Whetstone
Heroes of the Storm

Patch 2.57 Updated

Support · Overwatch

Zarya

Defender of Russia

Role
Support
Attack
Ranged
Difficulty
Medium
Released
27 Sep 2016
Damage
5/10
Utility
7/10
Survivability
8/10
Complexity
7/10

Zarya is strong against

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

  1. Nova 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.
  2. Valeera Curated
    Why? 5
    • CuratedShield Ally absorbs Valeera's opener, and Cleansing Shield removes Cheap Shot's stun or Garrote's silence from the target. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield (level 16).via Shield Ally, Cleansing Shield, Blade Flurry, Eviscerate
    • TheoryZarya has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Valeera off a target.
    • TheoryZarya can deny a burst window, wasting Valeera's cooldowns.
    • TheoryZarya can ignore or remove crowd control (Cleansing Shield), weakening Valeera's stun. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
    • TheoryZarya's silence (Gravity Kills) can stop Valeera in the middle of a dive. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
  3. Kerrigan Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedShield Ally soaks the burst from Kerrigan's Ravage and Primal Grasp, and Cleansing Shield frees the target from Impaling Blades' stun so they can walk out before the combo finishes. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield (level 16).via Shield Ally, Cleansing Shield, Impaling Blades, Ravage
    • TheoryZarya has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Kerrigan off a target.
    • TheoryZarya can deny a burst window, wasting Kerrigan's cooldowns.
    • TheoryZarya's silence (Gravity Kills) can stop Kerrigan in the middle of a dive. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
  4. Illidan Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedShield Ally soaks Illidan's burst on a target while feeding Zarya Energy, and Expulsion Zone, if Zarya takes it, knocks him back and slows him whenever he re-enters.via Expulsion Zone, Shield Ally, Energy, Dive
    • TheoryZarya has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Illidan off a target.
    • TheoryZarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Illidan relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
    • TheoryZarya's silence (Gravity Kills) can stop Illidan in the middle of a dive. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
  5. Genji Theory
    Why? 4
    • TheoryZarya has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Genji off a target.
    • TheoryZarya can deny a burst window, wasting Genji's cooldowns.
    • TheoryZarya brings Spell Armor (Spell Barrier), which blunts Genji's ability burst. Only when Zarya takes Spell Barrier.
    • TheoryZarya's silence (Gravity Kills) can stop Genji in the middle of a dive. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
  6. Hanzo Theory
    Why? 4
    • TheoryZarya can deny a burst window, wasting Hanzo's cooldowns.
    • TheoryZarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Hanzo relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
    • TheoryZarya brings Spell Armor (Spell Barrier), which blunts Hanzo's ability burst. Only when Zarya takes Spell Barrier.
    • TheoryZarya can interrupt channels with silence (Gravity Kills), and Hanzo relies on channelled abilities. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
View 6 more
  1. Tracer 77 Theory Zarya has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Tracer off a target.
    3 more reasons
    • Zarya can deny a burst window, wasting Tracer's cooldowns.
    • Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Tracer relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
    • Zarya brings Spell Armor (Spell Barrier), which blunts Tracer's ability burst. Only when Zarya takes Spell Barrier.
  2. Xal'atath 77 Theory Zarya can deny a burst window, wasting Xal'atath's cooldowns.
    3 more reasons
    • Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Xal'atath relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
    • Zarya brings Spell Armor (Spell Barrier), which blunts Xal'atath's ability burst. Only when Zarya takes Spell Barrier.
    • Zarya can interrupt channels with silence (Gravity Kills), and Xal'atath relies on channelled abilities. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
  3. Orphea 74 Theory Zarya can deny a burst window, wasting Orphea's cooldowns.
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Orphea relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
    • Zarya brings Spell Armor (Spell Barrier), which blunts Orphea's ability burst. Only when Zarya takes Spell Barrier.
  4. Zeratul 74 Theory Zarya has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Zeratul off a target.
    3 more reasons
    • Zarya can deny a burst window, wasting Zeratul's cooldowns.
    • Zarya can ignore or remove crowd control (Cleansing Shield), weakening Zeratul's Time Stop. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield. Zeratul must also take Void Prison.
    • Zarya's silence (Gravity Kills) can stop Zeratul in the middle of a dive. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
  5. The Butcher 73 Theory Zarya has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel The Butcher off a target.
    3 more reasons
    • Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which The Butcher relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
