Whetstone
Heroes of the Storm

Patch 2.57 Updated

Bruiser · Warcraft

Deathwing

The Destroyer

Role
Bruiser
Attack
Melee
Difficulty
Hard
Released
3 Dec 2019
Last patched
28 Sep 2026
Damage
7/10
Utility
7/10
Survivability
10/10
Complexity
8/10

Deathwing is strong against

Score 1–100 for Deathwing's net edge once both kits are weighed (50 = neutral)

  1. Anub'arak Curated
    Why? 3
    • CuratedDeathwing is permanently Unstoppable, so the stuns from Impale and Burrow Charge never land on him and Anub'arak loses most of the lockdown he was picked for.via Aspect of Death, Impale, Burrow Charge
    • TheoryDeathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Anub'arak's summoned units quickly.
    • TheoryDeathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting Anub'arak's Spell Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop.
  2. E.T.C. Curated
    Why? 3
    • CuratedPowerslide's stun, and Mosh Pit's if E.T.C. takes it, do nothing to a permanently Unstoppable Deathwing, so his engage and lockdown are wasted on him.via Aspect of Death, Mosh Pit, Powerslide
    • TheoryDeathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and E.T.C. relies on channelled abilities.
    • TheoryDeathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting E.T.C.'s Physical Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop. E.T.C. must also take Block Party.
  3. Arthas Curated
    Why? 3
    • CuratedDeathwing is permanently Unstoppable, so Howling Blast's root, Frozen Tempest's slows and, if Arthas takes it, Summon Sindragosa's slow never touch him.via Aspect of Death, Howling Blast, Frozen Tempest, Summon Sindragosa
    • TheoryDeathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Arthas's summoned units quickly. Only when Arthas takes Army of the Dead or Legion of Northrend.
    • TheoryDeathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting Arthas's Physical Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop. Arthas must also take Rime.
  4. Blaze Curated
    Why? 3
    • CuratedDeathwing's permanent Unstoppable ignores Jet Propulsion's stun and Oil Spill's slow, the two tools Blaze uses to control a fight.via Aspect of Death, Jet Propulsion, Oil Spill
    • TheoryDeathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting Blaze's Spell Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop. Blaze must also take Juggernaut Plating.
    • TheoryDeathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Blaze relies on channelled abilities. Only when Blaze takes Combustion or Flash Fire.
  5. Mei Curated
    Why? 2
    • CuratedDeathwing is permanently Unstoppable, so Blizzard's stun, Icing's knockback and, if Mei takes it, Ice Wall's trap do nothing to him, leaving her with little but Snow Blind.via Aspect of Death, Blizzard, Icing, Ice Wall
    • TheoryDeathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting Mei's Physical Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop. Mei must also take Skating Away.
  6. Diablo Curated
    Why? 1
    • CuratedShadow Charge and Overpower can't knock back or grab an Unstoppable Deathwing, which removes Diablo's whole combo.via Aspect of Death, Shadow Charge, Overpower
View 11 more
  1. Garrosh 64 Curated Wrecking Ball can't throw an Unstoppable target and, if Garrosh takes it, Warlord's Challenge's taunt doesn't stick either, leaving him no way to control Deathwing.
    1 more reason
    • Garrosh reduces healing received (Body Check), which blunts Deathwing's self-healing in melee range. Only when Garrosh takes Body Check. Deathwing must also take Dragon Soul, Molten Blood, Draconic Might or Skyfall.
  2. Stitches 52 Curated Hook's pull does nothing to a permanently Unstoppable Deathwing, which takes away the pick tool Stitches is drafted for and leaves him only his damage.
    3 more reasons
    • Stitches deals damage based on maximum Health (Serrated Edge), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Stitches takes Serrated Edge.
    • Stitches reduces healing received (Master Hooker), which blunts Deathwing's self-healing in melee range. Only when Stitches takes Master Hooker. Deathwing must also take Dragon Soul, Molten Blood, Draconic Might or Skyfall.
    • Stitches can ignore or remove crowd control (Gas Bag), weakening Deathwing's fear. Only when Stitches takes Gas Bag. Deathwing must also take Bellowing Roar.
  3. Lúcio 51 Curated Deathwing is permanently Unstoppable, so Soundwave and Push Off, Lúcio's only peel, do nothing to him, and his low throughput cannot keep up with Molten Flame.
    2 more reasons
    • Lúcio reduces healing received (Mixing Fire), which blunts Deathwing's self-healing in melee range. Only when Lúcio takes Mixing Fire. Deathwing must also take Dragon Soul, Molten Blood, Draconic Might or Skyfall.
    • Lúcio can ignore or remove crowd control (High Five), weakening Deathwing's fear. Only when Lúcio takes High Five. Deathwing must also take Bellowing Roar.
  4. Kerrigan 69 Theory Deathwing can deny a burst window (Draconic Might), wasting Kerrigan's cooldowns. Only when Deathwing takes Draconic Might.
    3 more reasons
    • Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) can stop Kerrigan in the middle of a dive.
    • Deathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Kerrigan's summoned units quickly. Only when Kerrigan takes Summon Ultralisk.
    • Deathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting Kerrigan's Spell Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop. Kerrigan must also take Psionic Barrier.
  5. Zeratul 68 Theory Deathwing can deny a burst window (Draconic Might), wasting Zeratul's cooldowns. Only when Deathwing takes Draconic Might.
    3 more reasons
    • Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) can stop Zeratul in the middle of a dive.
    • Deathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting Zeratul's Spell Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop. Zeratul must also take Spell Shield.
    • Deathwing can ignore or remove crowd control (Aspect of Death), weakening Zeratul's Time Stop. Only when Zeratul takes Void Prison.
  6. Azmodan 65 Theory Deathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Azmodan's summoned units quickly.
    1 more reason
    • Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Azmodan relies on channelled abilities.
  7. Genji 65 Theory Deathwing can deny a burst window (Draconic Might), wasting Genji's cooldowns. Only when Deathwing takes Draconic Might.
    2 more reasons
    • Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) can stop Genji in the middle of a dive.
    • Deathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting Genji's Spell Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop. Genji must also take Cyber Shield.
  8. Jaina 65 Theory Deathwing can deny a burst window (Draconic Might), wasting Jaina's cooldowns. Only when Deathwing takes Draconic Might.
    2 more reasons
    • Deathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Jaina's summoned units quickly. Only when Jaina takes Summon Water Elemental.
    • Deathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting Jaina's Physical Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop. Jaina must also take Frost Armor.
  9. Kel'Thuzad 65 Theory Deathwing can deny a burst window (Draconic Might), wasting Kel'Thuzad's cooldowns. Only when Deathwing takes Draconic Might.
    2 more reasons
    • Deathwing can ignore or remove crowd control (Aspect of Death), weakening Kel'Thuzad's stun.
    • Deathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting Kel'Thuzad's Physical Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop. Kel'Thuzad must also take Armor of the Archlich.
  10. Li Li 65 Theory Deathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Li Li's summoned units quickly.
    1 more reason
    • Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Li Li relies on channelled abilities.
  11. Li-Ming 65 Theory Deathwing can deny a burst window (Draconic Might), wasting Li-Ming's cooldowns. Only when Deathwing takes Draconic Might.
    2 more reasons
    • Deathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting Li-Ming's Spell Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop. Li-Ming must also take Force Armor.
    • Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Li-Ming relies on channelled abilities. Only when Li-Ming takes Disintegrate.
33 more below the bar

