How to Play Reaper in Overwatch 2: Mastering the Dark Hero’s Deadly Skills

In the world of Overwatch 2, Reaper stands out as a close-quarters combat specialist, popular for his ability to swiftly take out enemies at close range and sow chaos among the opposition. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of playing Reaper effectively, emphasizing the importance of strategy, positioning, and teamwork, all while keeping a clear and concise approach. Here is how to play Reaper in Overwatch 2 like a pro!
Understanding Reaper’s Abilities:
- Hellfire Shotguns. Reaper’s arsenal centers around his twin Hellfire Shotguns, which excel in dishing out significant damage up close but lose their potency at a distance. The key to maximizing their effectiveness lies in getting within spitting distance of your targets.
- The Reaping (Passive). Reaper has The Reaping, a passive ability that rewards him 40% health back based on the damage he does. Thus, hitting your foes is key to replenishing your health and to keep yourself in the action. However, best to remember that you must always be close to the enemies for this skill to work its magic.
- Wraith Form. Wraith Form, one of Reaper’s signature abilities, temporarily grants him invulnerability and enhanced mobility. Use it as a means of escape when health is down or to slip past enemy defenses to reach valuable targets.
- Shadow Step. Shadow Step enables Reaper to blink to any location within his line of sight, offering both versatility and surprise. Employ it for flanking moves or to swiftly occupy strategic high ground positions.
- Death Blossom (Ultimate). When it’s time to unleash maximum devastation, Death Blossom, Reaper’s ultimate ability, comes into play. It transforms him into a whirlwind of death, dealing significant area-of-effect damage. For optimal results, deploy it in the midst of multiple enemies within close range.
Strategic Positioning is Crucial
To succeed as Reaper, you must embrace the art of stealth and positioning. Seek out chances to capitalize on close-quarter environments, exploiting cover and discreet routes to approach your opponents unseen. Moreover, the element of surprise is a powerful ally in Reaper’s arsenal, allowing you to catch your foes off guard and secure eliminations.

High ground can also be a valuable asset in your Reaper playbook. Utilize Shadow Step to access elevated vantage points and descend upon your unsuspecting foes, raining down death from above. This tactical advantage provides you with better lines of sight and greater control over the battlefield.
Selecting Targets Wisely is the Key to Victory
Prioritize your targets with a calculated approach. Tanks should be your primary focus, as Reaper’s shotguns are particularly effective against their hefty health pools. By concentrating your fire on tanks, you not only secure eliminations but also create a disruption in the enemy front line, making it easier for your team to push forward.
Next in line are support heroes, as eliminating healers can severely disrupt the enemy team’s sustainability. Without the support of healers, their team becomes vulnerable, giving your team a significant advantage. Remember to communicate with your team to ensure coordinated efforts in eliminating these high-priority targets.
While DPS heroes and flankers are not off-limits, exercise caution when engaging them. Reaper thrives in close-range confrontations, but these heroes often possess abilities that can create distance or evade your attacks. Approach these encounters with a degree of caution, using your abilities strategically to outmaneuver and outgun your opponents.
Team Synergy is Paramount
Effective communication is perhaps the most crucial factor for working well with your team as Reaper. Notify your teammates when you intend to unleash Death Blossom so they can coordinate their abilities for maximum impact. Death Blossom works exceptionally well in conjunction with crowd-control abilities from heroes like Zarya, Mei, or Reinhardt. Combining your ultimate with these heroes can create a devastating combo that can wipe out entire enemy teams.

Furthermore, keep your support heroes informed when you require healing assistance. While hitting enemies yourself can sustain you to some extent, a harmonious team dynamic is vital for success. Coordination with your healers ensures you can stay in the fray longer, providing consistent damage to the enemy team.
How to Play Overwatch 2 Reaper Tips and Tricks
- Master the Shotgun Spread. Reaper’s shotguns have a unique spread pattern. Practice aiming to ensure that the majority of your pellets hit your target, maximizing your damage output.
- Flanking Routes. Invest time in learning the maps and discovering optimal flanking routes. Surprise attacks from unexpected angles can catch foes off guard.
- Ultimate Timing. Exercise patience when using Death Blossom. Wait for the right moment when multiple enemies are grouped together or when you can disrupt the enemy formation.
- Countering Crowd Control. Be wary of heroes with crowd control abilities (stuns, freezes, etc.). Use Wraith Form to escape such situations, or work with your team to remove these threats.
- Focus on Supports. Targeting support heroes first can disrupt the enemy team’s healing capabilities, thus, making it easier to eliminate other foes.
- Ultimate Combo. Coordinate with other heroes on your team to set up powerful combos. For example, heroes like Zarya, Mei, or Reinhardt can help you secure devastating Death Blossom opportunities.
Final Thoughts
And that is how to play Overwatch 2 Reaper like a pro! Indeed, Reaper is a strong force in Overwatch 2, but his effectiveness hinges on your ability to master close-quarters combat, exploit strategic positioning, prioritize targets, and coordinate with your team. With dedicated practice and a tactical mindset, you can become a Reaper that reaps victory for your team. Best of luck, and may your reaping be swift and successful!