Jumping as Reinhardt in Overwatch could lose you your next game

While Reinhardt’s shield is supposed to protect weaker heroes standing behind him in Overwatch, it turns out that even the most subtle of movements can give opposing teams a vital edge in combat, and change the course of the game.

One of the most popular Tank heroes in Overwatch, Reinhardt’s 1600HP shield is more mobile than any other in the game. While Sigma can quickly recall his barrier and place it down once again for instance, it pales in comparison to Reinhardt and his mobility. 

As an extraordinary highlight on Busan goes to show, however, this mobility can prove to be a major downfall and even cost you entire team fights if you’re not on the ball at all times. 

Widowmaker can often be nullified so long as players are well aware of her position and stand behind cover as much as possible. Yet cheekily enough, the sniper is actually able to bait opposing Rein’s into lowering their shield just enough for a quick headshot.

Throughout the deciding round of a closely contested match on Busan, Reddit user ‘joshkroger’ showcased how teammates can surprisingly be gunned down from afar, even though a shield appears to stand between them and the enemy.

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“Ok, how?” the player questioned, while a teammate simply yelled out in frustration after being taken out of the fight. 

Slowing the clip down to a snail’s pace reveals that Widow can stunningly peak just a hair above the shield. But how exactly is this possible? It turns out that Reinhardt jumping is the reason that particular shot was able to connect. 

Surprisingly enough, Reinhardt actually lowers his shield somewhat each time that he jumps. While it might not appear as such to the naked eye, watching the footage back on repeat unveils the finer movements of his shield throughout the seemingly innocuous animation.

As he bends his legs and prepares for a full extension to boost off of the ground, Rein’s shield tilts ever so slightly towards the floor for a mere fraction of a second. 

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That small window was all the opposing Widowmaker needed to connect their shot and potentially swing the opening team-fight in their favor.

What once appeared to be a completely harmless movement for countless Tank veterans around the world, has now been revealed as a major factor that could legitimately cost you a map.

If you’re looking to protect squishy teammates in your next Overwatch session, keep in mind that Reinhardt’s feet should rarely leave the ground.