Whetstone
Heroes of the Storm

Patch 2.57 Updated

Ranged Assassin · StarCraft

Nova

Dominion Ghost

Role
Ranged Assassin
Attack
Ranged
Difficulty
Hard
Released
13 Mar 2014
Damage
10/10
Utility
4/10
Survivability
2/10
Complexity
5/10

Nova is strong against

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

  1. Abathur Curated
    Why? 5
    • CuratedNova scouts the bushes behind the lines from stealth and deletes Abathur's 685-health body with Snipe and a few basic attacks before he can react.via Permanent Cloak, Snipe, Pinning Shot
    • TheoryNova can approach unseen (Permanent Cloak, Ghost Protocol) and catch Abathur, who is easy to kill when found alone.
    • TheoryNova's burst (Snipe, Pinning Shot) can delete Abathur's small Health pool before help arrives.
    • TheoryAbathur can reveal enemies (Toxic Nest), taking away Nova's stealth.
    • TheoryAbathur's area damage (Locust Strain) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  2. Sgt. Hammer Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedSiege Mode keeps Sgt. Hammer still, making Snipe from stealth trivial to land, and Triple Tap, if Nova takes it, takes most of her 1720 Health before she can unsiege and move.via Siege Mode, Snipe, Triple Tap
    • TheoryNova can poke Sgt. Hammer from range (Snipe, Pinning Shot), and Sgt. Hammer has few ways to dodge or disengage.
    • TheorySgt. Hammer can approach unseen (Ambush) and catch Nova, who is easy to kill when found alone. Only when Sgt. Hammer takes Ambush.
    • TheorySgt. Hammer's area damage (Spider Mines, Concussive Blast) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  3. Kael'thas Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedKael'thas has no movement ability, so a stealth Snipe and Pinning Shot set up the rest of Nova's burst, Triple Tap included if she takes it, on an immobile 1595-Health mage.via Snipe, Pinning Shot, Triple Tap, Permanent Cloak
    • TheoryNova can poke Kael'thas from range (Snipe, Pinning Shot), and Kael'thas has few ways to dodge or disengage.
    • TheoryKael'thas's burst (Flamestrike, Pyroblast) can delete Nova's small Health pool before help arrives.
    • TheoryKael'thas's area damage (Flamestrike, Living Bomb) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  4. Falstad Curated
    Why? 2
    • CuratedFalstad has only 1365 Health, and a Snipe from stealth followed by Triple Tap takes nearly all of it (all of it once Snipe's stacks are full) before Barrel Roll matters. Only when Nova takes Triple Tap (level 10).via Snipe, Triple Tap, Barrel Roll
    • TheoryFalstad's area damage (Lightning Rod) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
6 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. Li-Ming 63 Theory Nova can approach unseen (Permanent Cloak, Ghost Protocol) and catch Li-Ming, who is easy to kill when found alone.
  2. Jaina 60 Theory Nova can approach unseen (Permanent Cloak, Ghost Protocol) and catch Jaina, who is easy to kill when found alone.
  3. The Lost Vikings 60 Theory Nova's burst (Snipe, Pinning Shot) can delete The Lost Vikings's small Health pool before help arrives.
  4. Raynor 57 Theory Nova can poke Raynor from range (Snipe, Pinning Shot), and Raynor has few ways to dodge or disengage.
  5. Gul'dan 55 Theory Nova can poke Gul'dan from range (Snipe, Pinning Shot), and Gul'dan has few ways to dodge or disengage.
  6. Zul'jin 51 Theory Nova can poke Zul'jin from range (Snipe, Pinning Shot), and Zul'jin has few ways to dodge or disengage.