    • Zarya can ignore or remove crowd control (Cleansing Shield), weakening The Butcher's stun. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield. The Butcher must also take Lamb to the Slaughter.
    • Zarya's silence (Gravity Kills) can stop The Butcher in the middle of a dive. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
  6. Thrall 73 Theory Zarya has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Thrall off a target.
    3 more reasons
    • Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Thrall relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
    • Zarya can ignore or remove crowd control (Cleansing Shield), weakening Thrall's stun. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield. Thrall must also take Sundering.
    • Zarya's silence (Gravity Kills) can stop Thrall in the middle of a dive. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
36 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. Artanis 71 Theory Zarya has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Artanis off a target.
  2. Greymane 71 Theory Zarya has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Greymane off a target.
  3. Kharazim 71 Theory Zarya has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Kharazim off a target.
  4. Li-Ming 71 Theory Zarya can deny a burst window, wasting Li-Ming's cooldowns.
  5. Tassadar 71 Theory Zarya can deny a burst window, wasting Tassadar's cooldowns.
  6. Chromie 69 Theory Zarya can deny a burst window, wasting Chromie's cooldowns.
  7. Jaina 67 Theory Zarya can deny a burst window, wasting Jaina's cooldowns.
  8. Junkrat 67 Theory Zarya can deny a burst window, wasting Junkrat's cooldowns.
  9. Kael'thas 67 Theory Zarya can deny a burst window, wasting Kael'thas's cooldowns.
  10. Mephisto 67 Theory Zarya has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Mephisto off a target.
  11. Probius 67 Theory Zarya can deny a burst window, wasting Probius's cooldowns.
  12. Cassia 66 Theory Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Cassia relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
  13. Maiev 65 Theory Zarya has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Maiev off a target.
  14. Qhira 65 Theory Zarya has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Qhira off a target.
  15. Alarak 64 Theory Zarya can deny a burst window, wasting Alarak's cooldowns.
  16. Murky 64 Theory Zarya can deny a burst window, wasting Murky's cooldowns.
  17. Fenix 63 Theory Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Fenix relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
  18. Sonya 63 Theory Zarya has the crowd control and body-blocking to peel Sonya off a target.
  19. Tychus 63 Theory Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Tychus relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
  20. Zul'jin 63 Theory Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Zul'jin relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
  21. Kel'Thuzad 60 Theory Zarya can deny a burst window, wasting Kel'Thuzad's cooldowns.
  22. Falstad 59 Theory Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Falstad relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
  23. Malthael 59 Theory Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Malthael relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
  24. Raynor 59 Theory Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Raynor relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
  25. Samuro 59 Theory Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Samuro relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
  26. Sgt. Hammer 59 Theory Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Sgt. Hammer relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
  27. Tyrande 59 Theory Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Tyrande relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
  28. Valla 59 Theory Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Valla relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
  29. Xul 59 Theory Zarya can block or armor against Basic Attacks (Defensive Shielding), which Xul relies on for damage. Only when Zarya takes Defensive Shielding.
  30. Anduin 57 Theory Zarya can interrupt channels with silence (Gravity Kills), and Anduin relies on channelled abilities. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
  31. Cho'gall 57 Theory Zarya can interrupt channels with silence (Gravity Kills), and Cho'gall relies on channelled abilities. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
  32. Deckard 57 Theory Zarya can interrupt channels with silence (Gravity Kills), and Deckard relies on channelled abilities. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
  33. Gul'dan 57 Theory Zarya can interrupt channels with silence (Gravity Kills), and Gul'dan relies on channelled abilities. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills. Gul'dan must also take Health Funnel.
  34. Mal'Ganis 57 Theory Zarya can interrupt channels with silence (Gravity Kills), and Mal'Ganis relies on channelled abilities. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills. Mal'Ganis must also take Dark Conversion.
  35. Malfurion 57 Theory Zarya can interrupt channels with silence (Gravity Kills), and Malfurion relies on channelled abilities. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills. Malfurion must also take Astral Communion.
  36. Stukov 57 Theory Zarya can interrupt channels with silence (Gravity Kills), and Stukov relies on channelled abilities. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.

