Why Cole Cassidy (Formerly McCree) Was So Good in Overwatch
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
McCree, now known as Cole Cassidy, was a formidable force in Overwatch due to a combination of factors: high burst damage, an accessible skill floor with a high skill ceiling, and a kit that, while simple, was incredibly effective in a variety of situations. His Peacekeeper revolver, when wielded effectively, allowed him to shred tanks, eliminate flankers, and even challenge long-range heroes. While his abilities were straightforward, mastering their application in different scenarios was the key to unlocking his full potential.
The Core Strengths That Defined Cole Cassidy
Devastating Burst Damage
The cornerstone of Cole Cassidy‘s strength was his ability to deliver massive burst damage in a short period. This was primarily achieved through his Fan the Hammer (FtH) ability, which rapidly emptied his revolver’s cylinder. While less accurate than his primary fire, FtH was devastating at close range, capable of deleting squishy heroes and melting down tanks who dared to get too close. This made him a potent counter to heroes like Tracer and Genji, who relied on mobility to survive.
Effective Mid-Range Threat
Cole Cassidy‘s primary fire offered consistent, reliable damage at medium ranges. With accurate aim, he could pressure enemies from afar, forcing them to take cover or risk taking significant damage. This made him a versatile pick, able to contribute to fights from various positions on the map. Unlike some damage heroes who excelled only at close or long range, Cole Cassidy could effectively engage targets in the mid-range.
Combat Roll Versatility
Combat Roll wasn’t just a mobility tool; it was integral to Cole Cassidy‘s damage output and survivability. The short dash allowed him to quickly reposition, dodge enemy fire, and close the distance for a Fan the Hammer combo. Crucially, it also reloaded his Peacekeeper, enabling him to immediately follow up his initial burst with additional shots. This allowed him to output a ton of damage within a short period.
High Noon’s Strategic Potential
His ultimate ability, High Noon, while often easy to counter in open areas, could be devastating in the right circumstances. It forced enemies to scatter, creating opportunities for his team to push forward or pick off isolated targets. Skilled players could use High Noon to zone opponents, control chokepoints, or even secure unexpected kills from flanking positions. The zoning and potential for area denial with High Noon was incredibly valuable.
Ease of Learning, Difficulty to Master
Cole Cassidy had a relatively low barrier to entry. His abilities were simple to understand, and new players could quickly grasp the basics of his gameplay. However, mastering him required exceptional aim, tactical positioning, and an understanding of when to use his abilities effectively. This meant that Cole Cassidy could be both a viable pick for beginners and a formidable weapon in the hands of experienced players. This concept of easy to learn, hard to master, is something frequently discussed at the Games Learning Society and other institutions that study how games can be effective teaching tools.
FAQs About Cole Cassidy (Formerly McCree)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about the hero Cole Cassidy, addressing common concerns and providing more in-depth analysis:
1. What is Cole Cassidy‘s (McCree’s) primary role in Overwatch?
Cole Cassidy is a hitscan damage hero, primarily focused on dealing consistent damage at mid-range and providing burst damage at close range. He excels at eliminating high-priority targets and punishing enemies who overextend.
2. What are Cole Cassidy‘s strengths against specific hero types?
He is strong against flankers (Tracer, Genji) due to his burst damage potential, tanks who get too close due to his Fan the Hammer, and squishy supports who are out of position.
3. What are Cole Cassidy‘s weaknesses?
His primary weakness is his limited mobility, which makes him vulnerable to dive compositions and long-range poke. He also struggles against heroes with shields and high health pools at longer ranges.
4. How do you effectively use Cole Cassidy‘s Combat Roll?
Use Combat Roll to reposition defensively, dodge incoming damage, and, most importantly, reload your Peacekeeper to maintain consistent damage output. Be mindful of its cooldown.
5. What is the best way to use Cole Cassidy‘s Fan the Hammer?
Fan the Hammer is most effective at close range against targets with large hitboxes (tanks) or when you need to quickly eliminate a low-health target. Be aware that it is less accurate than your primary fire.
6. How can you improve your aim with Cole Cassidy?
Practice your aim in training mode or custom games. Focus on tracking moving targets and landing headshots. Adjust your sensitivity settings to find what works best for you.
7. What are the best maps for Cole Cassidy?
Maps with plenty of cover and flanking routes tend to favor Cole Cassidy. He excels in areas where he can take advantageous positions and surprise enemies.
8. Who are Cole Cassidy‘s best support pairings?
Supports who can provide healing and damage amplification work well with Cole Cassidy. Heroes like Mercy, Ana, and Baptiste can significantly increase his survivability and damage output.
9. How do you counter Cole Cassidy?
Counter Cole Cassidy with heroes who can outrange him (Widowmaker, Hanzo), dive him (Winston, D.Va), or shield him (Reinhardt, Orisa).
10. What is the optimal sensitivity setting for Cole Cassidy?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The optimal sensitivity depends on your personal preference and playstyle. Experiment with different settings to find what allows you to accurately track targets and land consistent shots.
11. How do you maximize the effectiveness of Cole Cassidy‘s High Noon ultimate?
Use High Noon in flanking positions to surprise enemies, or in chokepoints to force them to scatter. Be aware of enemy cooldowns and try to time your ultimate when they are vulnerable.
12. What is Cole Cassidy‘s (McCree’s) current meta viability?
Cole Cassidy‘s meta viability fluctuates depending on balance changes and the overall team compositions that are prevalent. However, he has generally remained a solid pick due to his consistent damage output.
13. How does Cole Cassidy compare to other hitscan damage heroes?
Compared to other hitscan heroes, Cole Cassidy offers a unique blend of burst damage and mid-range consistency. He excels in situations where he can quickly eliminate targets, but he lacks the long-range poke of Widowmaker or the mobility of Tracer.
14. What are some common mistakes that new Cole Cassidy players make?
Common mistakes include over-relying on Fan the Hammer, poor positioning, and failing to effectively use Combat Roll to reload and reposition.
15. Why was McCree renamed to Cole Cassidy?
The character McCree was renamed to Cole Cassidy following the Activision Blizzard lawsuit and in recognition of the need to separate the character from the real-life individual who inspired his name. This decision aimed to create a more inclusive and respectful gaming environment.
Mastering the Outlaw
Cole Cassidy was, and remains, a compelling hero in Overwatch due to his potent combination of damage output, accessibility, and strategic depth. While his kit may appear simple on the surface, mastering his gameplay requires dedication, practice, and a keen understanding of the game’s mechanics. By understanding his strengths and weaknesses, and by learning to effectively utilize his abilities, players can unlock his full potential and become a formidable force on the battlefield. Studying characters in games like Overwatch can be a great way to learn about game balance and design and resources like the GamesLearningSociety.org can provide helpful insight into how to learn while having fun.