Whetstone
Heroes of the Storm

Patch 2.57 Updated

Bruiser / Tank · Warcraft

Varian

High King of the Alliance

Role
Bruiser or Tank
Attack
Melee
Difficulty
Medium
Released
15 Nov 2016
Last patched
30 Sep 2025
Damage
6/10
Utility
7/10
Survivability
6/10
Complexity
6/10

Varian is strong against

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

  1. Illidan Curated
    Why? 6
    • CuratedParry blocks Illidan's basic attacks, cutting off Betrayer's Thirst healing and cooldown reduction, and Taunt, if Varian takes it, silences him so he can't Dive away.via Parry, Taunt, Betrayer's Thirst, Dive
    • TheoryVarian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Illidan relies on for damage.
    • TheoryVarian has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Illidan off a target.
    • TheoryVarian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which blunts Illidan's self-healing in melee range. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
    • TheoryVarian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Illidan's Physical Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Illidan must also take Reflexive Block.
    • TheoryIllidan deals damage based on maximum Health (Fiery Brand), which hits high-Health heroes like Varian hardest. Only when Illidan takes Fiery Brand.
  2. Thrall Curated
    Why? 5
    • CuratedParry negates Windfury's quick basic attacks for 1.25 seconds, and Taunt, if Varian takes it at level 4, silences Thrall so he can't Feral Spirit or Chain Lightning for healing stacks.via Parry, Taunt, Windfury, Frostwolf Resilience
    • TheoryVarian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Thrall relies on for damage.
    • TheoryVarian has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Thrall off a target.
    • TheoryVarian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which blunts Thrall's self-healing in melee range. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
    • TheoryVarian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Thrall's Physical Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Thrall must also take Feral Resilience.
  3. The Butcher Curated
    Why? 7
    • CuratedParry blocks all basic attacks for 1.25 seconds with two charges, and Taunt, if Varian takes it at level 4, silences The Butcher and forces him to swing at Varian instead of his target.via Parry, Taunt, Fresh Meat
    • TheoryVarian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which The Butcher relies on for damage.
    • TheoryVarian has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel The Butcher off a target.
    • TheoryVarian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which blunts The Butcher's self-healing in melee range. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
    • TheoryVarian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting The Butcher's Physical Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. The Butcher must also take Block.
    • TheoryThe Butcher deals damage based on maximum Health (Savage Charge), which hits high-Health heroes like Varian hardest. Only when The Butcher takes Savage Charge.
    • TheoryThe Butcher can ignore or remove crowd control (Ruthless Onslaught), weakening Varian's taunt. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  4. Valla Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedParry blocks all of Valla's basic attacks for 1.25 seconds with two charges, and Charge, plus Taunt if Varian takes it, pins her in place.via Parry, Charge, Taunt, Hatred
    • TheoryVarian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Valla relies on for damage.
    • TheoryVarian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Valla's Spell Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Valla must also take Gloom.
    • TheoryValla deals damage based on maximum Health (Manticore), which hits high-Health heroes like Varian hardest. Only when Valla takes Manticore.
  5. Chen Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedShattering Throw deals up to 1400 bonus damage to shields and Varian's attacks deal extra to shields, stripping Fortifying Brew, Chen's main defence. Only when Varian takes Shattering Throw (level 13).via Shattering Throw, Fortifying Brew
    • TheoryVarian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Chen hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
    • TheoryVarian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which blunts Chen's self-healing in melee range. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike. Chen must also take Stormstout Secret Recipe or Eye of the Tiger.
    • TheoryVarian can interrupt channels with silence (Taunt), and Chen relies on channelled abilities. Only when Varian takes Taunt. Chen must also take Energizing Brew.
  6. Zul'jin Curated
    Why? 5
    • CuratedParry blocks the basic attacks that make up most of Zul'jin's damage, and Taunt, if Varian takes it, silences him so he cannot use his Heroic at the critical moment.via Parry, Taunt, Taz'dingo!, Berserker
    • TheoryVarian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Zul'jin relies on for damage.
    • TheoryVarian can interrupt channels with silence (Taunt), and Zul'jin relies on channelled abilities. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
    • TheoryZul'jin deals damage based on maximum Health (No Mercy!), which hits high-Health heroes like Varian hardest. Only when Zul'jin takes No Mercy!.
    • TheoryZul'jin can ignore or remove crowd control (Voodoo Shuffle), weakening Varian's taunt. Only when Zul'jin takes Voodoo Shuffle. Varian must also take Taunt.
View 11 more
  1. Fenix 74 Curated Shattering Throw deals up to 1400 bonus damage to shields, wiping out Shield Capacitor in a single hit. Only when Varian takes Shattering Throw (level 13).
    4 more reasons
    • Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Fenix relies on for damage.
    • Varian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Fenix's Spell Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Fenix must also take Dampening Field.
    • Varian can interrupt channels with silence (Taunt), and Fenix relies on channelled abilities. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
    • Fenix deals damage based on maximum Health (Offensive Cadence), which hits high-Health heroes like Varian hardest. Only when Fenix takes Offensive Cadence.
  2. Tychus 68 Curated Parry blocks every basic attack for 1.25 seconds and stores two charges, so Varian can waste most of a 3-second Minigun window. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash or Twin Blades of Fury (level 4) rather than Taunt.
