Overwatch’s newest hero is a tank named Orisa

This is Orisa, a quadrupedal robot with an automatic projectile cannon for an arm, and she is the latest hero to join the Overwatch roster. Her Protective Barrier is a throwable shield that, although only able to soak up half the damage that Reinhardt’s shield can, can be deployed from afar and be left alone by Orisa once placed, meaning she can continue the fight while protecting allies. She seems to be extremely resilient with her abilities, and will definitely be part of any composition that looks to protect high damage dealers (Bastion, ahem). This quadruped is a first for the competitive shooter, and quite an atypical design for a female character.

Orisa is now already one the PTR, and Kaplan says he is looking forward to continuing to smooth out the character until it is flawless and ready for release.

In addition to the hero announcement, Jeff Kaplan released a developer’s update video to discuss the details of Orisa. Their interview with Efi Oladele hinted at what many assumed would have something to do with the next Overwatch hero.

Halt!: Orisa launches her graviton charge.

Orisa comes into Overwatch as the game is establishing itself as an ongoing hit that is maintaining a strong audience on consoles and PC. Orisa is Overwatch’s 24th character and sixth tank, though she serves a different goal than most of the other tanks in the game. Overwatch players can test Orisa right now in the Public Test Region. It can be destroyed by the enemy team, so you’ll want to make sure it stays protected as you dish out punishment.

Where Orisa is expected to shine is as a protective anchor on the team. And finally, her ultimate, Supercharger, gives a damage buff (similar to Mercy’s ability) to all allies in line of sight.

Sounds like an interesting kit, though you’ll note that unlike Reinhardt (and Winston and D.Va), Orisa does not have any movement abilities. Her alternate fire is basically a mini version of Zarya’s Graviton Surge.