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Overwatch’s newest hero D.Mon is its most fun tank in years, but she could probably use a few buffs
Overwatch’s new tank hero, D.Mon, is being praised as one of the game’s most enjoyable tanks in years, combining D.Va-like mobility with a shield and energy sword reminiscent of Reinhardt. However, the article argues that although her design is fun and has a strong foundation, she currently lacks the effectiveness needed to compete reliably as a solo tank in five-versus-five matches.
D.Mon’s sword deals 60 damage per swing, below Reinhardt’s output, while her 650-health shield is far weaker than his 1,500-health barrier. Her ranged cannon and Surging Strike mobility offer options but are viewed as less impactful than rival tanks’ abilities; Blizzard’s lead hero designer said earlier versions gave her too much fuel and made her overly able to chase opponents. The author expects balance adjustments and suggests she may be better suited to an off-tank role in six-versus-six.
In short
- D.Mon is highly enjoyable but currently underpowered.
- Her damage, shield and ranged options trail other tanks.
- Balance changes may improve her solo-tank viability.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
D.Mon's damage output and shield durability fall substantially below other main tanks, creating mechanical disadvantages that mobility cannot fully compensate for in five-versus-five competitive play. A balanced roster requires that heroes sharing the same role remain genuinely viable alternatives; otherwise, her enjoyable design becomes a strategic liability for serious players. Targeted buffs would preserve her distinct playstyle whilst ensuring she's a real option rather than a trap choice compared to established tanks.
The case against
D.Mon's modest numbers reflect careful design to balance her superior mobility and the lessons learned from earlier iterations that proved too effective. Direct stat comparison overlooks her unique toolkit and role flexibility; tanks need not be identical to be viable. The meta requires substantial time to develop, and history repeatedly shows that early assessments of new characters misjudge their actual potential once the community optimises strategies and team synergies around them.
Explained simply
Overwatch is a team-based online game in which players choose heroes with different abilities and work together to complete objectives. Tanks are heroes designed to withstand attacks and help protect or create space for their team.
D.Mon is a new tank hero, while D.Va and Reinhardt are established Overwatch tanks with different strengths: D.Va is mobile, and Reinhardt is known for his shield and close-range attacks. The game is generally played five-versus-five, so a tank’s ability to support the team can have a large effect on a match.
Hero abilities are adjusted over time to keep the game balanced. How D.Mon compares with other tanks matters to players choosing a team, and her role may feel different in six-versus-six matches, where teams have an extra player.