    4 more reasons
    • Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Tychus relies on for damage.
    • Varian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Tychus's Spell Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Tychus must also take Neosteel Coating.
    • Varian can interrupt channels with silence (Taunt), and Tychus relies on channelled abilities. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
    • Tychus deals damage based on maximum Health (Minigun, Titan Grenade), which hits high-Health heroes like Varian hardest.
  3. Zarya 64 Curated Shattering Throw deals up to 1400 bonus damage to Shields, popping Personal Barrier or Shield Ally on demand and denying Zarya the Energy she would have gained. Only when Varian takes Shattering Throw (level 13).
    1 more reason
    • Varian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Zarya's Physical Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Zarya must also take Defensive Shielding.
  4. Artanis 77 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Artanis relies on for damage.
    3 more reasons
    • Varian has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Artanis off a target.
    • Varian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Artanis's Physical Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Artanis must also take Reactive Parry.
    • Varian's silence (Taunt) can stop Artanis in the middle of a dive. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  5. Greymane 77 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Greymane relies on for damage.
    3 more reasons
    • Varian has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Greymane off a target.
    • Varian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Greymane's Physical Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Greymane must also take Thick Skin.
    • Varian's silence (Taunt) can stop Greymane in the middle of a dive. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  6. Kharazim 77 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Kharazim relies on for damage.
    3 more reasons
    • Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which cuts into Kharazim's healing. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
    • Varian has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Kharazim off a target.
    • Varian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Kharazim's Physical Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Kharazim must also take Earth Ally or Sixth Sense.
  7. Kerrigan 76 Theory Varian has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Kerrigan off a target.
    3 more reasons
    • Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which blunts Kerrigan's self-healing in melee range. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike. Kerrigan must also take Chrysalis.
    • Varian can deny a burst window (Shield Wall), wasting Kerrigan's cooldowns. Only when Varian takes Shield Wall.
    • Varian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Kerrigan's Spell Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Kerrigan must also take Psionic Barrier.
  8. Zeratul 76 Theory Varian has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Zeratul off a target.
    3 more reasons
    • Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which blunts Zeratul's self-healing in melee range. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike. Zeratul must also take Mending Strikes or Shadow Mending.
    • Varian can deny a burst window (Shield Wall), wasting Zeratul's cooldowns. Only when Varian takes Shield Wall.
    • Varian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Zeratul's Spell Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Zeratul must also take Spell Shield.
  9. Samuro 73 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Samuro relies on for damage.
    2 more reasons
    • Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which blunts Samuro's self-healing in melee range. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
    • Varian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Samuro's Physical Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Samuro must also take Deflection.
  10. E.T.C. 72 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like E.T.C. hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
    3 more reasons
    • Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which blunts E.T.C.'s self-healing in melee range. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
    • Varian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting E.T.C.'s Physical Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. E.T.C. must also take Block Party.
    • Varian can interrupt channels with silence (Taunt), and E.T.C. relies on channelled abilities. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  11. Genji 72 Theory Varian has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Genji off a target.
    3 more reasons
    • Varian can deny a burst window (Shield Wall), wasting Genji's cooldowns. Only when Varian takes Shield Wall.
    • Varian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Genji's Spell Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Genji must also take Cyber Shield.
    • Varian's silence (Taunt) can stop Genji in the middle of a dive. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
56 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. Imperius 72 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Imperius hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  2. Mal'Ganis 72 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Mal'Ganis hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  3. Qhira 72 Theory Varian has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Qhira off a target.
  4. Sonya 72 Theory Varian has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Sonya off a target.
  5. Xal'atath 70 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Xal'atath relies on for damage.
  6. Anub'arak 69 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Anub'arak hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  7. Mei 69 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Mei hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  8. Muradin 69 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Muradin hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  9. Ragnaros 69 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Ragnaros hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  10. Stukov 69 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which cuts into Stukov's healing. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  11. Tracer 67 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Tracer relies on for damage.