Weaker mechanical edges

Generic rule matches with no hand-written matchup behind them: scoring under 65, or past the 8 strongest.

  1. Rexxar 65 Theory Deathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Rexxar's summoned units quickly.
  2. Stukov 65 Theory Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities.
  3. Mal'Ganis 64 Theory Deathwing can ignore or remove crowd control (Aspect of Death), weakening Mal'Ganis's sleep.
  4. Nova 63 Theory Deathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  5. Xal'atath 63 Theory Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Xal'atath relies on channelled abilities.
  6. Abathur 62 Theory Deathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Abathur's summoned units quickly.
  7. Gul'dan 62 Theory Deathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting Gul'dan's Spell Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop. Gul'dan must also take Fel Armor.
  8. Imperius 62 Theory Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Imperius relies on channelled abilities.
  9. Qhira 62 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) can stop Qhira in the middle of a dive.
  10. Chromie 61 Theory Deathwing can deny a burst window (Draconic Might), wasting Chromie's cooldowns. Only when Deathwing takes Draconic Might.
  11. Valeera 61 Theory Deathwing can deny a burst window (Draconic Might), wasting Valeera's cooldowns. Only when Deathwing takes Draconic Might.
  12. Alarak 60 Theory Deathwing can deny a burst window (Draconic Might), wasting Alarak's cooldowns. Only when Deathwing takes Draconic Might.
  13. Greymane 59 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) can stop Greymane in the middle of a dive.
  14. Kharazim 59 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) can stop Kharazim in the middle of a dive.
  15. Malfurion 59 Theory Deathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Malfurion's summoned units quickly. Only when Malfurion takes Vengeful Roots.
  16. Probius 59 Theory Deathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Probius's summoned units quickly.
  17. Samuro 59 Theory Deathwing clears waves quickly (Incinerate, Onslaught), so Samuro's lane pressure buys less.
  18. Tassadar 59 Theory Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Tassadar relies on channelled abilities.
  19. Murky 58 Theory Deathwing can deny a burst window (Draconic Might), wasting Murky's cooldowns. Only when Deathwing takes Draconic Might.
  20. Anduin 57 Theory Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Anduin relies on channelled abilities.
  21. Nazeebo 57 Theory Deathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Nazeebo's summoned units quickly.
  22. Ragnaros 57 Theory Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Ragnaros relies on channelled abilities.
  23. Whitemane 57 Theory Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Whitemane relies on channelled abilities.
  24. Brightwing 56 Theory Deathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting Brightwing's Spell Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop.
  25. Dehaka 56 Theory Deathwing clears waves quickly (Incinerate, Onslaught), so Dehaka's lane pressure buys less.
  26. Junkrat 56 Theory Deathwing can deny a burst window (Draconic Might), wasting Junkrat's cooldowns. Only when Deathwing takes Draconic Might.
  27. Deckard 54 Theory Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Deckard relies on channelled abilities.
  28. Fenix 53 Theory Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Fenix relies on channelled abilities.
  29. Thrall 53 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) can stop Thrall in the middle of a dive.
  30. Cassia 51 Theory Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Cassia relies on channelled abilities.
  31. Hanzo 51 Theory Deathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Hanzo relies on channelled abilities.
  32. Orphea 51 Theory Deathwing can deny a burst window (Draconic Might), wasting Orphea's cooldowns. Only when Deathwing takes Draconic Might.
  33. Xul 51 Theory Deathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Xul's summoned units quickly.