Nova is weak against

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

  1. Tyrande Curated
    Why? 6
    • CuratedSentinel and Hunter's Mark reveal Nova, and Lunar Flare's stun lands on a revealed 1300-Health target before she can re-cloak.via Sentinel, Hunter's Mark, Lunar Flare, Permanent Cloak
    • CuratedSentinel and Hunter's Mark reveal Nova out of Permanent Cloak, and at 1300 Health she rarely survives the follow-up.
    • TheoryTyrande can reveal enemies (Sentinel, Hunter's Mark), taking away Nova's stealth.
    • TheoryTyrande can approach unseen (Shadowstalk) and catch Nova, who is easy to kill when found alone. Only when Tyrande takes Shadowstalk.
    • TheoryTyrande brings Spell Armor (Kaldorei Resistance), which blunts Nova's ability burst. Only when Tyrande takes Kaldorei Resistance.
    • TheoryTyrande's healing undoes the chip damage Nova lands from range.
  2. Medivh Curated
    Why? 3
    • CuratedNova's burst is one short window (Snipe, then Triple Tap if she takes it), and Force of Will makes the target immune to all damage for 1.5 seconds, wasting it.via Force of Will, Triple Tap, Snipe
    • TheoryMedivh can reveal enemies (Dust of Appearance), taking away Nova's stealth. Only when Medivh takes Dust of Appearance.
    • TheoryMedivh can deny a burst window, wasting Nova's cooldowns.
  3. Hanzo Curated
    Why? 5
    • CuratedSonic Arrow grants vision and reveals enemies in a large area, exposing Nova's stealth approach and leaving her open to Storm Bow.via Sonic Arrow, Storm Bow, Permanent Cloak, Snipe
    • CuratedSonic Arrow reveals an area for 5 seconds, exposing a stealthed Nova, and a fully charged Storm Bow outranges her Snipe.
    • TheoryHanzo can reveal enemies (Sonic Arrow), taking away Nova's stealth.
    • TheoryHanzo's burst (Storm Bow, Sonic Arrow) can delete Nova's small Health pool before help arrives.
    • TheoryHanzo's area damage (Serrated Arrows, Ignore All Distractions) clears Nova's summoned units quickly. Only when Hanzo takes Serrated Arrows or Ignore All Distractions.
  4. Xal'atath Curated
    Why? 5
    • CuratedShadow Mark reveals a marked Nova for 4 seconds and the Dark Heart chases her down, stopping her from slipping back into Permanent Cloak at 1300 Health.via Shadow Mark, Dark Heart Ritual, Permanent Cloak
    • TheoryXal'atath can reveal enemies (Shadow Mark), taking away Nova's stealth.
    • TheoryXal'atath's burst can delete Nova's small Health pool before help arrives.
    • TheoryXal'atath's area damage (Shadow Mark, Dark Heart Ritual) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
    • TheoryXal'atath brings Spell Armor (Cloak of Shadows, Dark Heart's Protection), which blunts Nova's ability burst. Only when Xal'atath takes Cloak of Shadows or Dark Heart's Protection.
  5. Zarya Curated
    Why? 3
    • CuratedShield Ally and Personal Barrier absorb Snipe (and Triple Tap, if Nova takes it), and every shot Nova lands on a shield builds Zarya's Energy.via Shield Ally, Personal Barrier, Energy, Snipe, Triple Tap
    • TheoryZarya can deny a burst window, wasting Nova's cooldowns.
    • TheoryZarya brings Spell Armor (Spell Barrier), which blunts Nova's ability burst. Only when Zarya takes Spell Barrier.
  6. Rexxar Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedUnleash the Boars tracks and reveals Nova for 5 seconds, so she can't slip back into Permanent Cloak, and at 1300 Health she rarely survives Misha's follow-up. Only when Rexxar takes Unleash the Boars (level 10).via Unleash the Boars, Permanent Cloak, Ghost Protocol
    • TheoryRexxar can reveal enemies (Unleash the Boars, Flare), taking away Nova's stealth. Only when Rexxar takes Unleash the Boars or Flare.
    • TheoryRexxar's area damage (Spirit Swoop, Misha, Charge!) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
    • TheoryRexxar can deny a burst window (Feign Death), wasting Nova's cooldowns. Only when Rexxar takes Feign Death.
View 10 more
  1. Lunara 76 Curated Natural Perspective makes Nature's Toxin reveal its target, so a poisoned Nova cannot re-cloak for up to 9 seconds and loses her stealth openers. Only when Lunara takes Natural Perspective (level 1).
    2 more reasons
    • Lunara can reveal enemies (Sentinel Wisp, Natural Perspective), taking away Nova's stealth. Only when Lunara takes Sentinel Wisp or Natural Perspective.
    • Lunara brings Spell Armor (Greater Spell Shield), which blunts Nova's ability burst. Only when Lunara takes Greater Spell Shield.
  2. Auriel 73 Curated Snipe, and Triple Tap if Nova takes it, commit to one target; Crystal Aegis puts that target in Stasis so the shots are wasted, or Resurrect undoes the pick if it lands.
    2 more reasons
    • Auriel can deny a burst window, wasting Nova's cooldowns.
    • Auriel's healing undoes the chip damage Nova lands from range.
  3. Dehaka 77 Theory Dehaka can reveal enemies (Isolation), taking away Nova's stealth. Only when Dehaka takes Isolation.