  12. Tyrande 67 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Tyrande relies on for damage.
  13. Alarak 66 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which blunts Alarak's self-healing in melee range. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  14. Anduin 65 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which cuts into Anduin's healing. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  15. Auriel 65 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which cuts into Auriel's healing. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  16. Brightwing 65 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which cuts into Brightwing's healing. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  17. Deathwing 65 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Deathwing hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  18. Diablo 65 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Diablo hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  19. Falstad 65 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Falstad relies on for damage.
  20. Li Li 65 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which cuts into Li Li's healing. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  21. Li-Ming 65 Theory Varian can deny a burst window (Shield Wall), wasting Li-Ming's cooldowns. Only when Varian takes Shield Wall.
  22. Malfurion 65 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which cuts into Malfurion's healing. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  23. Orphea 65 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Orphea relies on for damage.
  24. Sgt. Hammer 65 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Sgt. Hammer relies on for damage.
  25. Tyrael 65 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Tyrael hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  26. Uther 65 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which cuts into Uther's healing. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  27. Whitemane 65 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which cuts into Whitemane's healing. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  28. Yrel 65 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which blunts Yrel's self-healing in melee range. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  29. Valeera 64 Theory Varian has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Valeera off a target.
  30. Dehaka 63 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Dehaka hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  31. Rexxar 63 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Rexxar hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  32. Hanzo 62 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Hanzo relies on for damage.
  33. Cassia 61 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Cassia relies on for damage.
  34. Alexstrasza 60 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which cuts into Alexstrasza's healing. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  35. Blaze 60 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Blaze hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  36. Kel'Thuzad 60 Theory Varian can deny a burst window (Shield Wall), wasting Kel'Thuzad's cooldowns. Only when Varian takes Shield Wall.
  37. Xul 60 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Xul relies on for damage.
  38. Deckard 59 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which cuts into Deckard's healing. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  39. Garrosh 59 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Garrosh hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  40. Gul'dan 59 Theory Varian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Gul'dan's Spell Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Gul'dan must also take Fel Armor.
  41. Mephisto 59 Theory Varian has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Mephisto off a target.
  42. Murky 59 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which blunts Murky's self-healing in melee range. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike. Murky must also take Rejuvenating Bubble or Fish Tank.
  43. Arthas 57 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Arthas hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  44. Johanna 57 Theory Varian deals damage based on maximum Health (Juggernaut), which hits high-Health heroes like Johanna hardest. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  45. Chromie 56 Theory Varian can deny a burst window (Shield Wall), wasting Chromie's cooldowns. Only when Varian takes Shield Wall.
  46. Gazlowe 56 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which blunts Gazlowe's self-healing in melee range. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  47. Hogger 56 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which blunts Hogger's self-healing in melee range. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  48. Junkrat 56 Theory Varian can deny a burst window (Shield Wall), wasting Junkrat's cooldowns. Only when Varian takes Shield Wall.
  49. Lt. Morales 56 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which cuts into Lt. Morales's healing. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  50. Nova 56 Theory Varian can deny a burst window (Shield Wall), wasting Nova's cooldowns. Only when Varian takes Shield Wall.
  51. Tassadar 56 Theory Varian can deny a burst window (Shield Wall), wasting Tassadar's cooldowns. Only when Varian takes Shield Wall.
  52. Maiev 54 Theory Varian has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Maiev off a target.
  53. Raynor 53 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Raynor relies on for damage.
  54. Lúcio 51 Theory Varian reduces healing received (Mortal Strike), which cuts into Lúcio's healing. Only when Varian takes Mortal Strike.
  55. Malthael 51 Theory Varian can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Parry, Overpower), which Malthael relies on for damage.
  56. Probius 51 Theory Varian can deny a burst window (Shield Wall), wasting Probius's cooldowns. Only when Varian takes Shield Wall.