Deathwing is weak against

Score 1–100 for their net edge over Deathwing's kit

  1. Malthael Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedReaper's Mark ticks 2% of max health per second, and because Deathwing ignores his allies' heals and shields, nothing on his team offsets it.via Reaper's Mark, Aspect of Death
    • TheoryMalthael deals damage based on maximum Health (Reaper's Mark, Throwing Shade), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest.
    • TheoryMalthael reduces healing received (Touch of Death), which blunts Deathwing's self-healing in melee range. Only when Malthael takes Touch of Death. Deathwing must also take Dragon Soul, Molten Blood, Draconic Might or Skyfall.
    • TheoryMalthael can ignore or remove crowd control (Inevitable End), weakening Deathwing's fear. Only when Malthael takes Inevitable End. Deathwing must also take Bellowing Roar.
  2. Lunara Curated
    Why? 3
    • CuratedNature's Toxin keeps ticking for up to 9 seconds, and Dragonflight can't start for 6 seconds after damage, so Lunara stops Deathwing from flying out to reset.via Nature's Toxin, Crippling Spores, Dragonflight
    • TheoryLunara deals damage based on maximum Health (Invigorating Spores), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Lunara takes Invigorating Spores.
    • TheoryLunara can ignore or remove crowd control (Abolish Magic), weakening Deathwing's fear. Only when Lunara takes Abolish Magic. Deathwing must also take Bellowing Roar.
  3. Tychus Curated
    Why? 6
    • CuratedEach Minigun-boosted attack adds 2.5% of maximum health against a big target that friendly healers cannot top up.via Minigun, Aspect of Death
    • CuratedDeathwing is permanently Unstoppable so CC can't stop him, but Minigun's max-Health bonus chews through his 2750 Health and knocks off Armor Plates as it goes.
    • TheoryTychus deals damage based on maximum Health (Minigun, Titan Grenade), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest.
    • TheoryDeathwing can interrupt channels with stun (Onslaught), and Tychus relies on channelled abilities.
    • TheoryDeathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Tychus's summoned units quickly. Only when Tychus takes Drakken Laser Drill.
    • TheoryDeathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting Tychus's Spell Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop. Tychus must also take Neosteel Coating.
  4. Zagara Curated
    Why? 5
    • CuratedDevouring Maw works on Unstoppable enemies, making it one of the few ways to pull Deathwing out of a fight for 4 seconds. Only when Zagara takes Devouring Maw (level 10).via Devouring Maw, Aspect of Death
    • CuratedDevouring Maw works on Unstoppable enemies, making it one of the few disables that affects Deathwing, who is permanently Unstoppable. Only when Zagara takes Devouring Maw (level 10).
    • TheoryZagara deals damage based on maximum Health (Corrosive Saliva), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Zagara takes Corrosive Saliva.
    • TheoryDeathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Zagara's summoned units quickly.
    • TheoryDeathwing reduces enemy Armor (Death Drop), offsetting Zagara's Spell Armor. Only when Deathwing takes Death Drop. Zagara must also take Spell Shield.
  5. D.Va Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryD.Va deals damage based on maximum Health (Rush-down), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when D.Va takes Rush-down.
    • TheoryD.Va reduces healing received (Aggression Matrix), which blunts Deathwing's self-healing in melee range. Only when D.Va takes Aggression Matrix. Deathwing must also take Dragon Soul, Molten Blood, Draconic Might or Skyfall.
    • TheoryD.Va can ignore or remove crowd control (Bunny Hop), weakening Deathwing's fear. Only when D.Va takes Bunny Hop. Deathwing must also take Bellowing Roar.
  6. Leoric Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryLeoric deals damage based on maximum Health (Drain Hope, Crushing Hope), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest.
    • TheoryLeoric can ignore or remove crowd control (Wraith Walk, March of the Black King), weakening Deathwing's fear. Only when Deathwing takes Bellowing Roar.
View 3 more
  1. Rehgar 67 Theory Rehgar deals damage based on maximum Health (Hunger of the Wolf), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Rehgar takes Hunger of the Wolf.
    2 more reasons
    • Rehgar reduces healing received (Purification), which blunts Deathwing's self-healing in melee range. Only when Rehgar takes Purification. Deathwing must also take Dragon Soul, Molten Blood, Draconic Might or Skyfall.
    • Rehgar can ignore or remove crowd control (Purge), weakening Deathwing's fear. Only when Deathwing takes Bellowing Roar.
  2. Ana 65 Theory Ana deals damage based on maximum Health (Night Terrors), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Ana takes Night Terrors.
    1 more reason
    • Ana reduces healing received (Biotic Grenade), which blunts Deathwing's self-healing in melee range. Only when Deathwing takes Dragon Soul, Molten Blood, Draconic Might or Skyfall.
  3. Varian 65 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
    1 more reason
    • Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which blunts Deathwing's self-healing in melee range. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike. Deathwing must also take Dragon Soul, Molten Blood, Draconic Might or Skyfall.
16 more below the bar

Weaker mechanical edges

Generic rule matches with no hand-written matchup behind them: scoring under 65, or past the 8 strongest.

