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Over many years, I had little interest 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 aid to my squad. Then, the release of Overwatch in 2016 happened and introduced me to a hero and an ability that's remained memorable ever since.

At first glance, D.Va, an esports star turned pilot who commands a MEKA, wasn’t the sort of character that would attract to me. The sniper 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 incoming fire while protecting damage-dealers and support classes. Additionally, D.Va has dual modes: her pilot form, in which she runs around with a gun, and her mech form, in which she’s strapped into her MEKA. These two forms make her quite distinctive, but another feature that sets her apart among other defenders, and is the reason I inevitably fell in love: her melee and movement ability, Thrusters.

Boosters is an ability that lets D.Va (in her MEKA form) propel skyward, giving her a boost of speed and letting her advance through the air for a set distance. Additionally, players may change directions mid-flight, opting to rise onto a higher level or divert completely and navigate past barriers 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 charge ability. D.Va’s Boosters is ideal for my approach: I prefer to absorb attacks and protect my team, while also being able to get out if it gets gnarly so I may reassemble – it makes me feel indestructible, even though that’s never really the case.

The Thrusters ability is not just for travel; it additionally deals harm to foes in its path.

An offensive component exists to D.Va’s Boosters ability. When opponents obstruct the path as you’re using Boosters, you send them flying backwards for 25 damage. Let me tell you, there’s nothing more satisfying than eliminating a troublesome Ashe by striking her directly with the mech. That serves as a lesson to try and snipe you from afar.

The hero might not rank as the top defender in Overwatch 2 nowadays, particularly with characters like Orisa and Ramattra whose pure defensive skills make them a better pick for the current meta. 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 D.Va equivalent, and believe me, after playing games like Marvel Rivals after falling off Overwatch 2, I’ve been looking for my next D.Va, and a similar mobility skill, for years. In reality, after playing her for years, I feel like there isn’t ever going to be as fun and innovative to play as D.Va. For all the faults Overwatch 2 might have, character design and abilities are definitely not included.

• D.Va excels in movement and interference.
• Her Boosters provide unmatched aerial control.
• The hero can soak damage while creating opportunities for allies.
• Regardless of strategy changes, she remains a fan-favorite for her unique playstyle.