Varian is weak against

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

  1. Jaina Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedParry only blocks Basic Attacks, so it does nothing against Jaina's Ability damage, and constant Chill leaves Charge as Varian's only way to reach her.via Parry, Charge, Frostbite
    • TheoryJaina can ignore or remove crowd control (Ice Cold), weakening Varian's taunt. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
    • TheoryVarian can deny a burst window (Shield Wall), wasting Jaina's cooldowns. Only when Varian takes Shield Wall.
    • TheoryVarian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Jaina's Physical Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Jaina must also take Frost Armor.
  2. Cho'gall Curated
    Why? 1
    • CuratedTwin Blades Varian deals almost all his damage through physical basic attacks, which Ogre Hide's armor (75 for a moment with Twilight Veil at level 13) cuts sharply while Gall keeps hitting him with Shadowflame in melee range. Only when Varian takes Twin Blades of Fury (level 4).via Ogre Hide, Twilight Veil, Shadowflame, Twin Blades of Fury
8 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. Ana 62 Theory Ana reduces healing received (Biotic Grenade), which blunts Varian's self-healing in melee range.
  2. Lunara 62 Theory Lunara deals damage based on maximum Health (Invigorating Spores), which hits high-Health heroes like Varian hardest. Only when Lunara takes Invigorating Spores.
  3. Sylvanas 62 Theory Sylvanas deals damage based on maximum Health (Overwhelming Affliction), which hits high-Health heroes like Varian hardest. Only when Sylvanas takes Overwhelming Affliction.
  4. The Lost Vikings 59 Theory The Lost Vikings deals damage based on maximum Health (Nordic Attack Squad), which hits high-Health heroes like Varian hardest.
  5. Zagara 59 Theory Zagara deals damage based on maximum Health (Corrosive Saliva), which hits high-Health heroes like Varian hardest. Only when Zagara takes Corrosive Saliva.
  6. Rehgar 58 Theory Rehgar deals damage based on maximum Health (Hunger of the Wolf), which hits high-Health heroes like Varian hardest. Only when Rehgar takes Hunger of the Wolf.
  7. Kael'thas 53 Theory Kael'thas deals damage based on maximum Health (Burned Flesh), which hits high-Health heroes like Varian hardest. Only when Kael'thas takes Burned Flesh.
  8. Leoric 53 Theory Leoric deals damage based on maximum Health (Drain Hope, Crushing Hope), which hits high-Health heroes like Varian hardest.