Zarya is weak against

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

  1. Varian Curated
    Why? 2
    • CuratedShattering 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).via Shattering Throw, Personal Barrier, Shield Ally, Energy
    • TheoryVarian reduces enemy Armor (Colossus Smash), offsetting Zarya's Physical Armor. Only when Varian takes Colossus Smash. Zarya must also take Defensive Shielding.
  2. Lt. Morales Curated
    Why? 1
    • CuratedEMP Grenade deals up to 400 bonus damage to Shields, stripping Personal Barrier or Shield Ally before they can build Zarya Energy. Only when Lt. Morales takes EMP Grenade (level 13).via EMP Grenade, Personal Barrier, Shield Ally, Energy
  3. Rehgar Curated
    Why? 1
    • CuratedPurification makes Purge deal up to 330 damage to Shields and cut healing, popping Shield Ally or Personal Barrier on demand. Only when Rehgar takes Purification (level 7).via Purification, Purge, Shield Ally, Personal Barrier

Zarya works well with

Score 1–100 for how well the kits combine

  1. Tracer Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedShield Ally gives Tracer a buffer to dive deeper, and Graviton Surge, if Zarya takes it, holds enemies in place so Pulse Bomb sticks reliably.via Graviton Surge, Shield Ally, Pulse Bomb
    • TheoryZarya can save Tracer once the dive is committed.
    • TheoryZarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Tracer's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
    • TheoryZarya can cleanse crowd control off Tracer (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
  2. Artanis Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedGraviton Surge keeps enemies grouped so Blade Dash's return hits several heroes, each one cutting Shield Overload's cooldown by 2 seconds. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).via Graviton Surge, Blade Dash, Shield Overload
    • TheoryZarya can save Artanis once the dive is committed.
    • TheoryZarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Artanis's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
    • TheoryZarya can cleanse crowd control off Artanis (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
  3. Sgt. Hammer Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedShield Ally gives an immobile Siege Mode Hammer a 420-damage buffer against divers, and Expulsion Zone, if Zarya takes it, knocks them back off her.via Shield Ally, Expulsion Zone, Siege Mode
    • TheoryZarya peels divers off Sgt. Hammer, who cannot escape alone.
    • TheoryZarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Sgt. Hammer's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
    • TheoryZarya can cleanse crowd control off Sgt. Hammer (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
  4. Thrall Curated
    Why? 4
    • CuratedGraviton Surge groups enemies so Sundering's line stun or Earthquake's slowing pulses, whichever Thrall takes, hit all of them. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).via Graviton Surge, Sundering, Earthquake
    • TheoryZarya can save Thrall once the dive is committed.
    • TheoryZarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Thrall's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
    • TheoryZarya can cleanse crowd control off Thrall (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
  5. Chromie Curated
    Why? 3
    • CuratedGraviton Surge holds heroes in one spot so all three Dragon's Breath blasts land on the clump, and Sand Blast hits a target that cannot dodge. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).via Graviton Surge, Dragon's Breath, Sand Blast
    • TheoryZarya peels divers off Chromie, who cannot escape alone.
    • TheoryZarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Chromie's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge. Chromie must also take Mobius Loop.
  6. Genji Curated
    Why? 3
    • CuratedGraviton Surge holds heroes together for Dragonblade's arcs or X-Strike's delayed detonation. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).via Graviton Surge, Dragonblade, X-Strike
    • TheoryZarya can save Genji once the dive is committed.
    • TheoryZarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Genji's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
View 37 more
  1. Gul'dan 80 Curated Graviton Surge holds heroes together so Horrify fears the whole group, or Rain of Destruction's meteors keep landing on them. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya peels divers off Gul'dan, who cannot escape alone.
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Gul'dan's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  2. Kael'thas 80 Curated Graviton Surge pulls the enemy team into a ball for 2.5 seconds, the ideal setup for Flamestrike (which adds 8% of maximum health with Burned Flesh at level 7 when it hits two or more) and chained Living Bombs. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya peels divers off Kael'thas, who cannot escape alone.
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Kael'thas's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  3. Kerrigan 80 Curated Graviton Surge holds enemies together so Impaling Blades, and Maelstrom if Kerrigan takes it, hit several Heroes at once. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya can save Kerrigan once the dive is committed.
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Kerrigan's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  4. Mephisto 80 Curated Graviton Surge holds Heroes together for 2.5 seconds, so a Shade of Mephisto onto the group keeps all of them inside Lightning Nova as it ramps. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya can save Mephisto once the dive is committed.