    3 more reasons
    • Dehaka can deny a burst window (Burrow), wasting Nova's cooldowns.
    • Dehaka can approach unseen (Lurker Strain) and catch Nova, who is easy to kill when found alone. Only when Dehaka takes Lurker Strain.
    • Dehaka brings Spell Armor (Enduring Swarm), which blunts Nova's ability burst. Only when Dehaka takes Enduring Swarm.
  4. Genji 77 Theory Genji can dive onto Nova, whose small Health pool rarely survives a committed dive.
    3 more reasons
    • Genji's burst can delete Nova's small Health pool before help arrives.
    • Genji can deny a burst window (Deflect), wasting Nova's cooldowns.
    • Genji can approach unseen (Pathfinder) and catch Nova, who is easy to kill when found alone. Only when Genji takes Pathfinder.
  5. Illidan 77 Theory Illidan can dive onto Nova, whose small Health pool rarely survives a committed dive.
    2 more reasons
    • Illidan can reveal enemies (Nowhere to Hide), taking away Nova's stealth. Only when Illidan takes Nowhere to Hide.
    • Illidan brings Spell Armor (Sixth Sense), which blunts Nova's ability burst. Only when Illidan takes Sixth Sense.
  6. Kerrigan 77 Theory Kerrigan can dive onto Nova, whose small Health pool rarely survives a committed dive.
    3 more reasons
    • Kerrigan's burst can delete Nova's small Health pool before help arrives.
    • Kerrigan's area damage (Impaling Blades, Primal Grasp) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
    • Kerrigan brings Spell Armor (Psionic Barrier), which blunts Nova's ability burst. Only when Kerrigan takes Psionic Barrier.
  7. Kharazim 77 Theory Kharazim can dive onto Nova, whose small Health pool rarely survives a committed dive.
    3 more reasons
    • Kharazim can reveal enemies (Air Ally), taking away Nova's stealth. Only when Kharazim takes Air Ally.
    • Kharazim can deny a burst window, wasting Nova's cooldowns.
    • Kharazim brings Spell Armor (Spell Shield), which blunts Nova's ability burst. Only when Kharazim takes Spell Shield.
  8. Mephisto 77 Theory Mephisto can dive onto Nova, whose small Health pool rarely survives a committed dive.
    2 more reasons
    • Mephisto can reveal enemies (Consume Souls), taking away Nova's stealth. Only when Mephisto takes Consume Souls.
    • Mephisto's area damage (Skull Missile, Shade of Mephisto) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  9. Qhira 77 Theory Qhira can dive onto Nova, whose small Health pool rarely survives a committed dive.
    3 more reasons
    • Qhira can reveal enemies (No Sanctuary), taking away Nova's stealth. Only when Qhira takes No Sanctuary.
    • Qhira's area damage (Carnage, Revolving Sweep) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
    • Qhira brings Spell Armor (Swing Life Away), which blunts Nova's ability burst. Only when Qhira takes Swing Life Away.
  10. Tassadar 77 Theory Tassadar can reveal enemies (Oracle), taking away Nova's stealth. Only when Tassadar takes Oracle.
    3 more reasons
    • Tassadar's burst (Shock Ray) can delete Nova's small Health pool before help arrives.
    • Tassadar can approach unseen (Shadow Walk) and catch Nova, who is easy to kill when found alone. Only when Tassadar takes Shadow Walk.
    • Tassadar brings Spell Armor (Oracle), which blunts Nova's ability burst. Only when Tassadar takes Oracle.
58 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. Tracer 77 Theory Tracer can dive onto Nova, whose small Health pool rarely survives a committed dive.
  2. Valeera 77 Theory Valeera can approach unseen (Vanish) and catch Nova, who is easy to kill when found alone.
  3. Zagara 77 Theory Zagara can reveal enemies (Creep Tumor), taking away Nova's stealth.
  4. Zeratul 77 Theory Zeratul can reveal enemies (Vorpal Blade), taking away Nova's stealth.
  5. Malthael 75 Theory Malthael can reveal enemies (Reaper's Mark), taking away Nova's stealth.
  6. Mal'Ganis 74 Theory Mal'Ganis brings Spell Armor (Necrotic Embrace), which blunts Nova's ability burst.
  7. Artanis 73 Theory Artanis can dive onto Nova, whose small Health pool rarely survives a committed dive.
  8. Orphea 73 Theory Orphea's burst (Chomp, Dread) can delete Nova's small Health pool before help arrives.
  9. Alexstrasza 71 Theory Alexstrasza can deny a burst window, wasting Nova's cooldowns.
  10. Samuro 71 Theory Samuro can approach unseen (Wind Walk) and catch Nova, who is easy to kill when found alone.
  11. Uther 71 Theory Uther can deny a burst window (Devotion, Divine Shield), wasting Nova's cooldowns.
  12. Greymane 70 Theory Greymane can dive onto Nova, whose small Health pool rarely survives a committed dive.
  13. Chromie 69 Theory Chromie can reveal enemies (Timewalker's Pursuit), taking away Nova's stealth. Only when Chromie takes Timewalker's Pursuit.
  14. Maiev 69 Theory Maiev can dive onto Nova, whose small Health pool rarely survives a committed dive.
  15. The Butcher 69 Theory The Butcher can dive onto Nova, whose small Health pool rarely survives a committed dive.
