Overwatch Symmetra Changes Revealed in PTR Update

The promised changes for Overwatch’s least loved Support hero Symmetra have finally arrived…at least on Blizzard’s Public Test Realm servers.

There are some other features introduced with the latest PTR update (namely the “Boop!” voiceline for Sombra and the ability to “Stay as Team” following the end of a match) but Symmetra is the focus here. Firstly, she now has a choice of two Ultimates – a teleporter that now has reduced health but recharging shields and a shield generator. The shield generator provides 75 shields to everyone within its range and can even work through walls.

Furthermore, Symmetra now has a Photon Barrier. This is essentially a forward moving shield with roughly 1000 health (according to some reports) that blocks incoming fire. Her main weapon has had its primary fire range slightly increased and you can now put down six turrets initially rather than three. As a whole, this makes Symmetra far more viable as all-round hero rather than in certain situations.

What are your thoughts on the Symmetra changes? Let us know in the comments below or check out game director Jeff Kaplan explaining the reasoning behind the changes in a new developer update video.