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Mephisto's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  5. Nazeebo 80 Curated Graviton Surge holds enemies at one point, so a Zombie Wall cast on it traps the whole group for Ring of Poison (level 16) or Ravenous Spirit. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya peels divers off Nazeebo, who cannot escape alone.
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Nazeebo's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  6. Jaina 76 Curated Graviton Surge pins the enemy team together for 2.5 seconds, a perfect window for Blizzard's three waves or, if Jaina takes it, Ring of Frost's delayed root. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya can protect Jaina's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Jaina's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  7. Li-Ming 76 Curated Graviton Surge holds the enemy team in one spot, letting Disintegrate sweep several Heroes for its full 2.6 seconds. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10), and Li-Ming takes Disintegrate (level 10).
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya can protect Li-Ming's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Li-Ming's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge. Li-Ming must also take Wave of Force.
  8. Murky 76 Curated Graviton Surge holds enemies at its center for 2.5 seconds, so a Pufferfish placed there detonates on the whole pulled group. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya can protect Murky's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Murky's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  9. Azmodan 73 Curated Graviton Surge clumps heroes so one Globe of Annihilation hits several of them, which also refunds Mana through Art of Chaos at level 7. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
    1 more reason
    • Zarya peels divers off Azmodan, who cannot escape alone.
  10. Orphea 73 Curated Graviton Surge holds Heroes in place, so Eternal Feast keeps re-casting on them every second and Chomp lands on the whole group. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10), and Orphea takes Eternal Feast (level 10).
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Orphea's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
    • Zarya can cleanse crowd control off Orphea (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
  11. Qhira 73 Curated Graviton Surge pulls enemies together so Unrelenting Strikes' expanding sword stuns all of them for 1.5 seconds. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10), and Qhira takes Unrelenting Strikes (level 10).
    1 more reason
    • Zarya can save Qhira once the dive is committed.
  12. Sonya 73 Curated Shield Ally lets Sonya Whirlwind deep in the enemy team for longer, and with Together We Are Strong (level 1) her sustained damage also feeds Zarya's Energy.
    1 more reason
    • Zarya can save Sonya once the dive is committed.
  13. Xal'atath 73 Curated Graviton Surge holds enemies in place so Shadow Mark's center lands on several targets, and Void Eruption, if Xal'atath takes it, charges fully. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Xal'atath's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
    • Zarya can cleanse crowd control off Xal'atath (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
  14. Xul 73 Curated Shield Ally keeps Xul alive while he fights in melee, and when both take them, Graviton Surge groups enemies so Poison Nova's missiles hit all of them.
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Xul's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
    • Zarya can cleanse crowd control off Xul (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
  15. Chen 69 Curated Shield Ally stacks on top of Fortifying Brew, and Graviton Surge, if Zarya takes it, keeps enemies inside Keg Smash's brew.
  16. Alarak 68 Curated Graviton Surge holds enemies in a clump for 2.5 seconds, long enough for Discord Strike's delayed hit to silence several of them at once. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
    1 more reason
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Alarak's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  17. Junkrat 68 Curated Graviton Surge holds enemies in place for 2.5 seconds, so Frag Launcher grenades land without bouncing past their targets, or RIP-Tire, if Junkrat takes it, can drive into the middle. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
    1 more reason
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Junkrat's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  18. Ragnaros 68 Curated Graviton Surge drags enemies to one point for 2.5 seconds, so Living Meteor's roll, and Sulfuras Smash's center if Ragnaros takes it, hit several Heroes at once. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
    1 more reason
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Ragnaros's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  19. Alexstrasza 60 Curated Graviton Surge pins heroes together for 2.5 seconds under Cleansing Flame, and Zarya's shields absorb damage while Gift of Life and Abundance catch up. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10), and Alexstrasza takes Cleansing Flame (level 10).
  20. Blaze 60 Curated Graviton Surge holds heroes inside Ignited Oil Spill, and Combustion's area if Blaze takes it, for 2.5 seconds. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
  21. Cho'gall 60 Curated Graviton Surge and Upheaval chain into several seconds of grouped enemies for Gall's Shadowflame and Runic Blast. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10), and Cho takes Upheaval (level 10).
  22. D.Va 60 Curated Graviton Surge holds enemies in one spot so the center of Self-Destruct lands on several of them. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
  23. Deckard 60 Curated Graviton Surge holds heroes inside the forming Scroll of Sealing so it roots several at once, and with Scroll of Stone Curse (level 16) it deals 200% more damage when it catches two or more. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
