The Demise of Double Tank: Why Overwatch Said Goodbye to the Dynamic Duo

Overwatch transitioned from a 2-2-2 composition (two tanks, two damage, two supports) to a 1-2-2 format primarily to address issues of queue times, tank synergy stifling gameplay, and the perceived oppressiveness of double-tank compositions. By reducing the number of required tank players per team, Blizzard aimed to alleviate the long queue times experienced, particularly at lower ranks where tanking wasn’t as popular. Furthermore, the design philosophy shifted towards empowering individual tanks to be more impactful and self-sufficient, rather than relying heavily on synergistic pairings. The perceived stifling meta and “oppressiveness” of multiple tanks contributed to a less dynamic and enjoyable experience for many players, leading to the decision to re-architect the game around a single, impactful tank per team.

The Pre-Overwatch 2 Landscape: A Tank in Every Corner

Before diving into the reasons for the change, it’s crucial to understand the Overwatch landscape prior to the sequel’s release. Overwatch 1 thrived, and suffered, under the 2-2-2 role lock. While role lock did bring about more balanced compositions, it also highlighted some deep-seated imbalances. Queue times for Damage (DPS) heroes skyrocketed because everyone wanted to play them, while the Tank and Support roles often languished in relative unpopularity. This created significant matchmaking challenges, particularly for players looking to jump into a game quickly.

More critically, certain tank synergies became dominant, creating frustrating and predictable metas. For instance, the infamous “GOATS” composition (three tanks, three supports) proved incredibly difficult to counter, leading to stale gameplay at the highest levels. Other strong tank pairings limited team composition options and ultimately hurt the diversity of gameplay.

The perceived “oppressiveness” of double tanks also played a significant role. A team running two coordinated tanks could often control space and pressure the enemy team relentlessly, making it difficult for damage players to find openings and supports to keep their team alive. This led to frustration among players who felt helpless against such compositions. Blizzard hoped that shifting to one Tank would balance the field.

The Overwatch 2 Revolution: A Lone Wolf on the Frontlines

Overwatch 2’s move to one tank was a radical departure from the established formula. This was done with the idea that it might solve the problems plaguing its predecessor. Several factors contributed to this decision:

• Reduced Queue Times: By halving the number of required tank players, Blizzard drastically reduced queue times, particularly for Damage players. The long queue times that plagued Overwatch 1 were largely resolved. This improvement alone justified the change for many players.

• Empowered Tanks: To compensate for the loss of a second tank, the remaining tank heroes received significant buffs and reworks. This increased their individual impact on the battlefield and allowed them to function more effectively as solo frontliners. They became more resilient, dealing more damage, and possessing greater agency.

• Dynamic Gameplay: The shift to one tank promoted a more dynamic and fluid gameplay experience. Without the need to coordinate with another tank, damage players had more opportunities to flank and secure picks, while supports could focus their healing and utility more effectively.

• Addressing Tank Synergy Issues: Eliminating double tank inherently removed the issue of oppressive tank synergies. This allowed for greater diversity in team compositions and strategies.

• Easier Balancing: Balancing the game around one tank proved to be somewhat easier than balancing around multiple tank combinations. Developers can more accurately gauge the impact of changes when only one tank is on the field, as this reduces the number of variables to consider.

The Trade-Offs: Addressing New Challenges

While the one-tank system addressed several key issues, it also created new challenges. The solo tank now carries a heavier burden of responsibility, as they are solely responsible for creating space, protecting their team, and pressuring the enemy. This can be stressful for tank players, as they are often blamed for losses, even when it is beyond their control.

Another challenge is ensuring that all tank heroes are viable in the new system. Some tanks, such as Junker Queen, have struggled to find their footing, while others, such as Orisa, have thrived. Balancing the tank roster to ensure that each hero is effective in a solo tank role is an ongoing process. Some contend that Junker Queen is the worst tank in the game, as she just doesn’t measure up to the other tanks.