  1. Gazlowe 62 Theory Gazlowe deals damage based on maximum Health (Hyperfocus Coils, Overklock), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Gazlowe takes Hyperfocus Coils or Overklock.
  2. Hogger 62 Theory Hogger deals damage based on maximum Health (Headbanger), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Hogger takes Headbanger.
  3. Raynor 62 Theory Raynor deals damage based on maximum Health (Bounty Hunter), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Raynor takes Bounty Hunter.
  4. Tyrande 62 Theory Tyrande deals damage based on maximum Health (Empower), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Tyrande takes Empower.
  5. Valla 59 Theory Valla deals damage based on maximum Health (Manticore), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Valla takes Manticore.
  6. Sylvanas 57 Theory Sylvanas deals damage based on maximum Health (Overwhelming Affliction), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Sylvanas takes Overwhelming Affliction.
  7. Cho'gall 55 Theory Cho'gall deals damage based on maximum Health (Uppercut, Searing Shadows), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Cho'gall takes Uppercut or Searing Shadows.
  8. Zul'jin 55 Theory Zul'jin deals damage based on maximum Health (No Mercy!), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Zul'jin takes No Mercy!.
  9. Artanis 53 Theory Artanis deals damage based on maximum Health (Titan Killer), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Artanis takes Titan Killer.
  10. Kael'thas 53 Theory Kael'thas deals damage based on maximum Health (Burned Flesh), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Kael'thas takes Burned Flesh.
  11. Sonya 53 Theory Sonya deals damage based on maximum Health (Giant Slammer), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Sonya takes Giant Slammer.
  12. The Lost Vikings 53 Theory The Lost Vikings deals damage based on maximum Health (Nordic Attack Squad), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest.
  13. Yrel 53 Theory Yrel deals damage based on maximum Health (Templar's Verdict), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Yrel takes Templar's Verdict.
  14. Lt. Morales 52 Theory Lt. Morales deals damage based on maximum Health (Bedside Manner), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Lt. Morales takes Bedside Manner.
  15. Maiev 51 Theory Maiev deals damage based on maximum Health (Vengeful Knives), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Maiev takes Vengeful Knives.
  16. Tracer 51 Theory Tracer deals damage based on maximum Health (Quantum Spike), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Tracer takes Quantum Spike.

Deathwing works well with

Score 1–100 for how well the kits combine

  1. Kel'Thuzad Curated
    Why? 3
    • CuratedFrost Blast roots its targets for 2 seconds, enough for Molten Flame's delayed stream to hit them. Only when Kel'Thuzad takes Frost Blast (level 10).via Frost Blast, Molten Flame
    • TheoryDeathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Kel'Thuzad's burst.
    • TheoryDeathwing holds the front line, giving Kel'Thuzad room to deal damage from behind it.
  2. Jaina Curated
    Why? 2
    • CuratedRing of Frost roots for 3 seconds, covering Molten Flame's 1.5-second windup so the whole stream lands. Only when Jaina takes Ring of Frost (level 10).via Ring of Frost, Molten Flame
    • TheoryDeathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Jaina's burst.
  3. Mei Curated
    Why? 1
    • CuratedIce Wall traps heroes for 2.5 seconds right in front of Deathwing, setting up Molten Flame and Onslaught. Only when Mei takes Ice Wall (level 10).via Ice Wall, Molten Flame, Onslaught
  4. Chromie Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryDeathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Chromie's burst.
    • TheoryDeathwing holds the front line, giving Chromie room to deal damage from behind it.
  5. Genji Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryDeathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Genji's burst.
    • TheoryDeathwing's stun (Onslaught) lets Genji dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  6. Kael'thas Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryDeathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Kael'thas's burst.
    • TheoryDeathwing holds the front line, giving Kael'thas room to deal damage from behind it.
View 4 more
  1. Kerrigan 69 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Kerrigan's burst.
    1 more reason
    • Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) lets Kerrigan dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  2. Tracer 69 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Tracer's burst.
    1 more reason
    • Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) lets Tracer dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  3. Valeera 69 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Valeera's burst.
    1 more reason
    • Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) lets Valeera dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  4. Zeratul 69 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Zeratul's burst.
    1 more reason
    • Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) lets Zeratul dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
33 more below the bar

Weaker mechanical edges

Generic rule matches with no hand-written matchup behind them: scoring under 65, or past the 8 strongest.