  24. Gazlowe 60 Curated Graviton Surge holds enemies in place for Xplodium Charge's 1.25-second fuse. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
  25. Stukov 60 Curated Graviton Surge holds enemies inside Lurking Arm's silence, and with Virulent Reaction (level 13) a Weighted Pustule detonating there roots them. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
  26. Sylvanas 60 Curated Graviton Surge holds enemies together so Wailing Arrow's center Silence, and Deafening Blast's bonus damage at level 20, lands on several Heroes at once. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10), and Sylvanas takes Wailing Arrow (level 10).
  27. Tyrael 60 Curated Graviton Surge holds enemies in place while El'druin's Might's slow, and Judgment if Tyrael takes it, keep them there for the team's follow-up. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge (level 10).
  28. Whitemane 60 Curated Shield Ally protects a fragile Whitemane from divers, and when both take them, Graviton Surge holds enemies inside Divine Reckoning's area.
  29. Yrel 60 Curated Shield Ally covers Yrel while she's slowed charging abilities, and Graviton Surge, if Zarya takes it, holds enemies for a fully charged Righteous Hammer or Vindication.
  30. Greymane 77 Theory Zarya can save Greymane once the dive is committed.
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Greymane's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
    • Zarya can cleanse crowd control off Greymane (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
  31. Illidan 77 Theory Zarya can save Illidan once the dive is committed.
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Illidan's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
    • Zarya can cleanse crowd control off Illidan (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
  32. Raynor 77 Theory Zarya peels divers off Raynor, who cannot escape alone.
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Raynor's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
    • Zarya can cleanse crowd control off Raynor (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
  33. The Butcher 77 Theory Zarya can save The Butcher once the dive is committed.
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for The Butcher's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge. The Butcher must also take Furnace Blast or Cleaver.
    • Zarya can cleanse crowd control off The Butcher (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
  34. Zul'jin 77 Theory Zarya peels divers off Zul'jin, who cannot escape alone.
    2 more reasons
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Zul'jin's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
    • Zarya can cleanse crowd control off Zul'jin (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
  35. Kel'Thuzad 72 Theory Zarya peels divers off Kel'Thuzad, who cannot escape alone.
    1 more reason
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Kel'Thuzad's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  36. Valeera 72 Theory Zarya can save Valeera once the dive is committed.
    1 more reason
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Valeera's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  37. Zeratul 72 Theory Zarya can save Zeratul once the dive is committed.
    1 more reason
    • Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Zeratul's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
18 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. Kharazim 70 Theory Zarya can save Kharazim once the dive is committed.
  2. Nova 68 Theory Zarya can protect Nova's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  3. Probius 68 Theory Zarya can protect Probius's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  4. Fenix 65 Theory Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Fenix's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  5. Hanzo 65 Theory Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Hanzo's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge. Hanzo must also take Dragon's Arrow or Explosive Arrows.
  6. Maiev 65 Theory Zarya can save Maiev once the dive is committed.
  7. Samuro 65 Theory Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Samuro's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge. Samuro must also take Bladestorm or Burning Blade.
  8. Tychus 65 Theory Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Tychus's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge. Tychus must also take Melting Point.
  9. Valla 65 Theory Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Valla's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  10. Abathur 60 Theory Zarya can protect Abathur's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  11. The Lost Vikings 60 Theory Zarya can protect The Lost Vikings's fragile body when the enemy hunts it.
  12. Lunara 59 Theory Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Lunara's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  13. Tassadar 59 Theory Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Tassadar's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  14. Zagara 59 Theory Zarya groups or freezes enemies (Graviton Surge) for Zagara's area damage. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  15. Cassia 56 Theory Zarya can cleanse crowd control off Cassia (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
  16. Falstad 56 Theory Zarya can cleanse crowd control off Falstad (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
  17. Malthael 56 Theory Zarya can cleanse crowd control off Malthael (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.
  18. Tyrande 56 Theory Zarya can cleanse crowd control off Tyrande (Cleansing Shield) to keep the attacks coming. Only when Zarya takes Cleansing Shield.

