his high damage output are ideal. Reinhardt and Orisa can provide shields, while Mercy and Ana can provide healing and damage amplification.
11. What are some tips for playing Bastion effectively?
Position yourself strategically, taking advantage of cover and high ground. Communicate with your team to coordinate attacks and receive protection. Use Configuration: Assault wisely, and be prepared to relocate if necessary.
12. Is Bastion better on attack or defense?
Bastion can be effective on both attack and defense, but he often excels on defense, where he can set up in a fortified position and control key areas. On attack, he can be used to break through chokepoints.
13. Does Bastion’s armor make him a pseudo-tank?
While Bastion’s armor provides some damage resistance, it doesn’t make him a true tank. Tanks need to be able to absorb and mitigate large amounts of damage consistently, which Bastion cannot do.
14. Can Bastion self-heal in Overwatch 2?
No, Bastion cannot self-heal in Overwatch 2. His self-repair ability was removed and replaced with a grenade.
15. Is Bastion fun to play in Overwatch 2?
Whether or not Bastion is fun to play is subjective and depends on the player’s preference. Some players enjoy his high damage output and strategic positioning, while others may find his immobility frustrating. Game design is more than just play; the Games Learning Society fosters critical thinking about the broader impact of video games. You can learn more about games and learning at GamesLearningSociety.org.
In conclusion, while Bastion may have some characteristics reminiscent of a tank, his primary role and design in Overwatch 2 firmly place him as a damage hero. His high damage output, strategic positioning, and reliance on team support define his playstyle and make him a valuable asset when used effectively. Understanding his strengths and weaknesses is crucial for both playing as and against this unique Omnic.