  1. Alarak 62 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Alarak's burst.
  2. Hanzo 62 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Hanzo's burst.
  3. Junkrat 62 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Junkrat's burst.
  4. Li-Ming 62 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Li-Ming's burst.
  5. Murky 62 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Murky's burst.
  6. Nova 62 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  7. Orphea 62 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Orphea's burst.
  8. Probius 62 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Probius's burst.
  9. Tassadar 62 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Tassadar's burst.
  10. Xal'atath 62 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Xal'atath's burst.
  11. Ana 57 Theory Deathwing holds the front line, giving Ana room to deal damage from behind it.
  12. Anduin 57 Theory Deathwing holds the front line, giving Anduin room to deal damage from behind it.
  13. Artanis 57 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) lets Artanis dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  14. Azmodan 57 Theory Deathwing holds the front line, giving Azmodan room to deal damage from behind it.
  15. Deckard 57 Theory Deathwing holds the front line, giving Deckard room to deal damage from behind it.
  16. Gazlowe 57 Theory Deathwing holds the front line, giving Gazlowe room to deal damage from behind it.
  17. Greymane 57 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) lets Greymane dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  18. Gul'dan 57 Theory Deathwing holds the front line, giving Gul'dan room to deal damage from behind it.
  19. Illidan 57 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) lets Illidan dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  20. Kharazim 57 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) lets Kharazim dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  21. Lt. Morales 57 Theory Deathwing holds the front line, giving Lt. Morales room to deal damage from behind it.
  22. Maiev 57 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) lets Maiev dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  23. Mephisto 57 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) lets Mephisto dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  24. Nazeebo 57 Theory Deathwing holds the front line, giving Nazeebo room to deal damage from behind it.
  25. Qhira 57 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) lets Qhira dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  26. Raynor 57 Theory Deathwing holds the front line, giving Raynor room to deal damage from behind it.
  27. Sgt. Hammer 57 Theory Deathwing holds the front line, giving Sgt. Hammer room to deal damage from behind it.
  28. Sonya 57 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) lets Sonya dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  29. Stukov 57 Theory Deathwing holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  30. The Butcher 57 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) lets The Butcher dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  31. Thrall 57 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) lets Thrall dive onto a target that cannot walk away.
  32. Whitemane 57 Theory Deathwing holds the front line, giving Whitemane room to deal damage from behind it.
  33. Zul'jin 57 Theory Deathwing holds the front line, giving Zul'jin room to deal damage from behind it.

Spot a wrong or missing matchup? Suggest a correction with the mechanical reason; accepted notes land in the theory layer for everyone.

Best maps for Deathwing

Score 1–100 from how the kit fits each map's layout and objective (50 = neutral)

  1. Hanamura Temple Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryDeathwing can stand on Hanamura Temple's payload and absorb pressure.
    • TheoryDeathwing can siege structures (Cataclysm), which adds to Hanamura Temple's objective pressure.
    • TheoryDeathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) helps hold lanes against Hanamura Temple's pushing objective.
  2. Blackheart's Bay Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryDeathwing can siege structures (Cataclysm), which adds to Blackheart's Bay's objective pressure.
    • TheoryDeathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) helps hold lanes against Blackheart's Bay's pushing objective.
  3. Sky Temple Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryDeathwing can siege structures (Cataclysm), which adds to Sky Temple's objective pressure.
    • TheoryDeathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) helps hold lanes against Sky Temple's pushing objective.
  4. Towers of Doom Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryDeathwing can siege structures (Cataclysm), which adds to Towers of Doom's objective pressure.
    • TheoryDeathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) helps hold lanes against Towers of Doom's pushing objective.
  5. Alterac Pass Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryDeathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) helps hold lanes against Alterac Pass's pushing objective.
  6. Battlefield of Eternity Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryDeathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) helps hold lanes against Battlefield of Eternity's pushing objective.
View 11 more
  1. Braxis Holdout 55 Theory Deathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) helps hold lanes against Braxis Holdout's pushing objective.
  2. Braxis Outpost 55 Theory Deathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) holds Braxis Outpost's single lane.
  3. Dragon Shire 55 Theory Deathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) helps hold lanes against Dragon Shire's pushing objective.
  4. Garden of Terror 55 Theory Deathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) helps hold lanes against Garden of Terror's pushing objective.
  5. Haunted Mines 55 Theory Deathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) helps hold lanes against Haunted Mines's pushing objective.
  6. Industrial District 55 Theory Deathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) holds Industrial District's single lane.
  7. Infernal Shrines 55 Theory Deathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) helps hold lanes against Infernal Shrines's pushing objective.
  8. Lost Cavern 55 Theory Deathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) holds Lost Cavern's single lane.
  9. Silver City 55 Theory Deathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) holds Silver City's single lane.
  10. Tomb of the Spider Queen 55 Theory Deathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) helps hold lanes against Tomb of the Spider Queen's pushing objective.
  11. Volskaya Foundry 55 Theory Deathwing's waveclear (Incinerate, Onslaught) helps hold lanes against Volskaya Foundry's pushing objective.

All maps

Talents by level

  1. 1

    • Dragon Soul W

      Destroyer: Incinerate heals Deathwing for 100% of the damage dealt to enemy Heroes. World Breaker: Lava Burst's explosion damage heals Deathwing for 200% of the damage dealt to enemy Heroes.