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 Zarya

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

  1. Alterac Pass Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryZarya can group or freeze enemies (Graviton Surge) in Alterac Pass's objective fights. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  2. Battlefield of Eternity Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryZarya can group or freeze enemies (Graviton Surge) in Battlefield of Eternity's objective fights. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  3. Braxis Holdout Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryZarya can group or freeze enemies (Graviton Surge) in Braxis Holdout's objective fights. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  4. Braxis Outpost Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryZarya can group or freeze enemies (Graviton Surge) in Braxis Outpost's objective fights. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  5. Hanamura Temple Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryZarya can group or freeze enemies (Graviton Surge) in Hanamura Temple's objective fights. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  6. Industrial District Theory
    Why? 1
    • TheoryZarya can group or freeze enemies (Graviton Surge) in Industrial District's objective fights. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
View 10 more
  1. Infernal Shrines 54 Theory Zarya can group or freeze enemies (Graviton Surge) in Infernal Shrines's objective fights. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  2. Lost Cavern 54 Theory Zarya can group or freeze enemies (Graviton Surge) in Lost Cavern's objective fights. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  3. Silver City 54 Theory Zarya can group or freeze enemies (Graviton Surge) in Silver City's objective fights. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  4. Sky Temple 54 Theory Zarya can group or freeze enemies (Graviton Surge) in Sky Temple's objective fights. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  5. Volskaya Foundry 54 Theory Zarya can group or freeze enemies (Graviton Surge) in Volskaya Foundry's objective fights. Only when Zarya takes Graviton Surge.
  6. Blackheart's Bay 53 Theory Zarya's silence (Gravity Kills) stops enemies channelling Blackheart's Bay's objective. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
  7. Cursed Hollow 53 Theory Zarya's silence (Gravity Kills) stops enemies channelling Cursed Hollow's objective. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
  8. Dragon Shire 53 Theory Zarya's silence (Gravity Kills) stops enemies channelling Dragon Shire's objective. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
  9. Towers of Doom 53 Theory Zarya's silence (Gravity Kills) stops enemies channelling Towers of Doom's objective. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.
  10. Warhead Junction 53 Theory Zarya's silence (Gravity Kills) stops enemies channelling Warhead Junction's objective. Only when Zarya takes Gravity Kills.