  16. Thrall 69 Theory Thrall can dive onto Nova, whose small Health pool rarely survives a committed dive.
  17. Lúcio 68 Theory Lúcio's area damage (Soundwave, Push Off) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  18. Junkrat 67 Theory Junkrat's burst (Concussion Mine, Steel Trap) can delete Nova's small Health pool before help arrives.
  19. Stitches 67 Theory Stitches can deny a burst window, wasting Nova's cooldowns.
  20. Tyrael 67 Theory Tyrael can deny a burst window (Archangel's Wrath, Sanctification), wasting Nova's cooldowns.
  21. Alarak 65 Theory Alarak's burst can delete Nova's small Health pool before help arrives.
  22. Anduin 65 Theory Anduin can deny a burst window, wasting Nova's cooldowns.
  23. Blaze 65 Theory Blaze's area damage (Flame Stream, Pyromania) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  24. Brightwing 65 Theory Brightwing brings Spell Armor (Pixie Dust), which blunts Nova's ability burst.
  25. Fenix 65 Theory Fenix's area damage (Plasma Cutter, Weapon Mode: Repeater Cannon) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  26. Rehgar 65 Theory Rehgar can deny a burst window, wasting Nova's cooldowns.
  27. Xul 65 Theory Xul's area damage (Spectral Scythe, Cursed Strikes) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  28. Deckard 64 Theory Deckard can reveal enemies (Scroll of Identify), taking away Nova's stealth. Only when Deckard takes Scroll of Identify.
  29. Malfurion 64 Theory Malfurion can reveal enemies (Moonfire, Celestial Alignment), taking away Nova's stealth.
  30. Cassia 63 Theory Cassia's area damage (Lightning Fury, Blinding Light) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  31. Cho'gall 63 Theory Cho'gall's area damage (Shadowflame, Dread Orb) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  32. Deathwing 63 Theory Deathwing's area damage (Incinerate, Onslaught) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  33. Leoric 63 Theory Leoric's area damage (Skeletal Swing) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  34. Ragnaros 63 Theory Ragnaros's area damage (Empower Sulfuras, Blast Wave) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  35. Anub'arak 62 Theory Anub'arak brings Spell Armor (Harden Carapace, The Traitor King), which blunts Nova's ability burst.
  36. Sonya 62 Theory Sonya can dive onto Nova, whose small Health pool rarely survives a committed dive.
  37. Valla 62 Theory Valla brings Spell Armor (Gloom), which blunts Nova's ability burst. Only when Valla takes Gloom.
  38. Lt. Morales 61 Theory Lt. Morales can deny a burst window (Safe Zone), wasting Nova's cooldowns. Only when Lt. Morales takes Safe Zone.
  39. Murky 60 Theory Murky can reveal enemies (Spawn Egg, Fish Eye), taking away Nova's stealth.
  40. Nazeebo 59 Theory Nazeebo's area damage clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  41. D.Va 57 Theory D.Va's area damage (Self-Destruct, Mech Mode) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  42. E.T.C. 57 Theory E.T.C.'s area damage (Powerslide, Face Melt) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  43. Garrosh 57 Theory Garrosh's area damage (Groundbreaker, Wrecking Ball) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  44. Gazlowe 57 Theory Gazlowe's area damage (Deth Lazor, Xplodium Charge) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  45. Hogger 57 Theory Hogger's area damage (Staggering Blow, Loot Hoard) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  46. Imperius 57 Theory Imperius brings Spell Armor (Impervious), which blunts Nova's ability burst. Only when Imperius takes Impervious.
  47. Johanna 57 Theory Johanna's area damage (Condemn) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  48. Mei 57 Theory Mei brings Spell Armor (Crystallize), which blunts Nova's ability burst. Only when Mei takes Crystallize.
  49. Sylvanas 57 Theory Sylvanas's area damage clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  50. Tychus 57 Theory Tychus brings Spell Armor (Neosteel Coating), which blunts Nova's ability burst. Only when Tychus takes Neosteel Coating.
  51. Yrel 57 Theory Yrel's area damage (Vindication, Righteous Hammer) clears Nova's summoned units quickly.
  52. Varian 56 Theory Varian can deny a burst window (Shield Wall), wasting Nova's cooldowns. Only when Varian takes Shield Wall.
  53. Ana 55 Theory Ana's healing undoes the chip damage Nova lands from range.
  54. Kel'Thuzad 55 Theory Kel'Thuzad's burst can delete Nova's small Health pool before help arrives.
  55. Li Li 55 Theory Li Li's healing undoes the chip damage Nova lands from range.
  56. Stukov 55 Theory Stukov's healing undoes the chip damage Nova lands from range.
  57. Whitemane 55 Theory Whitemane's healing undoes the chip damage Nova lands from range.
  58. Probius 51 Theory Probius can reveal enemies (Photon Cannon), taking away Nova's stealth.