Varian works well with

Score 1–100 for how well the kits combine

  1. Abathur Curated
    Why? 2
    • CuratedSymbiote on a Twin Blades Varian adds shields and Spike Burst while he attacks, and Ultimate Evolution, if Abathur takes it, can copy his high basic-attack damage. Only when Varian takes Twin Blades of Fury (level 4).via Symbiote, Carapace, Ultimate Evolution, Twin Blades of Fury
    • TheoryVarian can protect Abathur's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  2. Lúcio Curated
    Why? 1
    • CuratedVarian needs to stay glued to a target and has only Charge to get there; Amp It Up's 30% Speed Boost gives him extra reach, and High Five, if Lúcio takes it, frees him when he is caught.via Amp It Up, High Five, Charge
  3. Rehgar Curated
    Why? 1
    • CuratedBloodlust's Attack Speed and lifesteal stack with Twin Blades of Fury's attack speed and Heroic Strike resets. Only when Rehgar takes Bloodlust (level 10), and Varian takes Twin Blades of Fury (level 4).via Bloodlust, Twin Blades of Fury, Heroic Strike
  4. Uther Curated
    Why? 1
    • CuratedDevotion's Armor and Holy Light keep Varian alive as he Charges in, and Hammer of Justice chains with Taunt, if Varian takes it, to lock a target down.via Devotion, Holy Light, Hammer of Justice, Charge, Taunt
  5. Chromie Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryVarian peels divers off Chromie, who cannot escape alone.
    • TheoryVarian's taunt (Taunt) holds targets still for Chromie's burst. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
    • TheoryVarian holds the front line, giving Chromie room to deal damage from behind it.
  6. Kael'thas Theory
    Why? 3
    • TheoryVarian peels divers off Kael'thas, who cannot escape alone.
    • TheoryVarian's taunt (Taunt) holds targets still for Kael'thas's burst. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
    • TheoryVarian holds the front line, giving Kael'thas room to deal damage from behind it.
View 6 more
  1. Kel'Thuzad 77 Theory Varian peels divers off Kel'Thuzad, who cannot escape alone.
    2 more reasons
    • Varian's taunt (Taunt) holds targets still for Kel'Thuzad's burst. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
    • Varian holds the front line, giving Kel'Thuzad room to deal damage from behind it.
  2. Azmodan 71 Theory Varian peels divers off Azmodan, who cannot escape alone.
    1 more reason
    • Varian holds the front line, giving Azmodan room to deal damage from behind it.
  3. Gul'dan 71 Theory Varian peels divers off Gul'dan, who cannot escape alone.
    1 more reason
    • Varian holds the front line, giving Gul'dan room to deal damage from behind it.
  4. Nazeebo 71 Theory Varian peels divers off Nazeebo, who cannot escape alone.
    1 more reason
    • Varian holds the front line, giving Nazeebo room to deal damage from behind it.
  5. Raynor 71 Theory Varian peels divers off Raynor, who cannot escape alone.
    1 more reason
    • Varian holds the front line, giving Raynor room to deal damage from behind it.
  6. Sgt. Hammer 71 Theory Varian peels divers off Sgt. Hammer, who cannot escape alone.
    1 more reason
    • Varian holds the front line, giving Sgt. Hammer room to deal damage from behind it.
25 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. Zul'jin 71 Theory Varian peels divers off Zul'jin, who cannot escape alone.
  2. Jaina 67 Theory Varian can protect Jaina's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  3. Li-Ming 67 Theory Varian can protect Li-Ming's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  4. Murky 67 Theory Varian can protect Murky's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  5. Nova 67 Theory Varian can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  6. Probius 67 Theory Varian can protect Probius's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  7. The Lost Vikings 60 Theory Varian can protect The Lost Vikings's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  8. Alarak 57 Theory Varian's taunt (Taunt) holds targets still for Alarak's burst. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  9. Ana 57 Theory Varian holds the front line, giving Ana room to deal damage from behind it.
  10. Anduin 57 Theory Varian holds the front line, giving Anduin room to deal damage from behind it.
  11. Deckard 57 Theory Varian holds the front line, giving Deckard room to deal damage from behind it.
  12. Gazlowe 57 Theory Varian holds the front line, giving Gazlowe room to deal damage from behind it.
  13. Genji 57 Theory Varian's taunt (Taunt) holds targets still for Genji's burst. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  14. Hanzo 57 Theory Varian's taunt (Taunt) holds targets still for Hanzo's burst. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  15. Junkrat 57 Theory Varian's taunt (Taunt) holds targets still for Junkrat's burst. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  16. Kerrigan 57 Theory Varian's taunt (Taunt) holds targets still for Kerrigan's burst. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  17. Lt. Morales 57 Theory Varian holds the front line, giving Lt. Morales room to deal damage from behind it.
  18. Orphea 57 Theory Varian's taunt (Taunt) holds targets still for Orphea's burst. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  19. Stukov 57 Theory Varian holds the front line, giving Stukov room to deal damage from behind it.
  20. Tassadar 57 Theory Varian's taunt (Taunt) holds targets still for Tassadar's burst. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  21. Tracer 57 Theory Varian's taunt (Taunt) holds targets still for Tracer's burst. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  22. Valeera 57 Theory Varian's taunt (Taunt) holds targets still for Valeera's burst. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  23. Whitemane 57 Theory Varian holds the front line, giving Whitemane room to deal damage from behind it.
  24. Xal'atath 57 Theory Varian's taunt (Taunt) holds targets still for Xal'atath's burst. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  25. Zeratul 57 Theory Varian's taunt (Taunt) holds targets still for Zeratul's burst. Only when Varian takes Taunt.