All maps

Talents by level

  1. 1

    • Demolitions Expert Q Quest

      Quest: For every 5 enemy Heroes hit by Particle Grenade, its recharge rate lowers by 0.4375 seconds, up to 3.5 seconds. Reward: Once Particle Grenade has hit 40 enemy Heroes, its radius is increased by 15%.

    • Together We Are Strong E

      For 3 seconds after gaining Shield Ally, every 5.35 (+4% per level) damage done by the bearer contributes 1 Energy to Zarya, up to 40 Energy per Shield.

    • Feel the Heat Trait

      Zarya's Basic Attack deals 50% additional damage to enemies in melee range. While above 40 Energy, Zarya's Basic Attack size is increased by 35%.

    • Maximum Charge Trait Quest

      Regen Globes now instantly grant 20 Energy. Quest: Spend 150 seconds at or above 50 Energy. Reward: Gain an additional 20 maximum Energy.

  2. 4

    • I Am the Strongest W

      Personal Barrier absorbs an additional 140 (+4% per level) damage. Passive: Damage absorbed by Zarya's Shields contributes 20% more Energy.

    • Give Me Twenty E Quest

      Quest: Regeneration Globes increase Shield Ally absorb amount by 15, up to 300 permanently. Reward: After collecting 20 Regen Globes, permanently reduce the cooldown of Shield Ally by 2 seconds.

    • Speed Barrier E

      Shield Ally increases the allied Hero's Movement Speed by 50% for the duration.

    • Defensive Shielding Passive

      Upon expiration or breaking, Personal Barrier and Shield Ally grant 75 Physical Armor against the next 2 Hero Basic Attacks for 6 seconds, reducing the damage taken by 75%.

  3. 7

    • Pinpoint Accuracy Q

      Particle Grenade deals 25 (+4% per level) more damage and Slows Movement Speed by 25% for 2 seconds to enemies hit by the center of the blast.

    • Deep Burn Q

      Hitting a Hero with Particle Grenade causes Basic Attacks against them to generate 2 Energy. Lasts 4 seconds.

    • Explosive Barrier W

      Upon expiration or breaking, Personal Barrier explodes, dealing 110 (+4% per level) damage to nearby enemies.

  4. 10

    • Graviton Surge Heroic

      Launch a gravity bomb that detonates after 1 second and draws enemy Heroes toward the center for 2.5 seconds. Affected Heroes take 30 (+4% per level) damage a second.

    • Expulsion Zone Heroic

      Launch a gravity bomb that deals 124 (+4% per level) damage and creates an expulsion zone for 3.5 seconds. Enemies who enter the affected area are knocked back and have their Movement Speed reduced by 50% for 1 second.

  5. 13

    • Unstoppable Competitor W

      Personal Barrier makes Zarya Unstoppable for up to 2 seconds.

    • Spell Barrier W

      Upon expiration or breaking, Personal Barrier grants Zarya 75 Spell Armor for 3 seconds, reducing the damage taken from Abilities by 75%.

    • Endurance Training Trait

      While at or above 75 Energy, Zarya gains 20 Armor, reducing all damage taken by 20%.

    • Pain is Temporary Active

      Activate to consume all Energy and gain a Shield that absorbs 0.8% of Zarya's maximum Health per Energy consumed and lasts for 3 seconds. Zarya may only have one personal Shield active on herself at a time.

  6. 16

    • Cleansing Shield E

      Causes Shield Ally to remove all disabling effects and reduces its cooldown by 3 seconds.

    • Gain Train E

      Shield Ally now grants an untalented Shield to a nearby ally upon impact.

    • Born in Battle Trait

      While at or above 75 Energy, Zarya's cooldowns regenerate 25% faster.

  7. 20

    • Gravity Kills Heroic

      Increases Graviton Surge's duration by 1 second and it Silences Heroes caught in its area.

    • Clear Out Heroic

      Reduce Expulsion Zone's cooldown by 25 seconds and increase its duration by 1.5 seconds.

    • Grenadier Q

      All Particle Grenade charges are returned at once.