Nova works well with

Score 1–100 for how well the kits combine

  1. Stitches Curated
    Why? 5
    • CuratedGorge releases its victim at Stitches's feet at a known moment, giving Nova a predictable spot for Snipe and, if she takes it, Triple Tap. Only when Stitches takes Gorge (level 10).via Gorge, Snipe, Triple Tap
    • TheoryStitches can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
    • TheoryStitches groups or freezes enemies (Hook) for Nova's area damage. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
    • TheoryStitches's stun (Gorge) holds targets still for Nova's burst. Only when Stitches takes Gorge.
    • TheoryStitches starts fights on its own terms, giving Nova grouped targets for area burst. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  2. Mei Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedIce Wall traps Heroes for 2.5 seconds, longer than Precision Strike's 1.5-second delay, and leaves a target that cannot sidestep Snipe. Only when Mei takes Ice Wall (level 10), and Nova takes Precision Strike (level 10).via Ice Wall, Precision Strike, Snipe
    • TheoryMei's stun (Blizzard, Avalanche) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
    • TheoryMei can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
    • TheoryMei starts fights on its own terms, giving Nova grouped targets for area burst. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  3. Kel'Thuzad Curated
    Why? 3
    • CuratedChains of Kel'Thuzad holds targets in place for Snipe, and when both take them, Frost Blast's 2-second root is long enough for Precision Strike to land.via Frost Blast, Precision Strike, Chains of Kel'Thuzad, Snipe
    • TheoryKel'Thuzad's stun (Chains of Kel'Thuzad, Chains of Ice) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
    • TheoryKel'Thuzad groups or freezes enemies (Chains of Kel'Thuzad) for Nova's area damage. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  4. Johanna Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryJohanna's stun (Condemn, Falling Sword) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
    • TheoryJohanna can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
    • TheoryJohanna groups or freezes enemies (Condemn) for Nova's area damage. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  5. Medivh Theory
    Why? 4
    • TheoryMedivh can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
    • TheoryMedivh groups or freezes enemies (Ley Line Seal, Medivh Cheats!) for Nova's area damage. Only when Medivh takes Ley Line Seal or Medivh Cheats!. Nova must also take Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
    • TheoryMedivh's polymorph (Poly Bomb, Glyph Of Poly Bomb) holds targets still for Nova's burst. Only when Medivh takes Poly Bomb or Glyph Of Poly Bomb.
    • TheoryMedivh starts fights on its own terms, giving Nova grouped targets for area burst. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  6. Anub'arak Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryAnub'arak's stun (Impale, Burrow Charge) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
    • TheoryAnub'arak can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
    • TheoryAnub'arak starts fights on its own terms, giving Nova grouped targets for area burst. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
View 5 more
  1. Blaze 76 Theory Blaze's stun (Jet Propulsion) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
    2 more reasons
    • Blaze can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
    • Blaze starts fights on its own terms, giving Nova grouped targets for area burst. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  2. Diablo 76 Theory Diablo's stun (Shadow Charge, Overpower) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
    2 more reasons
    • Diablo can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
    • Diablo starts fights on its own terms, giving Nova grouped targets for area burst. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  3. E.T.C. 76 Theory E.T.C.'s stun (Powerslide, Mosh Pit) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
    2 more reasons
    • E.T.C. can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
    • E.T.C. starts fights on its own terms, giving Nova grouped targets for area burst. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  4. Garrosh 76 Theory Garrosh's stun (Groundbreaker, Warbreaker) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
    2 more reasons
    • Garrosh can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
    • Garrosh starts fights on its own terms, giving Nova grouped targets for area burst. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  5. Hogger 76 Theory Hogger's stun (Staggering Blow, Shockwave) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
    2 more reasons
    • Hogger can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
    • Hogger starts fights on its own terms, giving Nova grouped targets for area burst. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
60 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. Cho'gall 75 Theory Cho'gall's stun (Hammer of Twilight, Leaden Orb) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  2. Cassia 74 Theory Cassia can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  3. Tassadar 74 Theory Tassadar can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  4. Lúcio 72 Theory Lúcio can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  5. Tyrael 72 Theory Tyrael can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  6. Ana 71 Theory Ana's stun (Sleep Dart) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  7. Anduin 71 Theory Anduin's root (Chastise, Censure) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  8. Arthas 71 Theory Arthas's root (Howling Blast, Deathchill) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  9. Auriel 71 Theory Auriel's stun (Detainment Strike, Heavy Burden) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  10. Brightwing 71 Theory Brightwing's polymorph (Polymorph) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  11. Deckard 71 Theory Deckard's root (Scroll Of Sealing) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  12. Maiev 71 Theory Maiev groups or freezes enemies (Umbral Bind) for Nova's area damage. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  13. Mal'Ganis 71 Theory Mal'Ganis's stun (Fel Claws, Will of Tichondrius) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  14. Malfurion 71 Theory Malfurion's root (Entangling Roots, Emerald Dreams) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  15. Rexxar 71 Theory Rexxar's stun (Misha, Charge!) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  16. Uther 71 Theory Uther's stun (Hammer of Justice, Divine Storm) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  17. Chromie 70 Theory Chromie's Time Stop (Time Trap, Chronic Conditions) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  18. Dehaka 70 Theory Dehaka's stun (Drag) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  19. Gazlowe 70 Theory Gazlowe's stun (Xplodium Charge, Grav-O-Bomb 3000) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  20. Kerrigan 70 Theory Kerrigan's stun (Impaling Blades, Summon Ultralisk) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  21. Imperius 68 Theory Imperius's stun (Celestial Charge, Wrath of the Angiris) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  22. Muradin 68 Theory Muradin's stun (Storm Bolt, Haymaker) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  23. Qhira 68 Theory Qhira's stun (Revolving Sweep, Unrelenting Strikes) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  24. Thrall 68 Theory Thrall's root (Feral Spirit, Alpha Wolf) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  25. Yrel 68 Theory Yrel's stun (Righteous Hammer) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  26. Zarya 68 Theory Zarya can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  27. D.Va 67 Theory D.Va can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  28. Stukov 67 Theory Stukov can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  29. Varian 67 Theory Varian can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  30. Orphea 66 Theory Orphea groups or freezes enemies (Crushing Jaws) for Nova's area damage. Only when Orphea takes Crushing Jaws. Nova must also take Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  31. Whitemane 66 Theory Whitemane groups or freezes enemies (Judgment Day) for Nova's area damage. Only when Whitemane takes Judgment Day. Nova must also take Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  32. Zeratul 66 Theory Zeratul groups or freezes enemies (Void Prison) for Nova's area damage. Only when Zeratul takes Void Prison. Nova must also take Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  33. Deathwing 62 Theory Deathwing's stun (Onslaught) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  34. Junkrat 62 Theory Junkrat's root (Steel Trap) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  35. Kael'thas 62 Theory Kael'thas's stun (Gravity Lapse) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  36. Ragnaros 62 Theory Ragnaros's stun (Empower Sulfuras, Molten Swing) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  37. Sonya 62 Theory Sonya's stun (Ancient Spear, Leap) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  38. The Butcher 62 Theory The Butcher's stun (Ruthless Onslaught) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  39. Tyrande 62 Theory Tyrande's stun (Lunar Flare) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  40. Valeera 62 Theory Valeera's stun (Blade Flurry) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  41. Xul 62 Theory Xul's root (Bone Prison, Amplify Damage) holds targets still for Nova's burst.
  42. Alarak 60 Theory Alarak can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  43. Alexstrasza 60 Theory Alexstrasza can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  44. Chen 60 Theory Chen can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  45. Kharazim 60 Theory Kharazim can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  46. Leoric 60 Theory Leoric can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  47. Li Li 60 Theory Li Li can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  48. Rehgar 60 Theory Rehgar can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  49. Sylvanas 59 Theory Sylvanas groups or freezes enemies (Mind Control) for Nova's area damage. Only when Sylvanas takes Mind Control. Nova must also take Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  50. Abathur 57 Theory Abathur's stun (Slapathur) holds targets still for Nova's burst. Only when Abathur takes Slapathur.
  51. Falstad 57 Theory Falstad's stun (Dishonorable Discharge) holds targets still for Nova's burst. Only when Falstad takes Dishonorable Discharge.
  52. Hanzo 57 Theory Hanzo's stun (Dragon's Arrow, Bullseye) holds targets still for Nova's burst. Only when Hanzo takes Dragon's Arrow or Bullseye.
  53. Illidan 57 Theory Illidan's stun (The Hunt) holds targets still for Nova's burst. Only when Illidan takes The Hunt.
  54. Jaina 57 Theory Jaina's root (Ring of Frost, Numbing Blast) holds targets still for Nova's burst. Only when Jaina takes Ring of Frost, Numbing Blast or Cold Snap.
  55. Mephisto 57 Theory Mephisto's root (Durance of Hate, Unspeakable Horror) holds targets still for Nova's burst. Only when Mephisto takes Durance of Hate or Unspeakable Horror.
  56. Murky 57 Theory Murky's stun (Octo-Grab) holds targets still for Nova's burst. Only when Murky takes Octo-Grab.
  57. The Lost Vikings 57 Theory The Lost Vikings's stun (Large and In Charge) holds targets still for Nova's burst. Only when The Lost Vikings takes Large and In Charge.
  58. Valla 57 Theory Valla's stun (Rain of Vengeance) holds targets still for Nova's burst. Only when Valla takes Rain of Vengeance.
  59. Zagara 57 Theory Zagara's stun (Devouring Maw) holds targets still for Nova's burst. Only when Zagara takes Devouring Maw.
  60. Zul'jin 57 Theory Zul'jin's root (Ensnare) holds targets still for Nova's burst. Only when Zul'jin takes Ensnare.

