Is Proper the Best Overwatch Player? A Deep Dive
The question of who reigns supreme in the world of Overwatch is a fiercely debated topic. While definitive pronouncements are always subjective, the argument for Kim “Proper” Dong-hyun as the best Overwatch player is exceptionally strong. His performance, particularly during the 2022 Overwatch League season, was nothing short of phenomenal. While other players possess incredible skills, Proper’s consistency, adaptability, and sheer impact on his team’s success solidify him as a top contender, potentially the best, in the eyes of many analysts and fans. This article delves into why Proper is considered among the elite, exploring his strengths, achievements, and the context within the broader Overwatch competitive scene.
Understanding the Hype: What Makes Proper So Good?
Proper’s reputation isn’t just built on flashy plays; it’s rooted in a combination of technical skill, game sense, and adaptability. He’s often lauded for:
- Mechanical Prowess: His aim is consistently cited as being top-tier. Specifically, his performance with Sojourn’s Railgun made him a nightmare for opponents. The article excerpt explicitly mentions his almost guaranteed one-shot kills.
- Game Sense and Positioning: He seems to be everywhere at once, always in the right place at the right time. This demonstrates a deep understanding of map control, objective positioning, and enemy rotations.
- Hero Flexibility: He can play a wide variety of heroes at an exceptionally high level. This is crucial in a game like Overwatch, where team compositions and counter-picks are essential. The excerpt specifically mentions his flexibility.
- Impact on Team Success: Even in matches where his team, the San Francisco Shock, faced defeat, Proper was often the standout performer. In victories, he typically dominates the game. His individual skill translates directly into team success.
Comparing Proper to Other Legends
While Proper is a relatively newer star, the Overwatch scene is filled with legendary players. Some of the most commonly mentioned include Kim “Fleta” Byung-sun, a decorated DPS player. Fleta’s longevity and diverse hero pool are undeniable strengths. However, Proper’s peak performance during the 2022 season arguably surpasses even Fleta’s best moments.
Other notable contenders include players known for their leadership, strategic thinking, or exceptional skill on specific heroes. Ultimately, comparing players across different eras and roles is challenging. However, Proper’s recent dominance and well-rounded skill set place him firmly in the conversation for the title of best Overwatch player.
The Importance of Context: The Overwatch League and Meta Shifts
The Overwatch League (OWL) is the highest level of professional Overwatch. The game is constantly evolving with balance changes, new heroes, and meta shifts. A player’s ability to adapt to these changes is a key indicator of their long-term success.
Proper has demonstrated remarkable adaptability, quickly mastering new heroes and strategies as they become relevant. This adaptability is a crucial factor in his continued success and a strong indicator that he’s not just a flash in the pan. To further understand the complexities and learning opportunities within competitive gaming, visit the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. The community at GamesLearningSociety.org aims to understand and leverage the educational potential of games.
The Future of Proper’s Legacy
Proper’s career is still relatively young. If he continues to perform at his current level, he has the potential to become one of the greatest Overwatch players of all time. His impact on the game is already undeniable, and he will likely continue to shape the meta and inspire future generations of players.
FAQs About Proper and the Best Overwatch Players
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about Proper and the wider topic of the best Overwatch players:
1. Who is Proper?
Proper (Kim Dong-hyun) is a professional Overwatch player known for his exceptional skill, particularly on DPS heroes. He gained prominence playing for the San Francisco Shock.
2. What team does Proper play for?
As mentioned, Proper notably played for the San Francisco Shock in the Overwatch League.
3. Is Proper the best Sojourn player?
Many consider Proper to be the best Sojourn player due to his incredible accuracy and impact with the hero’s Railgun.
4. How old is Proper?
Based on the provided text, Proper was born on December 1, 2003, making him 19 years old (as of the article’s source data).
5. Who is Fleta?
Kim “Fleta” Byung-sun is another highly regarded Overwatch DPS player, known for his versatility and long career in the Overwatch League.
6. What is the Overwatch League (OWL)?
The Overwatch League (OWL) was the premier professional Overwatch league, featuring city-based teams competing for a championship. It is undergoing changes with the advent of Overwatch Champions Series (OWCS).
7. What heroes is Proper known for playing?
While he is flexible, Proper gained significant recognition for his performance on Sojourn, among other DPS heroes.
8. What makes a player “the best” in Overwatch?
Defining the “best” player is subjective, but factors include mechanical skill, game sense, adaptability, leadership, and impact on team success.
9. How important is hero flexibility in Overwatch?
Hero flexibility is extremely important. The ability to play multiple heroes at a high level allows players to adapt to different team compositions and counter-pick enemy heroes.
10. What is “game sense” in Overwatch?
“Game sense” refers to a player’s understanding of the game’s mechanics, map layouts, enemy rotations, and strategic decision-making. It allows players to anticipate events and make informed plays.
11. What are the highest paying Esports career options?
The highest-earning eSports players often compete in games like Dota 2 and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. As a reference, Johan “N0tail” Sundstein, a Dota 2 player, is mentioned as a top earner. The highest-paid Overwatch player at one point was Kwon “Fielder” Joon.
12. Is Overwatch a difficult game to play professionally?
Yes, Overwatch is a highly competitive game that requires extensive training, dedication, and skill to play at a professional level. The dynamic nature of the game, combined with the need for teamwork and communication, adds to the challenge.
13. What is the minimum salary for an Overwatch League player?
The minimum salary for an Overwatch League player was $50,700 per season (subject to change).
14. How much do Overwatch teams spend per season?
Operating an Overwatch League team costs between $3 million to $5 million per season, covering player salaries, coaching staff, housing, and other expenses.
15. What is the current state of the Overwatch esports scene?
The Overwatch esports scene is currently in flux. The Overwatch League shut down after the 2023 season, paving the way for a new ecosystem of third-party leagues and events.