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Over many years, I had little interest of online competitive titles. I played plenty of them with my friends, but few held my interest. I was bad at shooting, and felt like more of a hindrance than help to my teammates. Subsequently, 2016’s Overwatch happened and presented me with a character and an skill that's remained memorable ever since.

Initially, D.Va, a gamer girl turned child-soldier who pilots a mech, didn’t seem the type that would attract to me. Widowmaker was closer to my preference, with her gothic look and measured speech. But D.Va had the benefit of being my favorite class: a tank. The one who soaks up all that damage while shielding attackers and support classes. Additionally, D.Va has two forms: her pilot form, in which she moves with a blaster, and her mech form, in which she’s strapped into her MEKA. These two forms make her pretty unique, but there’s something else that sets her apart among other defenders, and is why I ultimately adored her: her melee and movement ability, Thrusters.

Thrusters represent a skill that enables the MEKA pilot (in her MEKA form) propel skyward, giving her a boost of speed and allowing her to fly forward for a set distance. Additionally, players may alter course while airborne, choosing to ascend onto a elevated position or divert completely and navigate past barriers like turns or the payload. It gives D.Va a dynamism and freedom of movement that no other defender can really replicate — not even Reinhardt with his charge ability. D.Va’s Boosters is brilliant for my playstyle: I prefer to absorb attacks and protect my team, while also being able to get out if it gets gnarly so I can regroup – it creates a sense of invincibility, even though that’s never really the case.

The Thrusters ability isn't solely for travel; it also inflicts harm to enemies in its path.

There’s even a damage element to D.Va’s Boosters ability. If enemies get in the way as activating Thrusters, you send them flying backwards for 25 damage. Let me tell you, there’s nothing more satisfying than finishing off a pesky Ashe by bopping her on the nose with your MEKA. That’ll teach her to try and snipe you from afar.

The hero might not rank as the “best” tank in Overwatch 2 currently, particularly with characters like certain other tanks whose raw defensive abilities make them a better pick for present strategies. But she’s also one of the most unique characters I’ve ever played in a multiplayer game. I don’t think there really is a direct counterpart to D.Va, and believe me, after playing games like Marvel Rivals after falling off Overwatch 2, I’ve been looking for a replacement for D.Va, and my next Boosters, for a long time. The truth is, with extensive time as her, I feel like there isn’t ever going to be as enjoyable and groundbreaking to play as D.Va. For all the faults Overwatch 2 might have, hero creation and skills are definitely not included.

• The MEKA Pilot excels in movement and interference.
• Her Boosters provide unmatched aerial control.
• She can soak damage while opening chances for her team.
• Regardless of strategy changes, D.Va stays a beloved choice for distinctive approach.