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 Varian

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

  1. Hanamura Temple Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryVarian can stand on Hanamura Temple's payload and absorb pressure.
  2. Alterac Pass Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryVarian's percent-Health damage (Juggernaut) speeds up Alterac Pass's race against neutral units. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  3. Battlefield of Eternity Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryVarian's percent-Health damage (Juggernaut) speeds up Battlefield of Eternity's race against neutral units. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  4. Garden of Terror Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryVarian's percent-Health damage (Juggernaut) speeds up Garden of Terror's race against neutral units. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  5. Haunted Mines Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryVarian's percent-Health damage (Juggernaut) speeds up Haunted Mines's race against neutral units. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
  6. Infernal Shrines Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryVarian's percent-Health damage (Juggernaut) speeds up Infernal Shrines's race against neutral units. Only when Varian takes Juggernaut.
View 5 more
  1. Blackheart's Bay 53 Theory Varian's silence (Taunt) stops enemies channelling Blackheart's Bay's objective. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  2. Cursed Hollow 53 Theory Varian's silence (Taunt) stops enemies channelling Cursed Hollow's objective. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  3. Dragon Shire 53 Theory Varian's silence (Taunt) stops enemies channelling Dragon Shire's objective. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  4. Towers of Doom 53 Theory Varian's silence (Taunt) stops enemies channelling Towers of Doom's objective. Only when Varian takes Taunt.
  5. Warhead Junction 53 Theory Varian's silence (Taunt) stops enemies channelling Warhead Junction's objective. Only when Varian takes Taunt.

All maps

Talents by level

  1. 1

    • Lion's Maw Q Quest

      Quest: Every time Lion's Fang hits a Hero, increase its damage by 7, up to 175. Reward: After hitting 25 Heroes, the Slow is increased to 50% and its duration is increased to 2 seconds.

    • Overpower W

      When Parry blocks a Hero's Basic Attack, Heroic Strike's cooldown is refreshed and the next one does 40% more damage.

    • High King's Quest Passive Quest

      Quest: Hit 50 Heroes with Basic Attacks. Quest: Participate in 5 Hero Takedowns. Quest: Gather 15 Regeneration Globes. Reward: Completing a Quest grants 10 Base Attack Damage. Completing all 3 Quests grants an additional 30 Base Attack Damage.

  2. 4

    • Taunt Heroic

      Silence a target Hero and force them to attack Varian for 1.25 seconds. Passive: Maximum Health and Health Regeneration increased by 40%.

