How To Always Secure A Second Tank A Comprehensive Guide For Overwatch Competitive
Hey guys! Ever feel like you're stuck in the Overwatch comp queue, desperately needing a second tank, but it just never happens? You're not alone! Tank synergy is crucial in Overwatch, and running a solo tank can feel like trying to win a marathon with a sprained ankle. So, how do you increase your chances of having a second tank by your side? Let's dive into some strategies that can help you turn the tides and build a beefier team composition.
Understanding the Tank Role in Overwatch
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s quickly break down what the tank role really means in Overwatch. Many players think of tanks as just big health pools that soak up damage, and while that's part of it, there's so much more to these heroes. Tanks are the backbone of your team, responsible for creating space, protecting teammates, and initiating fights. They are the frontline, dictating the pace and flow of battle. A good tank player understands positioning, cooldown management, and how to synergize with their co-tank and the rest of the team.
There are generally two main types of tanks: Main Tanks and Off-Tanks. Main tanks, like Reinhardt, Orisa, and Winston, are the shield-bearers. They create barriers, control chokepoints, and lead the charge. They're like the quarterbacks of the team, calling the plays and setting the strategy. Off-tanks, such as D.Va, Zarya, and Sigma, are the bruisers. They provide additional damage, peel for teammates, and disrupt the enemy team. They're more flexible and can adapt to different situations, making them excellent partners for main tanks.
The beauty of a double tank composition lies in the synergy between these two roles. A Reinhardt shield combined with a Zarya bubble creates a nearly impenetrable front line. A Winston dive supported by a D.Va matrix can quickly overwhelm the enemy backline. The possibilities are endless, and the impact on your team's survivability and damage output is significant. Understanding the different tank roles and how they complement each other is the first step to consistently securing that second tank in your games. If you're looking to climb the ranks, mastering tank synergies is a game-changer. Think about it – when you have two tanks working together, you're essentially doubling your team's frontline presence, making it much harder for the enemy to break through and get to your squishier damage and support heroes. This added layer of protection allows your teammates to play more aggressively and confidently, knowing they have the space and support they need to make plays.
Furthermore, double tank compositions offer more flexibility in terms of strategy and counter-picks. If the enemy team is running a dive composition, you can counter with a strong frontline like Reinhardt and Zarya. If they're playing a poke composition, you can use a mobile tank duo like Winston and D.Va to disrupt their backline. The ability to adapt your tank lineup to the specific situation is a huge advantage, and it's something that solo tank compositions often struggle to achieve. So, the next time you're queuing up for a competitive game, keep in mind the power of tank synergy and the importance of having that second tank by your side. It could be the key to your next victory.
Communicate Your Intentions Early and Often
Communication, my friends, is key in Overwatch, especially in a team-based environment like Competitive. If you want to increase your chances of getting a second tank, you need to make your intentions clear from the very beginning. Don't wait until the last second during hero selection to plead for a tank partner. Start the conversation as soon as you enter the team chat. A simple, "Hey team, I'm planning on playing [Tank Hero]. Anyone want to go tank with me?" can work wonders.
The psychology behind this is pretty simple: People are more likely to cooperate when they feel like they're part of a plan from the start. By stating your intention to play tank early, you're planting the seed in your teammates' minds. They'll start thinking about potential tank synergies and who might be a good fit to play alongside you. It also gives them time to consider their own roles and how they can best complement the team composition. Don't underestimate the power of positive and proactive communication.
Be specific about which tank you intend to play. Saying "I'll play tank" is good, but saying "I'm thinking of playing Reinhardt" is even better. This gives your teammates a clearer picture of what your plan is and allows them to make more informed decisions about their own hero choices. For example, if you say you're going Reinhardt, another player might be more inclined to pick Zarya or D.Va to synergize with your shield and aggressive playstyle. This level of communication can significantly increase your chances of getting a cohesive and effective tank duo.
Throughout the match, continue to communicate with your tank partner and the rest of the team. Discuss strategies, coordinate cooldowns, and call out enemy positions. The more you communicate, the better you'll be able to work together as a team. And remember, communication isn't just about talking; it's also about listening. Pay attention to what your teammates are saying and be willing to adjust your strategy based on their feedback. A good tank duo is like a well-oiled machine, with each player understanding their role and working in sync with their partner. This level of coordination is only possible with open and consistent communication.
Furthermore, be mindful of your tone when communicating with your team. Positivity and encouragement go a long way in fostering a cooperative environment. Instead of blaming teammates for mistakes, focus on constructive criticism and solutions. A simple, "We can try pushing through the choke together next time" is much more effective than, "Why didn't you follow me?" Remember, you're all working towards the same goal: to win the game. By creating a positive and supportive atmosphere, you'll be more likely to get your teammates on board with your tank duo plan and ultimately increase your chances of success.
Be Flexible and Willing to Switch
Okay, so you've communicated your desire for a second tank, but what if nobody initially bites? Don't despair! Flexibility is your secret weapon in these situations. Overwatch is a game of counters and adaptation, and that applies to hero selection as much as it does to gameplay. If your team is lacking a crucial role, or if the enemy team is running a composition that your chosen tank struggles against, be willing to switch and fill the gap. This demonstrates your commitment to the team's success and makes others more likely to reciprocate by picking a second tank.