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 Nova

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

  1. Braxis Outpost Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryBraxis Outpost's single lane suits Nova's poke (Snipe, Pinning Shot).
    • TheoryBraxis Outpost's objective forces teamfights where Nova's area burst (Precision Strike, Explosive Round) hits several targets. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  2. Industrial District Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryIndustrial District's single lane suits Nova's poke (Snipe, Pinning Shot).
    • TheoryIndustrial District's objective forces teamfights where Nova's area burst (Precision Strike, Explosive Round) hits several targets. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  3. Lost Cavern Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryLost Cavern's single lane suits Nova's poke (Snipe, Pinning Shot).
    • TheoryLost Cavern's objective forces teamfights where Nova's area burst (Precision Strike, Explosive Round) hits several targets. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  4. Silver City Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheorySilver City's single lane suits Nova's poke (Snipe, Pinning Shot).
    • TheorySilver City's objective forces teamfights where Nova's area burst (Precision Strike, Explosive Round) hits several targets. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  5. Alterac Pass Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryAlterac Pass's objective forces teamfights where Nova's area burst (Precision Strike, Explosive Round) hits several targets. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
    • TheoryNova's summons (Holo Decoy) add damage to Alterac Pass's neutral objective.
  6. Battlefield of Eternity Theory
    Why? 2
    • TheoryBattlefield of Eternity's objective forces teamfights where Nova's area burst (Precision Strike, Explosive Round) hits several targets. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
    • TheoryNova's summons (Holo Decoy) add damage to Battlefield of Eternity's neutral objective.
View 12 more
  1. Infernal Shrines 61 Theory Infernal Shrines's objective forces teamfights where Nova's area burst (Precision Strike, Explosive Round) hits several targets. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
    1 more reason
    • Nova's summons (Holo Decoy) add damage to Infernal Shrines's neutral objective.
  2. Blackheart's Bay 57 Theory Nova can reach channelling enemies quickly (Permanent Cloak, Ghost Protocol) to contest Blackheart's Bay's objective.
  3. Cursed Hollow 57 Theory Nova can reach channelling enemies quickly (Permanent Cloak, Ghost Protocol) to contest Cursed Hollow's objective.
  4. Dragon Shire 57 Theory Nova can reach channelling enemies quickly (Permanent Cloak, Ghost Protocol) to contest Dragon Shire's objective.
  5. Towers of Doom 57 Theory Nova can reach channelling enemies quickly (Permanent Cloak, Ghost Protocol) to contest Towers of Doom's objective.
  6. Warhead Junction 57 Theory Nova can reach channelling enemies quickly (Permanent Cloak, Ghost Protocol) to contest Warhead Junction's objective.
  7. Braxis Holdout 56 Theory Braxis Holdout's objective forces teamfights where Nova's area burst (Precision Strike, Explosive Round) hits several targets. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  8. Hanamura Temple 56 Theory Hanamura Temple's objective forces teamfights where Nova's area burst (Precision Strike, Explosive Round) hits several targets. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  9. Sky Temple 56 Theory Sky Temple's objective forces teamfights where Nova's area burst (Precision Strike, Explosive Round) hits several targets. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  10. Volskaya Foundry 56 Theory Volskaya Foundry's objective forces teamfights where Nova's area burst (Precision Strike, Explosive Round) hits several targets. Only when Nova takes Precision Strike or Explosive Round.
  11. Garden of Terror 55 Theory Nova's summons (Holo Decoy) add damage to Garden of Terror's neutral objective.
  12. Haunted Mines 55 Theory Nova's summons (Holo Decoy) add damage to Haunted Mines's neutral objective.

All maps

Talents by level

  1. 1

    • Longshot W

      Increases the cast range of Pinning Shot by 30%. Pinning Shot also increases the range of Nova's next Basic Attack by 2.3.

    • Covert Ops W

      After being Stealthed for 2 seconds, Pinning Shot's Slow is increased to 60% and costs no Mana. Bonus is lost after losing Stealth for 1 second.

    • Advanced Cloaking Trait

      After being Stealthed for 1 second, gain an additional 10% Movement Speed. While Stealthed, regenerate 6 Mana per second.

  2. 4

    • Rapid Projection E

      Reduces Holo Decoy's cooldown and Mana cost by 60%.

    • Holo Stability E

      Increase the cast range of Holo Decoy by 100% and its duration by 120%. Passive: Reduce the cooldown of Ghost Protocol by 15 seconds.

    • Covert Mission Active

      Enemy Minions killed near Nova grant a stack of Bribe. Hero Takedowns grant 10 stacks of Bribe. Use 25 stacks to bribe a Mercenary, instantly defeating them. Does not work on Elite Mercenaries. Maximum of 100 stacks. If a camp is defeated entirely with Bribe, the camp respawns 50% faster.

  3. 7

    • Perfect Shot Q

      Hitting an enemy with Snipe reduces its cooldown by 2 seconds and refunds half its Mana cost, doubled against enemy Heroes.

    • One in the Chamber Passive

      After using an Ability, Nova's next Basic Attack within 3 seconds deals 65% additional damage.

    • Anti-Armor Shells Passive

      Nova's Basic Attacks deal 250% damage and decrease the Physical Armor of Heroic targets by 15 for 4 seconds, but her Attack Speed is proportionally slower.

  4. 10

    • Triple Tap Heroic

      Locks in on the target Hero, then fires 3 shots that hit the first Hero or Structure they come in contact with for 372 (+4% per level) damage each.

    • Precision Strike Heroic

      After a 1.5 second delay, deals 435 (+4% per level) damage to enemies within an area. Unlimited range.

  5. 13

    • Psionic Efficiency Q

      Snipe's range is increased by 15% and hitting a Hero grants an additional stack of Precision Sniper.

