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Over many years, I was not a fan of multiplayer games. I played plenty 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 hero and an skill that's remained memorable ever since.

At first glance, D.Va, a gamer girl turned child-soldier who commands a MEKA, wasn’t the sort of character that would attract to me. Widowmaker was closer to my preference, with her dark aesthetic and measured speech. But D.Va possessed the advantage of being the role I prefer: a tank. The one who soaks up all that damage while shielding attackers and support classes. Better yet, D.Va has dual modes: her out-of-mech state, in which she runs around with a gun, and her MEKA configuration, in which she’s strapped into her MEKA. These two forms make her pretty unique, but another feature that sets her apart among other defenders, and is the reason I inevitably fell in love: her close-quarters and mobility skill, Thrusters.

Boosters is an ability that enables the MEKA pilot (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 change directions mid-flight, choosing to ascend onto a higher level or veer entirely and head around obstacles like turns or the objective. It gives D.Va a agility and unrestricted motion that no other defender can really replicate — including Reinhardt with his forward assault. Her Thrusters is ideal for my approach: I prefer to absorb attacks and defend allies, while having the option to retreat if the situation intensifies so I may reassemble – it creates a sense of invincibility, even though this isn't entirely true.

The Thrusters ability isn't solely for movility; it additionally deals damage to enemies along the route.

An offensive component exists to D.Va’s Boosters ability. When opponents obstruct the path as activating Thrusters, they are knocked back for 25 damage. Let me tell you, few things are as gratifying than finishing off a pesky Ashe by striking her directly with the mech. That serves as a lesson to try and snipe you from afar.

D.Va may not be the top defender in Overwatch 2 currently, particularly with characters like certain other tanks 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 multiplayer game. I don’t think that any a D.Va equivalent, and believe me, after playing games like Marvel Rivals after falling off Overwatch 2, I have sought a replacement for D.Va, and my next Boosters, for a long time. In reality, after playing her for years, I feel like no future tank character as enjoyable and groundbreaking to play as D.Va. Despite any issues Overwatch 2 might have, character design and abilities are certainly not among them.

• D.Va shines at mobility and disruption.
• Her Thrusters provide superior flight maneuverability.
• She can soak damage while creating opportunities for her team.
• Regardless of strategy changes, she remains a beloved choice for distinctive approach.