The BlizzCon 2023 Reveal and the Future of Tanks

Blizzard continues to refine the tank role in Overwatch 2. The new tank hero revealed at BlizzCon 2023, likely to be Mauga, demonstrates this commitment. The introduction of new heroes with unique abilities and playstyles will continue to shape the meta and provide players with new and exciting options. The newly-revealed Control map Samoa also hints at Mauga.

The decision to remove one tank was a controversial one, but it ultimately addressed several key issues that plagued Overwatch 1. While the new system is not without its challenges, it has resulted in shorter queue times, more dynamic gameplay, and empowered tank heroes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you have 2 tanks in Overwatch 2?

No, Overwatch 2 is designed around a 1-2-2 team composition, meaning only one tank is allowed per team. The days of double tank compositions are, for now, over.

2. Is Overwatch 2 getting a new tank?

Yes! Overwatch 2 confirmed it would be revealing its new hero at BlizzCon 2023 on November 3rd, with Mauga being the most likely candidate. Players can expect to meet the new Overwatch 2 tank hero coming in Season 8.

3. Why are OW2 tank queues so long?

Initially, tank queues were shorter, but with the shift in meta and power dynamics, fewer people desire the role. While initially the intention was for tank queue times to be shorter, Blizzard has noted that long queue times are now because no one wants to play support roles.

4. How many tanks are in Overwatch 2?

There are currently 11 Tanks in Overwatch 2, each with a unique Ultimate that can change a team fight instantly, but some Tank Ultimates are better than others.

5. Who is the weakest tank in Overwatch 2?

Opinions vary, but many players currently consider Ramattra, Junker Queen, and Wrecking Ball to be among the weaker tanks in Overwatch 2. Hog and Doom seem to be the best.

6. Is Junker Queen the worst tank?

Junker Queen is considered by many to be one of the worst tanks. Although she has great abilities, many other tanks are better for the role.

7. Is tank the hardest role in Overwatch 2?

In the end, tank reigned supreme as the game’s “hardest role.” Many other players would agree that tank is the hardest role because of how much influence the one tank has.

8. Why did Overwatch get rid of one tank?

Overwatch got rid of one tank to require less players to fill the tank slot and remove the issue of double stacking shields. Originally, Overwatch 1 had shorter tank queues because of the unpopularity of the role. Also, it reduced the queue times across the board.

9. Did all tanks get nerfed in Overwatch 2?

In the Season 3 update, all tanks received a nerf. Blizzard reveals the patch notes for the big Season 3 update coming to Overwatch 2 that confirms a nerf for all Tanks in certain modes.

10. Is Orisa the best tank?

There is no objective “best” tank. However, Orisa is a very strong and versatile tank who is popular among players. Many players agree that there is almost no reason not to pick Orisa, since she only has one counter, and it’s not even that hard of a counter.

11. Is tank or DPS harder?

The tank role is often considered to be more demanding due to the responsibility of leading the team and controlling space. However, the mechanical skill necessary for DPS can be equally challenging. A player who has memorized their class’s optimal rotation can find the tank role to be easier than DPS.

12. Who is the hardest hero to play in Overwatch 2?

Opinions vary, but many players consider heroes like Tracer, Widowmaker, and Doomfist to be among the most mechanically demanding heroes to play effectively. Also, those such as Lucio and Ana are considered more difficult.

13. Who is the easiest tank hero in Overwatch 2?

Orisa is often considered the easiest Tank to play. She has straightforward abilities and a forgiving weapon.

14. Is OW2 tank stressful?

Yes, playing tank in Overwatch 2 can be extremely stressful. The solo tank is responsible for a lot and faces significant pressure to perform well. It’s too stressful. One mistake, just one, one tiny misstep and you are dead.

15. What tank has the highest win rate in Overwatch 2?

Currently, Reinhardt has the highest win rate among tanks in Overwatch 2. The big man with the hammer is dominant.

The design and evolution of Overwatch continue to teach valuable lessons about game design and player experience. The Games Learning Society provides a great resource for those interested in further exploring these topics. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more!