The MEKA Pilot's Thrusters Make Her the Ultimate Aerial Defender

For a long time, I was not a fan of multiplayer games. I engaged in numerous of them with my friends, but none kept my attention. My aim was poor, and seemed more a liability than help to my teammates. Then, the release of Overwatch in 2016 arrived and introduced me to a character and an ability that's been stuck in my mind ever since.

At first glance, D.Va, an esports star turned pilot who commands a MEKA, wasn’t the sort of character that should have appealed to me. The sniper Widowmaker was closer to my preference, with her gothic look and measured speech. But D.Va possessed the advantage of being my favorite class: a tank. The character that absorbs all that incoming fire while shielding attackers and healers. Additionally, D.Va has dual modes: her out-of-mech state, in which she moves with a blaster, and her mech form, in which she’s seated within her MEKA. This duality make her pretty unique, but there’s something else that makes her stand out among other defenders, and is why I ultimately adored her: her close-quarters and mobility skill, Boosters.

Thrusters represent a skill that lets D.Va (in her MEKA form) launch into the air, providing a velocity increase and allowing her to fly forward for a set distance. Additionally, players may alter course while airborne, choosing to ascend onto a higher level or divert completely and head around obstacles like corners or the objective. It gives D.Va a agility and unrestricted motion that none of the other tanks can really replicate — including Reinhardt with his forward assault. Her Thrusters is brilliant for my playstyle: I prefer to absorb attacks and defend allies, while also being able to get out if it gets gnarly so I can regroup – it makes me feel indestructible, even though this isn't entirely true.

The Thrusters ability isn't solely for travel; it additionally deals harm to foes along the route.

There’s even a damage element to D.Va’s Boosters ability. When opponents obstruct the path as you’re using Boosters, they are knocked back for a set amount of harm. I assure you, there’s nothing more satisfying than eliminating a troublesome Ashe by bopping her on the nose with your MEKA. That’ll teach her to try and snipe you from afar.

D.Va may not be the “best” tank in Overwatch 2 nowadays, particularly with characters like Orisa and Ramattra whose pure defensive skills make them a better pick for present strategies. But she’s also one of the most unique characters I’ve ever played in a competitive title. I don’t think that any a D.Va equivalent, and trust me, following experiences like Marvel Rivals after falling off Overwatch 2, I have sought a replacement for D.Va, and my next Boosters, for a long time. The truth is, with extensive time as her, it seems there isn’t ever going to be as enjoyable and groundbreaking to play as she is. Despite any issues Overwatch 2 might have, hero creation and skills are definitely not included.

• The MEKA Pilot shines at mobility and disruption.
• Her Thrusters provide unmatched aerial control.
• The hero can absorb attacks while creating opportunities for allies.
• Regardless of strategy changes, D.Va stays a beloved choice for distinctive approach.