They Said Console Reaper Can’t Carry 💀

Hearing people say a console Reaper can’t carry always lights a fire in me. That’s probably why I ended up pulling off what felt like the 'biggest play of my life' in a recent game! It’s all about nailing those sneaky flanks, and let me tell you, it makes a massive 'CONSOLE REAPER DIFF!!' when done right. If you’re looking to elevate your Reaper gameplay and silence the doubters, here are some of my go-to flanking strategies. First off, why flank as Reaper, especially on console? Simple: disruption and eliminating key targets. Overwatch is all about creating space and breaking enemy lines. As Reaper, your shotguns are devastating up close, and your abilities, Shadow Step and Wraith Form, are perfect for getting in, doing damage, and getting out. On console, aiming can be trickier, so closing the distance quickly is paramount. My top tip for effective flanking is map knowledge. You need to know the health pack locations and the less-traveled routes. Don't just run straight at the enemy. Look for high ground, side alleys, or even deep drops that lead behind their lines. Sometimes, the most obvious flank route is the least effective because it's watched. Practice on different maps to find those hidden pathways. Timing your abilities is crucial. Use Shadow Step to get into position, not into the middle of the fight. I often use it from a safe distance to appear right behind their supports or a key DPS. Once you're there, quickly identify your target – usually the squishiest or most impactful enemy like an Ana, Mercy, or even a Widowmaker. Unload your clips, aim for the head, and then immediately use Wraith Form to disengage if things get too hot. Don't be greedy! Getting one or two picks and surviving is far better than dying for a third. Another aspect I’ve learned is sound cues. Good headphones are a game-changer. Listen for footsteps, ability sounds, and ultimate callouts. If you hear a McCree setting up his Deadeye, or a Soldier: 76 activating his Tactical Visor, that’s your cue to flank and take them out before they wipe your team. Sometimes, just showing your presence behind the enemy can force them to turn around, distracting them from your front line. And don't forget resource management. Always be aware of your ammo count. Reload before you Shadow Step into a fight. Keep an eye on your Wraith Form cooldown – it's your escape ticket. If it's on cooldown, you need to play much more cautiously or wait for it to be available. Dealing with counters is also part of the flanking game. If they have a Cassidy or Brigitte watching their flanks, you might need to adjust. Sometimes, a full flank isn't possible, and you just need to play more aggressively with your tank. But often, even a quick peek from a flank can force cooldowns or repositioning. If you get caught, Wraith Form out immediately, reposition, and try again from a different angle. Ultimately, being a console Reaper means adapting. We might not have the pinpoint accuracy of PC players, but we can definitely outmaneuver and outthink them. Keep practicing those sneaky routes, master your ability timings, and you'll be making a massive 'Reaper diff' in no time. Trust me, there's nothing more satisfying than proving those critics wrong with a well-executed flank and a team wipe that seals the game!