    • Colossus Smash Heroic

      Smash a target enemy, dealing 185 (+4% per level) damage and lowering their Armor by 25 for 3 seconds, causing them to take 25% increased damage. Passive: Base Attack Damage increased by 100%. Passive: Maximum Health and Health Regeneration reduced by 10%.

    • Twin Blades of Fury Heroic

      Basic Attacks reduce Heroic Strike's cooldown by an additional 7 seconds, and increase Varian's Movement Speed by 30% for 2 seconds. Passive: Attack Speed increased by 100%. Passive: Base Attack Damage reduced by 25%.

  3. 7

    • Lionheart Q

      Increase Lion's Fang's healing from Heroes by 75%.

    • Second Wind Passive

      Basic Attacks heal Varian for 1% of his maximum Health. While below 50% Health, they also heal him for 50% of the damage dealt.

    • Victory Rush Passive

      Every 30 seconds, Varian's next Basic Attack will heal him for 350 (+4% per level) Health. When a nearby enemy Minion or Monster dies, the cooldown is reduced by 10 seconds.

  4. 10

    • Shield Wall W

      Parry grants Protected, preventing all incoming damage while active. Additionally, Parry's cooldown is reduced by 5 seconds, but it loses 1 charge.

    • Warbringer E

      Reduce Charge's cooldown by 8 seconds and Mana cost from 45 to 25. Additionally, Charge can be cast on allied Heroes.

  5. 13

    • Juggernaut E

      Charge deals bonus damage to Heroes equal to 4% of their maximum Health.

    • Mortal Strike Trait

      Heroes hit by Heroic Strike receive 40% reduced healing for 4 seconds.

    • Shattering Throw Active

      Activate to throw a sword at a target Hero that deals 50 (+4% per level) damage, and up to 1400 (+4% per level) bonus damage to their Shields. Passive: Basic Attacks against Heroes deal up to 200% bonus Physical Damage to Shields.

  6. 16

    • Banner of Stormwind Active

      Activate to place a Banner that grants 25% increased Movement Speed to nearby allied Heroes. Lasts 12 seconds.

    • Banner of Ironforge Active

      Activate to place a Banner that grants 20 Armor to nearby allied Heroes, reducing damage taken by 20%. Lasts 12 seconds.

    • Banner of Dalaran Active

      Activate to place a Banner that grants 20% increased Spell Power to nearby allied Heroes. Lasts 12 seconds.

  7. 20

    • Vigilance Heroic

      Being hit by a Hero Basic Attack reduces the cooldown of Taunt by 1 second.

    • Master at Arms Heroic

      Colossus Smash affects all enemies near the target, and its cooldown is reduced by 10 seconds.

    • Frenzy Passive

      Twin Blades of Fury increases Heroic Strike damage by an additional 25%, and Basic Attacks increase his Movement Speed by an additional 10%.

    • Glory to the Alliance Passive

      Banner now also increases health regeneration and all healing received for nearby allied Heroes by 50%, and the cooldown is reduced by 50%.

    • Demoralizing Shout Active

      Activate to demoralize nearby enemy Heroes, reducing damage they deal by 40% for 5 seconds. Each time an enemy Hero affected by Demoralizing Shout deals damage to a Hero, reduce its cooldown and Parry's cooldown by 5%.

  • Heroic Strike D Trait

    18 s cooldown

    Every 18 seconds, Varian's next Basic Attack deals 125 (+4% per level) bonus Spell Damage. Basic Attacks reduce this cooldown by 3 seconds.

  • Lion's Fang Q Ability

    8 s cooldown 50 Mana

    Create a shockwave that travels in a straight line, dealing 150 (+4% per level) damage and Slowing enemies by 35% for 1.5 seconds. Each enemy hit heals Varian for 35 (+4% per level), increased to 140 (+4% per level) against Heroes.

  • Parry W Ability

    10 s cooldown 30 Mana

    Parry all incoming Basic Attacks for 1.25 seconds, reducing their damage by 100%. Stores up to 2 charges.