    • Unyielding Defender Active

      Activate to reset the cooldown of Personal Barrier and Shield Ally.

  • Energy D Trait

    Each time Zarya's Personal Barrier or Shield Ally absorbs 9 (+4% per level) damage, her Energy is increased by 1. Each point of Energy increases Zarya's damage by 2%. After 0.5 seconds, Energy decays by 3 per second.

  • Particle Grenade Q Ability

    8 s cooldown

    Launch a particle grenade that deals 80 (+4% per level) damage to enemies within the area. Deals 50% damage to Structures. Stores up to 4 charges.

  • Personal Barrier W Ability

    10 s cooldown

    Gain a Shield that absorbs 560 (+4% per level) damage for 3 seconds.

  • Shield Ally E Ability

    12 s cooldown

    Grants an allied Hero a Shield that absorbs 420 (+4% per level) damage for 3 seconds.

  • Expulsion Zone R Heroic

    45 s cooldown

    Launch a gravity bomb that deals 124 (+4% per level) damage and creates an expulsion zone for 3.5 seconds. Enemies who enter the affected area are knocked back and have their Movement Speed reduced by 50% for 1 second.

  • Graviton Surge R Heroic

    60 s cooldown

    Launch a gravity bomb that detonates after 1 second and draws enemy Heroes toward the center for 2.5 seconds. Affected Heroes take 30 (+4% per level) damage a second.

Mechanics tags

What the theory layer reads from Zarya'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

Displacement
Ability Expulsion Zone “Enemies who enter the affected area are knocked back and have their Movement Speed reduced by 50% for 1 second.”
Pull
Ability Graviton Surge “Launch a gravity bomb that detonates after 1 second and draws enemy Heroes toward the center for 2.5 seconds.”
Silence
Talent Gravity Kills “Increases Graviton Surge's duration by 1 second and it Silences Heroes caught in its area.”
Slow
Talent Pinpoint Accuracy “Particle Grenade deals 25 more damage and Slows Movement Speed by 25% for 2 seconds to enemies hit by the center of…”

Defense and mobility

Block
Talent Defensive Shielding “…Personal Barrier and Shield Ally grant 75 Physical Armor against the next 2 Hero Basic Attacks for 6 seconds,…”
Cleanse
Talent Cleansing Shield “Causes Shield Ally to remove all disabling effects and reduces its cooldown by 3 seconds.”
Physical Armor
Talent Defensive Shielding “…breaking, Personal Barrier and Shield Ally grant 75 Physical Armor against the next 2 Hero Basic Attacks for 6…”
Shields
Ability Personal Barrier “Gain a Shield that absorbs 560 damage for 3 seconds.”
Ability Shield Ally “Grants an allied Hero a Shield that absorbs 420 damage for 3 seconds.”
Talent Pain is Temporary “Activate to consume all Energy and gain a Shield that absorbs 0.8% of Zarya's maximum Health per Energy consumed and…”
Talent Gain Train “Shield Ally now grants an untalented Shield to a nearby ally upon impact.”
Spell Armor
Talent Spell Barrier “…or breaking, Personal Barrier grants Zarya 75 Spell Armor for 3 seconds, reducing the damage taken from…”
Unstoppable
Talent Unstoppable Competitor “Personal Barrier makes Zarya Unstoppable for up to 2 seconds.”

Damage and macro

Area damage
Ability Particle Grenade “Launch a particle grenade that deals 80 damage to enemies within the area.”
Talent Pinpoint Accuracy “Particle Grenade deals 25 more damage and Slows Movement Speed by 25% for 2 seconds to enemies hit by the center of…”
Talent Explosive Barrier “Upon expiration or breaking, Personal Barrier explodes, dealing 110 damage to nearby enemies.”

Play-style traits

Peel
Curated note Expulsion Zone knocks divers back and slows them whenever they re-enter, while Particle Grenade punishes them.
Save
Curated note Shield Ally absorbs 420 damage on an ally, and Cleansing Shield can also strip disables off them.

No patch notes for Zarya in this data yet.

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Guides and builds

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