    • Molten Blood Trait

      While Deathwing has 3 or more Armor Plates, he heals for 0.6% of his maximum Health per second.

    • Draconic Might Trait

      Deathwing's Basic Attacks against enemy Heroes heal him for 25% of the damage dealt. Upon losing an Armor Plate, Deathwing becomes Protected for 0.75 seconds.

  2. 4

    • Infernus Q

      Increase the damage of Molten Flame against enemy Heroes by 25%. Increase this damage bonus to 75% when Molten Flame is cast at 75 Energy or higher.

    • Heat Wave W

      Destroyer: After hitting an enemy Hero with Incinerate, Deathwing deals 18 (+4% per level) damage per second to all nearby enemies for the next 9 seconds. Stacks up to 3 times. World Breaker: Increase the explosion damage of Lava Burst by 150%.

    • Dragon's Ire Trait

      While Deathwing has 3 or fewer Armor Plates, his damage is increased by 25%.

  3. 7

    • Firestorm Z

      Reduce the cooldown of Deathwing's landing Abilities by 3 seconds. When Deathwing lands, he drops 7 meteors near the landing area, dealing 77 (+4% per level) damage to enemies hit. Meteors prioritize landing on Heroes, otherwise they fall randomly in the area.

    • Death Drop Z

      Hitting an enemy Hero with Destroyer or World Breaker's landing damage reduces their Spell Armor by 15 for 4 seconds and Deathwing's Basic Ability cooldowns by 2 seconds.

    • Skyfall E

      After using Dragonflight, Deathwing can drop meteors anywhere within vision dealing 58 (+4% per level) damage to enemies in the area. Has 3 charges. If a Hero is hit, Deathwing heals for 3% of his maximum Health.

  4. 10

    • Burn Beneath My Shadow Heroic

      When an enemy Fort or Keep is destroyed the cooldown of Cataclysm is reset. Cataclysm's periodic damage is increased by 80%.

    • Bellowing Roar Active

      After 1 second, Deathwing unleashes a mighty roar, dealing 25 (+4% per level) damage to nearby Heroes and causing them to run in Fear for 1.5 seconds.

  5. 13

    • Wicked Inferno Q

      Molten Flame's Energy cost per second is reduced by 10. After using Molten Flame, Deathwing gains 15 Energy over 3 seconds.

    • Ruination E

      Destroyer: The bite from Onslaught now Slows by 60% for 1.5 seconds. World Breaker: Reduce Earth Shatter's cooldown by 6 seconds and its Energy cost by 10.

    • Fire and Fury Passive

      Basic Attacks against Rooted, Slowed, or Stunned enemy Heroes deal 40% additional damage and reduce the cooldowns of Deathwing's Basic Abilities by 0.5 seconds.

  6. 16

    • Conflagration Q

      Dealing 320 (+4% per level) damage with Molten Flame to enemy Heroes within 4 seconds causes them to burn for an additional 100 (+4% per level) damage over 4 seconds. While burning, they explode every 1 second, dealing 80 (+4% per level) damage to all nearby enemies.

    • Gaze Onto Destruction Z

      Hitting Heroes with Destroyer or World Breaker's landing causes their damage to be reduced by 75% and Slows them by 40% for 3.5 Seconds.

    • Elementium Plating Active

      Activate to gain a Shield equal to 30% of Deathwing's missing Health for 8 seconds. While the Shield holds, Deathwing regenerates 2% of his maximum Health per second. When the Shield expires or is destroyed, Deathwing regains Armor Plates appropriate for his new Health. The Shield and effect end immediately if Deathwing uses Dragonflight.

  7. 20

    • Stood in the Fire Heroic

      Enemy Heroes are Slowed by 40% while standing in scorched ground, and its duration is increased by 50%.

    • Arrival of a God Z

      Destroyer or World Breaker's landing damage is increased by 400%. Deathwing also gains the benefits of all of his level 7 talents.

    • Destroyer's Rampage Trait

      For the next 4 seconds after landing in Destroyer form, Deathwing's damage is increased by 40% and his Basic Ability cooldowns recharge 50% faster. Damaging Heroes refreshes this effect.

  • Aspect of Death D Trait

    Deathwing is fitted with 4 Armor Plates which grant 10 Armor each. Every 25% Health lost causes Deathwing to lose a plate. Plates are only restored when Dragonflight is used, based on the amount of Health Deathwing has when landing. Deathwing is also a mighty Dragon Aspect who is permanently Unstoppable and deals 100% additional Spell Damage to Heroes, but views his allies with contempt and ignores any of their friendly effects.

  • Molten Flame Q Ability

    3 s cooldown 10 Energy

    After 1.5 seconds, Deathwing breathes a stream of flame, dealing 20 (+4% per level) damage every 0.125 seconds. Drains 30 Energy per second.