  • Charge E Ability

    12 s cooldown 45 Mana

    Charge to the target enemy, dealing 50 (+4% per level) damage and Slowing them by 75% for 1 second.

  • Colossus Smash R Heroic

    20 s cooldown 40 Mana

    Smash a target enemy, dealing 185 (+4% per level) damage and lowering their Armor by 25 for 3 seconds, causing them to take 25% increased damage. Passive: Base Attack Damage increased by 100%. Passive: Maximum Health and Health Regeneration reduced by 10%.

  • Taunt R Heroic

    16 s cooldown 20 Mana

    Silence a target Hero and force them to attack Varian for 1.25 seconds. Passive: Maximum Health and Health Regeneration increased by 40%.

  • Twin Blades of Fury R Heroic

    Basic Attacks reduce Heroic Strike's cooldown by an additional 7 seconds, and increase Varian's Movement Speed by 30% for 2 seconds. Passive: Attack Speed increased by 100%. Passive: Base Attack Damage reduced by 25%.

Mechanics tags

What the theory layer reads from Varian'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

Silence
Ability Taunt “Silence a target Hero and force them to attack Varian for 1.25 seconds.”
Slow
Ability Lion's Fang “Create a shockwave that travels in a straight line, dealing 150 damage and Slowing enemies by 35% for 1.5 seconds.”
Ability Charge “Charge to the target enemy, dealing 50 damage and Slowing them by 75% for 1 second.”
Talent Lion's Maw “Reward: After hitting 25 Heroes, the Slow is increased to 50% and its duration is increased to 2 seconds.”
Taunt
Ability Taunt “Silence a target Hero and force them to attack Varian for 1.25 seconds.”

Defense and mobility

Block
Ability Parry “Parry all incoming Basic Attacks for 1.25 seconds, reducing their damage by 100%.”
Talent Overpower “When Parry blocks a Hero's Basic Attack, Heroic Strike's cooldown is refreshed and the next one does 40% more damage.”
Dash
Ability Charge “Charge to the target enemy, dealing 50 damage and Slowing them by 75% for 1 second.”
Invulnerable
Talent Shield Wall “Parry grants Protected, preventing all incoming damage while active.”
Self-healing
Ability Lion's Fang “Each enemy hit heals Varian for 35, increased to 140 against Heroes.”
Talent Second Wind “Basic Attacks heal Varian for 1% of his maximum Health.”
Talent Victory Rush “Every 30 seconds, Varian's next Basic Attack will heal him for 350 Health.”

Damage and macro

% Health damage
Talent Juggernaut “Charge deals bonus damage to Heroes equal to 4% of their maximum Health.”
Anti-heal
Talent Mortal Strike “Heroes hit by Heroic Strike receive 40% reduced healing for 4 seconds.”
Armor shred
Ability Colossus Smash “Smash a target enemy, dealing 185 damage and lowering their Armor by 25 for 3 seconds, causing them to take 25%…”

Play-style traits

Frontline
Curated note Taunt's passive adds 40% max Health and regeneration, turning Varian into an off-tank who soaks damage at the front.
Peel
Curated note Taunt silences a diver and forces them to attack Varian, and Parry blocks the basic attacks that follow.
  1. Heroes of the Storm Live Patch Notes, 30 Sep 2025 Patch Mixed

    1 buff, 1 nerf

    • NerfWarbringer: Mana cost reduction 22.5 → 20Level 10
    • BuffDemoralizing Shout: Cooldown reduction 2.5% → 5%Level 20
  2. Heroes of the Storm PTR Patch Notes, 2 Sep 2025 PTR Mixed

    1 buff, 2 nerfs

    • NerfWarbringer: Warbringer mana cost reduction 22.5 → 20Level 10
    • NerfWarbringer: Mana cost reduction 22.5 → 20Level 10
    • BuffDemoralizing Shout: Cooldown reduction 2.5% → 5%Level 20

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