    • Double Tap W

      Pinning Shot now has 2 charges, but its cooldown is increased by 2 seconds.

    • Ionic Force Field Trait

      Gain 25 Armor for 3 seconds after losing Stealth.

  6. 16

    • Explosive Round Q

      Snipe also deals 90% damage to enemies near the impact.

    • Crippling Shot W

      Pinning Shot lowers a Hero's Armor by 20 for the duration of the Slow, causing them to take 20% increased damage.

    • Lethal Decoy E

      Increases the damage Holo Decoy deals to 30% of Nova's damage.

  7. 20

    • Fast Reload Heroic

      Triple Tap's cooldown is reset if it kills an enemy Hero.

    • Precision Barrage Heroic

      Precision Strike gains a 2nd charge and its cooldown is reduced by 25 seconds.

    • Apollo Suit Trait

      Reduce the cooldown of Permanent Cloak by 2 seconds.

    • Rewind Active

      Activate to reset the cooldowns of your Basic Abilities.

  • Permanent Cloak D Trait

    Gain Stealth when out of combat for 3 seconds. Taking damage, attacking, using Abilities, or Channeling ends Stealth. Remaining stationary for at least 1.5 seconds while Stealthed grants Invisible. Passive: Gain 15% Movement Speed while Stealthed.

  • Snipe Q Ability

    6 s cooldown 50 Mana

    Deal 230 (+4% per level) damage to the first enemy hit. Passive: Hitting an enemy Hero with Snipe permanently increases the damage of Snipe by 6%, stacking up to 30%. Gain an additional 25% damage bonus at maximum stacks. All stacks are lost if Snipe fails to hit an enemy.

  • Pinning Shot W Ability

    12 s cooldown 65 Mana

    Deal 100 (+4% per level) damage to an enemy and Slow them by 40% for 2.25 seconds.

  • Holo Decoy E Ability

    15 s cooldown 50 Mana

    Create a Decoy for 5 seconds with 100% of Nova's current Health that attacks enemies, dealing 10% of Nova's base damage. Whenever a Decoy takes damage, it deals that amount of damage to itself, effectively doubling the damage it takes. Using this Ability does not break Stealth.

  • Precision Strike R Heroic

    50 s cooldown 100 Mana

    After a 1.5 second delay, deals 435 (+4% per level) damage to enemies within an area. Unlimited range.

  • Triple Tap R Heroic

    100 s cooldown 100 Mana

    Locks in on the target Hero, then fires 3 shots that hit the first Hero or Structure they come in contact with for 372 (+4% per level) damage each.

  • Ghost Protocol Active

    60 s cooldown

    Activate to instantly grant Stealth to Nova and spawn a Holo Decoy at her location. Nova is Unrevealable for the first 0.5 seconds when Stealthed by Ghost Protocol.

Mechanics tags

What the theory layer reads from Nova'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

Slow
Ability Pinning Shot “Deal 100 damage to an enemy and Slow them by 40% for 2.25 seconds.”
Talent Covert Ops “After being Stealthed for 2 seconds, Pinning Shot's Slow is increased to 60% and costs no Mana.”
Talent Crippling Shot “Pinning Shot lowers a Hero's Armor by 20 for the duration of the Slow, causing them to take 20% increased damage.”

Defense and mobility

Stealth
Ability Permanent Cloak “Gain Stealth when out of combat for 3 seconds.”
Ability Ghost Protocol “Activate to instantly grant Stealth to Nova and spawn a Holo Decoy at her location.”
Talent Covert Ops “After being Stealthed for 2 seconds, Pinning Shot's Slow is increased to 60% and costs no Mana.”
Talent Advanced Cloaking “After being Stealthed for 1 second, gain an additional 10% Movement Speed.”

Damage and macro

Area damage
Ability Precision Strike “After a 1.5 second delay, deals 435 damage to enemies within an area.”
Talent Explosive Round “Snipe also deals 90% damage to enemies near the impact.”
Armor shred
Talent Crippling Shot “Pinning Shot lowers a Hero's Armor by 20 for the duration of the Slow, causing them to take 20% increased damage.”
Burst
Ability Snipe “Deal 230 damage to the first enemy hit.”
Ability Pinning Shot “Deal 100 damage to an enemy and Slow them by 40% for 2.25 seconds.”
Curated note Snipe stacks into big hits, and Triple Tap or Precision Strike turn a caught target into a kill from long range.
Poke
Ability Snipe “Deal 230 damage to the first enemy hit.”
Ability Pinning Shot “Deal 100 damage to an enemy and Slow them by 40% for 2.25 seconds.”
Summons
Ability Holo Decoy “Create a Decoy for 5 seconds with 100% of Nova's current Health that attacks enemies, dealing 10% of Nova's base damage.”

Play-style traits

Vulnerable body
Curated note 1300 Health and no defensive tools beyond Holo Decoy and Ghost Protocol, so being revealed and caught is usually fatal.

No patch notes for Nova in this data yet.

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Guides and builds

Reference and esports

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