Hank is a high-health, explosive-damage brawler that thrives in close-range engagements. His best build maximizes survivability (Barricade & Health Gear) and damage output (It’s Gonna Blow & Damage Gear). By playing carefully, positioning properly, and engaging at the right moments, Hank can dominate in objective-based modes like Gem Grab, Hot Zone, and Heist. Follow Cam Kline Music

Barricade
Hank takes 40% reduced damage for 3 seconds.

It's Gonna Blow
When Balloon Blast is charged over 80%, Hank gains 10% extra movement speed.

Damage
Deal 15% extra Damage when your Brawler is below 50% Health.

Health
Recover Health 50% more effectively.
Guide
Hank is a high-health brawler with a charge-up mechanic that allows him to deal explosive area damage. His strength lies in his ability to control space and deal massive burst damage, but his slow attack charge and vulnerability to long-range brawlers require a strategic approach.To maximize his effectiveness, the best build for Hank focuses on survivability and mobility, allowing him to charge attacks safely and engage enemies effectively.Gadget: Barricade
Barricade is the best gadget for Hank because it reduces incoming damage by 40% for three seconds, significantly increasing his survivability.Since Hank's attack requires time to charge for maximum damage, this gadget allows him to tank hits while preparing his shot.
It enables aggressive engagements, letting Hank push forward without being eliminated too quickly.
Against long-range brawlers like Piper or Bea, Barricade helps Hank close the distance while taking less damage.
In objective-based modes like Hot Zone or Heist, it allows Hank to stay in contested areas longer, making him a strong presence.
The alternative gadget, Water Balloon, releases an instant explosion, but it does not deal enough damage to compensate for Hank’s slow attack. Since Hank’s strength lies in his fully charged attack, Barricade is the superior choice.Hank's best star power is It’s Gonna Blow, which increases his movement speed by 20% while charging his attack.Hank’s main weakness is his slow attack charge, which makes him vulnerable. This star power allows him to move faster while preparing his shot, helping him dodge attacks and reposition.
It makes him less predictable, allowing him to pressure enemies and escape dangerous situations more easily.
The speed boost enables quicker engagements, helping Hank close the gap against long-range brawlers.
This star power is especially strong in Heist and Hot Zone, where positioning is crucial for controlling the map.
The alternative star power, Take Cover, provides a 25% shield when near walls, but it limits Hank’s mobility and is not useful in open maps. Since Hank benefits more from speed and positioning, It’s Gonna Blow is the better option.The Damage Gear increases Hank’s attack power when below 50% health, which is crucial for a tank-like brawler who often takes damage before engaging.Hank frequently takes chip damage while moving into position, so the increased damage helps him finish off enemies faster.
It pairs well with Barricade, allowing Hank to survive longer and deal even more damage.
In Heist, it allows Hank to maximize damage to the enemy safe, making him a strong pick for offensive strategies.
Health Gear
The Health Gear increases Hank’s healing speed, allowing him to recover faster when out of combat.Hank often retreats after attacking, and this gear allows him to return to the fight quicker.
It is especially useful in Gem Grab and Hot Zone, where Hank needs to stay in contested areas for as long as possible.
Helps counter poke damage from long-range brawlers, letting Hank regain health faster between engagements.
Other gears, such as Speed Gear, can be useful on bush-heavy maps, but Damage and Health are the most consistently effective choices.Playstyle and Strategy
Hank is best played as a high-health, area-control brawler who zones enemies with explosive attacks. His unique charge-up mechanic means he must position carefully and engage at the right moment.Positioning and Engagement
Stay behind cover while charging attacks to avoid getting hit by long-range brawlers.
Move unpredictably while charging, making it harder for enemies to land shots.
Engage with a fully charged attack—Hank’s attack deals massive area damage when fully prepared, so avoid using half-charged shots unless necessary.
Use walls to break line of sight, forcing enemies into positions where they cannot escape his attacks.
Using the Super Effectively
Hank’s Super sends out a large shockwave, dealing damage and knocking back enemies.Use it to push enemies away from objectives, such as in Gem Grab or Hot Zone.
Combo it with a charged attack for high burst damage.
Use it to escape aggressive enemies, such as Mortis or Edgar.
In Brawl Ball, the knockback can be used to disrupt enemy plays and clear defenders.
Dealing with Counters
Against long-range brawlers (Piper, Bea, Brock): Move unpredictably and use Barricade to absorb shots while closing the gap.
Against assassins (Edgar, Mortis, Leon): Save Super to knock them back, then hit them with a charged attack.
Against tanks (Bull, Darryl, Rosa): Charge attacks while kiting back, dealing massive damage before they reach you.
Game Modes

Gem Grab
Best maps: Hard Rock Mine, Double Swoosh, Deep Diner
Can control the center by forcing enemies away with charged attacks.
His Super is useful for knocking enemies away from gems.

Brawl Ball
Best maps: Pinhole Punt, Backyard Bowl, Sneaky Fields
His high health makes him a strong ball carrier.
His Super can clear enemies from the goal area, opening up scoring opportunities.

Hot Zone
Best maps: Ring of Fire, Parallel Plays, Dueling Beetles
Can zone enemies out of Hot Zones using his large splash attacks.
His Super can knock enemies out of capture areas.

Knockout
Best maps: Belle’s Rock, Goldarm Gulch
Hank can be effective if played patiently, using walls to avoid damage until he can get close enough to land a big attack.
Works Well With
About This Build
This build, THIS BUILD MAKES HANK THE BEST BRAWLER + Guide, was created by Nachitoooo on Feb 5, 2025. The build is for the Brawler, Hank, and uses the Barricade gadget, It's Gonna Blow star power, Damage gear, and Health gear. To see more, you can go here to view the best Hank build and others.
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