  • Incinerate W Ability

    7 s cooldown 30 Energy

    After 0.75 seconds, Deathwing flaps his wings, dealing 100 (+4% per level) damage to nearby enemies. World Breaker: Lava Burst Create a lava pool that damages and Slows

  • Onslaught E Ability

    6 s cooldown 20 Energy

    After 0.5 seconds, Deathwing lunges in a direction dealing 60 (+4% per level) damage to enemies and Slowing them by 35% for 2 seconds. Deathwing bites enemies at the end of the lunge, dealing an additional 120 (+4% per level) damage. World Breaker: Earth Shatter Damage and Stun enemies in two lines

  • Cataclysm R Heroic

    90 s cooldown

    After 2 seconds, Deathwing flies in the targeted direction, dealing 90 (+4% per level) damage on impact and leaving scorched ground that deals 36 (+4% per level) damage a second. Lasts 6 seconds. Quest: Hit Heroes with Molten Flame to grant 1 stack. Quest: Score Takedowns to grant 50 stacks. Mythic Reward: After reaching 2000 stacks, Deathwing brings on the Hour of Twilight. Cataclysm's periodic damage to Structures is increased by 2500%.

  • Dragonflight Z Mount

    20 s cooldown

    After 3 seconds, fly into the sky, becoming Immune to all effects and gaining 2.5% Health per second. Once cast, this ability cannot be interrupted. Cannot be cast for 6 seconds after taking damage, Basic Attacking or casting an Ability.

Mechanics tags

What the theory layer reads from Deathwing's kit. Each tag shows the ability or talent text that produced it; curated notes cover play-style traits the text cannot show.

Crowd control

Fear
Talent Bellowing Roar “…unleashes a mighty roar, dealing 25 damage to nearby Heroes and causing them to run in Fear for 1.5 seconds.”
Slow
Ability Incinerate “Create a lava pool that damages and Slows”
Ability Onslaught “After 0.5 seconds, Deathwing lunges in a direction dealing 60 damage to enemies and Slowing them by 35% for 2 seconds.”
Talent Ruination “Destroyer: The bite from Onslaught now Slows by 60% for 1.5 seconds.”
Talent Gaze Onto Destruction “…Destroyer or World Breaker's landing causes their damage to be reduced by 75% and Slows them by 40% for 3.5 Seconds.”
Stun
Ability Onslaught “Damage and Stun enemies in two lines”

Defense and mobility

Dash
Ability Onslaught “After 0.5 seconds, Deathwing lunges in a direction dealing 60 damage to enemies and Slowing them by 35% for 2 seconds.”
Invulnerable
Talent Draconic Might “Upon losing an Armor Plate, Deathwing becomes Protected for 0.75 seconds.”
Self-healing
Talent Dragon Soul “Destroyer: Incinerate heals Deathwing for 100% of the damage dealt to enemy Heroes.”
Talent Molten Blood “While Deathwing has 3 or more Armor Plates, he heals for 0.6% of his maximum Health per second.”
Talent Draconic Might “Deathwing's Basic Attacks against enemy Heroes heal him for 25% of the damage dealt.”
Talent Skyfall “If a Hero is hit, Deathwing heals for 3% of his maximum Health.”
Shields
Talent Elementium Plating “Activate to gain a Shield equal to 30% of Deathwing's missing Health for 8 seconds.”
Unstoppable
Ability Aspect of Death “…is also a mighty Dragon Aspect who is permanently Unstoppable and deals 100% additional Spell Damage to Heroes,…”

Damage and macro

Area damage
Ability Incinerate “After 0.75 seconds, Deathwing flaps his wings, dealing 100 damage to nearby enemies.”
Ability Onslaught “After 0.5 seconds, Deathwing lunges in a direction dealing 60 damage to enemies and Slowing them by 35% for 2 seconds.”
Talent Heat Wave “…an enemy Hero with Incinerate, Deathwing deals 18 damage per second to all nearby enemies for the next 9 seconds.”
Talent Firestorm “When Deathwing lands, he drops 7 meteors near the landing area, dealing 77 damage to enemies hit.”
Armor shred
Talent Death Drop “…or World Breaker's landing damage reduces their Spell Armor by 15 for 4 seconds and Deathwing's Basic…”
Damage over time
Talent Conflagration “…with Molten Flame to enemy Heroes within 4 seconds causes them to burn for an additional 100 damage over 4 seconds.”
Siege
Ability Cataclysm “Cataclysm's periodic damage to Structures is increased by 2500%.”
Curated note Cataclysm's scorched ground and Burn Beneath My Shadow let him take structures down quickly.
Waveclear
Ability Incinerate “After 0.75 seconds, Deathwing flaps his wings, dealing 100 damage to nearby enemies.”
Ability Onslaught “After 0.5 seconds, Deathwing lunges in a direction dealing 60 damage to enemies and Slowing them by 35% for 2 seconds.”

