Overwatch 2 is reworking its roster of heroes, as the switch to 5v5 demands several changes for most of the cast. One of the heroes that has had their rework touched on is Mei, though Overwatch 2 fans now have an idea of just how major the change is.
Unlike the Bastion rework where new abilities are being added and some are getting changed so that they work in a new way, Mei is actually having one part of her moveset removed entirely. Specifically, her weapon will no longer freeze enemies with its primary fire. This is a big adjustment to Mei’s attack style, as most Mei players will freeze a target before following up with an icicle headshot to finish them off. Now, that is not possible at all.
While Mei fans not being able to freeze opponents will make them a lot less frustrating to play against, as players will not be immobile for several seconds, those that like Mei are worried that she will be less viable due to this change. Alongside the removal of this defining ability, Blizzard promised Mei would deal more damage. The developer did not make it clear just how much damage would be dealt, though, with pro player Matthew “Super” DeLisi sharing the info in a recent stream.
With Overwatch League players getting to test out an early build of Overwatch 2, Super and several others have seen the new Mei in action. After asking his chat what Mei’s current primary fire damage is in the original game, he is shocked to hear that it is only at 55. This is because in Overwatch 2, Mei deals a shocking 90 DPS with her primary fire. Super says that all Mei players need to do to their opponents is “left click then to death” in the sequel. While some were concerned about Mei being too weak now, the opposite might be true.
Either way, this will take some getting used to for Overwatch fans who main Mei. Right now, most players lean heavily on their icicles, with the Endothermic Blaster’s primary fire being more of a setup move or a way to isolate targets. In the sequel, it seems like it will be just as powerful as the icicles, with it likely exceling at crowd control and dealing damage to grouped up players. While the rest of Mei’s abilities might not be getting altered too much, this significant change to her main weapon instantly gives her a new playstyle.
While Overwatch 2’s eventual beta will give players the chance to try out these reworks and provide feedback, the Mei change has clearly piqued the interest of those that are part of the pro scene. As such, Mei might just end up becoming a top tier hero.
Overwatch 2 is in development for PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One.
Source: Twitch