Let's say you initially wanted to play Reinhardt, but your team already has a main tank like Orisa. Instead of stubbornly sticking to Reinhardt, consider switching to an off-tank like D.Va or Zarya. These heroes can provide valuable support, peel for your teammates, and synergize well with Orisa's shield. By demonstrating your willingness to adapt, you're showing your teammates that you're a team player, and they'll be more likely to trust your judgment and work with you. This can create a positive feedback loop, where everyone is more willing to compromise and fill the roles that are needed.
Sometimes, the best way to get a second tank is to become the second tank yourself! If you initially locked in a damage or support hero, but your team is struggling with a solo tank, consider switching to a tank to provide the necessary frontline presence. This can be a tough decision, especially if you're more comfortable playing other roles, but it can often be the key to turning the tide of the game. Think of it this way: a well-coordinated tank duo can have a much bigger impact than an extra damage hero who's constantly getting picked off.
Being flexible also means understanding the map and the enemy team's composition. Some maps are better suited for certain tank heroes than others. For example, a map with tight chokepoints like King's Row is ideal for Reinhardt, while a more open map like Junkertown might favor a mobile tank like Winston. Similarly, if the enemy team is running a dive composition, a tank like D.Va can be very effective at peeling for your supports and disrupting their dives. By considering these factors, you can make more informed decisions about which tank hero to play and maximize your impact on the game. So, the next time you're in a hero selection screen, remember to be flexible, consider your team's needs, and be willing to switch roles if necessary. It's a small sacrifice that can make a big difference in your chances of winning.
Be the Change You Want to See: Tank Main Mentality
This might sound a little cheesy, but it's true: If you want to see more double tank compositions, you need to embrace the tank role yourself! Become a tank main, or at least a flex player who's comfortable and confident on multiple tanks. The more people who are willing to play tank, the more likely you are to see balanced team compositions in your games. This isn't just about filling a role; it's about understanding the nuances of tank gameplay, the strategies involved, and the impact a strong tank duo can have on the game.
When you main a tank, you develop a deeper understanding of how the role functions within a team. You learn the ins and outs of different tank matchups, the best strategies for each map, and how to effectively communicate with your team. This expertise not only makes you a more valuable player but also makes you more likely to be trusted by your teammates. When they see that you're a confident and skilled tank player, they'll be more inclined to let you take the lead and trust your decisions. This can create a snowball effect, where your team starts to build around your tank play, leading to more coordinated and successful team compositions.
Even if you don't want to become a full-time tank main, expanding your hero pool to include a few tanks can be incredibly beneficial. Being able to flex onto a tank when your team needs one can be the difference between a frustrating loss and a satisfying victory. Think about it: how many times have you been in a game where nobody wants to play tank, and your team ends up getting rolled by the enemy's well-coordinated tank duo? By being willing to fill that role yourself, you're not only helping your team but also improving your own skills and game sense.
Furthermore, playing tank can give you a new perspective on the game. You'll start to see the battlefield from a different angle, understanding the importance of positioning, cooldown management, and creating space for your teammates. This knowledge can be invaluable, even when you're playing other roles. You'll be better able to anticipate enemy movements, protect your teammates, and make smarter decisions overall. So, if you're looking to improve your Overwatch skills and climb the ranks, consider embracing the tank role. It might just be the change you need to see in your games.
Be a Team Player: Fill What Is Needed
Ultimately, getting a second tank in competitive Overwatch comes down to being a team player. This means putting the team's needs above your own preferences and being willing to fill whatever role is necessary to win. While playing your favorite hero is fun, sometimes the best way to climb the ranks is to prioritize team composition and synergy. This isn't just about picking a tank; it's about creating a balanced and effective team that can work together to achieve victory.
Think of it like building a house: you need a strong foundation, solid walls, and a sturdy roof to create a stable structure. In Overwatch, the tank role is like the foundation, providing the frontline presence and protection that the rest of the team needs to thrive. Without a strong frontline, your damage and support heroes are vulnerable and easily picked off. By filling the tank role, you're essentially laying the foundation for your team's success. This doesn't mean you have to play tank every game, but it does mean being willing to step up when your team needs you.
Being a team player also means being aware of the meta and understanding which heroes are strong in the current patch. While playing off-meta heroes can sometimes work, it's generally more effective to choose heroes that synergize well with your team and can counter the enemy's composition. This is especially true for tanks, as they often dictate the pace and flow of the game. If the enemy team is running a dive composition, a tank like D.Va can be very effective at shutting down their dives. If they're playing a poke composition, a tank like Reinhardt can provide the necessary shield to close the distance and engage.
Finally, being a team player means communicating effectively and fostering a positive atmosphere. Encourage your teammates, offer constructive criticism, and be willing to listen to their suggestions. Remember, you're all working towards the same goal: to win the game. By creating a supportive and collaborative environment, you'll be more likely to get your teammates on board with your plans and work together effectively. So, the next time you're in a competitive game, remember to be a team player, fill what is needed, and prioritize the team's success above your own preferences. It's a mindset that will not only help you get more second tanks but also improve your overall Overwatch experience.
So, there you have it! By understanding the tank role, communicating your intentions, being flexible, embracing the tank main mentality, and being a team player, you can significantly increase your chances of getting a second tank in competitive Overwatch. Now get out there, queue up, and build those beefy compositions!