Play-style traits

Frontline
Curated note Big health, up to 40 Armor from his plates and permanent Unstoppable let him walk into the enemy team without being moved.
  1. Heroes of the Storm Live Patch Notes, 28 Sep 2026 Patch Changed

    2 other changes

    • ChangeOnslaught: New ability.Game data
    • ChangeLava Burst: Ability removed.Game data
  2. Heroes of the Storm Balance Patch Notes, 11 May 2026 Balance update Mixed

    1 buff, 1 nerf

    • BuffMolten Flame: Damage per tick 19 → 20Base
    • NerfDestroyers Rampage: Duration 6 s → 4 sLevel 20
  3. Heroes of the Storm Live Patch Notes, 20 Apr 2026 Patch Nerfed

    3 nerfs

    • NerfOnslaught: Cooldown 5 s → 6 sBase
    • NerfDragonflight: Cooldown 15 s → 20 sBase
    • NerfGaze onto Destruction: Duration 5 s → 3.5 sLevel 16
  4. Heroes of the Storm PTR Patch Notes, 30 Mar 2026 PTR Nerfed

    3 nerfs

    • NerfOnslaught: Cooldown 5 s → 6 sBase
    • NerfDragonflight: Cooldown 15 s → 20 sBase
    • NerfGaze onto Destruction: Duration 5 s → 3.5 sLevel 16
  5. Heroes of the Storm Balance Patch Notes, 19 Feb 2026 Balance update Nerfed

    2 nerfs

    • NerfIncinerate: Cooldown 6 s → 7 sBase
    • NerfDeath Drop: Duration of Spell Armor 6 s → 4 sLevel 7
  6. Heroes of the Storm Live Patch Notes, 10 Feb 2026 Patch Mixed

    14 buffs, 9 nerfs, 3 other changes

    • NerfAttack Damage 155 → 117Base
    • ChangeForm Switch: Effect removed (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • NerfMolten Flame: Base Damage per Second 21 → 19Base
    • NerfIncinerate: Cooldown 4 s → 6 sBase
    • NerfIncinerate: Energy cost 20 → 30Base
    • BuffIncinerate: Effect changed (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • BuffLava Burst: Cast time 1 s → 0.75 sBase
    • NerfLava Burst: Cooldown 6 s → 9 sBase
    • NerfLava Burst: Energy cost 15 → 25Base
    • BuffLava Burst: Explosion Damage 30 → 35Base
    • BuffLava Burst: Explosion Damage over Time 6 → 7Base
    • BuffLava Burst: Slow 35% → 45%Base
    • BuffOnslaught: Bonus damage 72 → 120Base
    • BuffOnslaught: Damage 38 → 60Base
    • BuffEarth Shatter: Projectile speed +30%Base
    • ChangeCataclysm: New effect (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • NerfDragonflight: Cooldown 4 s → 6 sBase
    • BuffDragonflight: Cooldown 45 s → 15 sBase
    • BuffDragon Soul: Healing 75% → 100%Level 1
    • BuffHeat Wave: Damage over Time 6 → 9Level 4
    • NerfHeat Wave: Damage over Time stacks 4 → 3Level 4
    • BuffHeat Wave: Initial damage bonus 125% → 150%Level 4
    • BuffFirestorm: Damage 70 → 77Level 7
    • NerfFirestorm: Landing delay reduction 2 s → 3 sLevel 7
    • ChangeFirestorm: Effect removed (see Blizzard's notes)Level 7
    • BuffFire and Fury: Damage bonus 30% → 40%Level 13
  7. Heroes of the Storm PTR Patch Notes, 14 Jan 2026 PTR Mixed

    14 buffs, 8 nerfs, 3 other changes

    • NerfAttack Damage 155 → 110Base
    • ChangeForm Switch: Effect removed (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • ChangeCataclysm: New effect (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • BuffOnslaught: Bonus damage 72 → 120Base
    • BuffOnslaught: Damage 38 → 60Base
    • BuffEarth Shatter: Projectile speed +30%Base
    • NerfMolten Flame: Base Damage per Second 21 → 19Base
    • NerfIncinerate: Cooldown 4 s → 6 sBase
    • NerfIncinerate: Energy cost 20 → 30Base
    • BuffIncinerate: Effect changed (see Blizzard's notes)Base
    • BuffLava Burst: Cast time 1 s → 0.75 sBase
    • NerfLava Burst: Cooldown 6 s → 9 sBase
    • NerfLava Burst: Energy cost 15 → 25Base
    • BuffLava Burst: Explosion Damage 30 → 35Base
    • BuffLava Burst: Explosion Damage over Time 6 → 7Base
    • BuffLava Burst: Slow 35% → 45%Base
    • NerfDragonflight: Cooldown 4 s → 6 sBase
    • BuffDragonflight: Cooldown 45 s → 15 sBase
    • BuffDragon Soul: Healing 75% → 100%Level 1
    • BuffHeat Wave: Damage over Time 6 → 9Level 4
    • NerfHeat Wave: Damage over Time stacks 4 → 3Level 4
    • BuffHeat Wave: Initial damage bonus 125% → 150%Level 4
    • BuffFirestorm: Damage 70 → 77Level 7
    • ChangeFirestorm: Effect removed (see Blizzard's notes)Level 7
    • BuffFire and Fury: Damage bonus 30% → 40%Level 13

Game-data changes between builds

Detected by comparing the game files of consecutive builds, including silent changes.

  1. 2.55.17.98025 → 2.57.0.98285

    • New ability: Onslaught
    • Ability removed: Lava Burst

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