Universal Tower Defense Winter Tier List (March 2026) Full Guide
Are you struggling to build the perfect defense in Universal Tower Defense? With the new March 2026 winter update shaking up the meta, knowing which units to invest in has never been more crucial. After countless hours of testing and analyzing the current game state, I’ve compiled the most comprehensive tier list to help you dominate every wave.
In this guide, you’ll discover exactly which units are worth your gems, how to position them for maximum effectiveness, and what strategies the top players are using right now. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned veteran, this tier list will give you the competitive edge you need to conquer the winter challenges.
Quick Reference: Top Units by Tier
| Tier | Best Units | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|
| S | King Vegeta, Eraser, Spirit Bomb Goku | Game-changing abilities |
| A | Super Saiyan 2 Gohan, Luffy (Gear 4), Naruto (Six Paths) | Reliable powerhouses |
| B | Super Saiyan Goku, Vegeta (Super Saiyan), Natsu (Dragon Force) | Solid situational picks |
| C | Luffy (Base), Naruto (Sage Mode), Ichigo (Shikai) | Niche utility |
| D | Base Goku, Base Vegeta, Natsu (Base) | Limited effectiveness |
Understanding the Tier System
Before diving into the specific units, it’s important to understand how I’ve ranked them. The tier system isn’t just about raw power—it’s about overall effectiveness in the current meta, considering factors like:
- Damage Output: How much damage a unit can deal to enemies
- Range: How far a unit can attack from
- Special Abilities: Unique skills that can turn the tide of battle
- Cost Efficiency: Value for the investment required
- Synergy: How well the unit works with others in a team composition
- Versatility: Performance across different game modes and situations
Tier Definitions
- S-Tier: These units are game-changers that can single-handedly determine the outcome of difficult waves. If you have access to these units, they should almost always be in your lineup.
- A-Tier: Excellent units that perform consistently well across most situations. They may not be as game-changing as S-tier units, but they’re reliable and powerful.
- B-Tier: Good units that excel in specific situations but may be outclassed by higher-tier options in most scenarios. They’re worth considering if they complement your team composition.
- C-Tier: Average units with limited use cases. They might have niche applications but are generally outperformed by higher-tier options.
- D-Tier: Units that are generally not worth investing in due to poor performance or being outclassed by better alternatives.
S-Tier Units: The Best of the Best
These are the units that define the current meta. If you’re lucky enough to obtain any of these, they should form the core of your defense strategy.
King Vegeta
King Vegeta stands at the pinnacle of the current meta for good reason. His combination of massive AoE damage and the ability to slow enemies makes him invaluable in almost any situation.
Key Strengths:
- Highest damage output among all Vegeta variants
- Excellent range that covers most of the map
- Special ability that damages and slows all enemies on screen
- Cost-effective for his power level
Best Placement: Place King Vegeta in a central position where he can cover the most ground. His range is impressive, but positioning him centrally maximizes his effectiveness against waves coming from multiple directions.
Synergies: King Vegeta works exceptionally well with units that can group enemies together, such as Madara (Rinne) or Gojo (Limitless). This allows his AoE attacks to hit maximum targets.
Winter Update Impact: The recent winter update has slightly increased his attack speed against ice-type enemies, making him even more valuable in the new winter-themed maps.
Eraser
Eraser is a unique support unit that has become indispensable in the current meta. While it doesn’t deal impressive damage on its own, its ability to completely nullify enemy abilities makes it a game-changer.
Key Strengths:
- Can erase enemy special abilities, rendering many dangerous enemies harmless
- Low cost for its utility value
- Decent range that allows it to affect multiple enemies
- Essential for countering boss enemies with devastating abilities
Best Placement: Position Eraser where it can affect the most enemies before they reach your main damage dealers. It’s often best placed near the front of your defense but protected by tankier units.
Synergies: Eraser pairs well with high-damage units like Spirit Bomb Goku or Broly (DBS) that would otherwise struggle against enemies with defensive abilities.
Winter Update Impact: No significant changes to Eraser in the winter update, but its value has increased as many new winter enemies have powerful abilities that need to be countered.
Spirit Bomb Goku
Spirit Bomb Goku represents the pinnacle of single-target damage in Universal Tower Defense. His ability to charge up devastating attacks makes him essential for taking down high-health boss enemies.
Key Strengths:
- Unmatched single-target damage
- Charging mechanic that rewards strategic timing
- Excellent range
- Can one-shot most non-boss enemies when fully charged
Best Placement: Place Spirit Bomb Goku where he has a clear line of sight to the enemy path. He needs time to charge his attacks, so positioning him early on the path is crucial.
Synergies: Units that can slow or stall enemies, like King Vegeta or Gojo (Limitless), give Spirit Bomb Goku the time needed to charge his devastating attacks.
Winter Update Impact: The winter update has slightly reduced his charge time against ice-themed enemies, making him more effective in the new seasonal content.
Broly (DBS)
Broly (DBS) is a powerhouse that combines impressive damage with surprising durability. His ability to attack multiple targets makes him valuable against both waves and individual tough enemies.
Key Strengths:
- High damage output that hits multiple enemies
- Above-average health for a damage dealer
- Special ability that increases his damage as his health decreases
- Excellent value for his cost
Best Placement: Broly works best in positions where he can attack groups of enemies. Corner placements where paths converge are ideal for maximizing his multi-hit capabilities.
Synergies: Broly benefits from healing units that can keep him at optimal health, allowing his damage-increasing ability to activate without risking his defeat.
Winter Update Impact: A new ice variant of Broly was introduced in the winter update, with slightly different abilities but similar power level. The original remains top-tier.
Gogeta
Gogeta is the ultimate fusion unit that combines speed, power, and versatility. His balanced stats make him valuable in almost any situation.
Key Strengths:
- Excellent balance of damage, range, and attack speed
- Special ability that temporarily boosts all nearby allies
- Effective against both single targets and groups
- No significant weaknesses
Best Placement: Gogeta’s versatility allows for flexible positioning, but he’s most effective in the middle of your defense where his ability boost can affect the most allies.
Synergies: Gogeta enhances the effectiveness of any units placed near him, making him an excellent centerpiece for diverse team compositions.
Winter Update Impact: Gogeta received a minor buff to his ability duration in the winter update, increasing his value as a support unit.
Vegito
Similar to Gogeta, Vegito is another fusion unit that excels in different areas. While Gogeta is more balanced, Vegito specializes in devastating single-target damage.
Key Strengths:
- Incredible single-target damage
- Special ability that marks an enemy for increased damage from all sources
- Good range for a single-target specialist
- Excellent against boss enemies
Best Placement: Position Vegito where he has a clear shot at high-health enemies. His range is good but not exceptional, so careful placement is key.
Synergies: Vegito’s marking ability synergizes well with other high-damage units, creating devastating focus-fire combinations against tough enemies.
Winter Update Impact: Vegito’s marking ability now lasts slightly longer against ice-themed enemies, making him more valuable in the new winter content.
Meliodas
Meliodas brings unique utility to the table with his combination of damage and crowd control. His ability to knock back enemies can be game-changing in tight situations.
Key Strengths:
- Good damage output with knockback effect
- Special ability that can push enemies back significantly
- Excellent range
- Valuable for managing enemy positioning
Best Placement: Meliodas excels at choke points where his knockback can create space and delay enemy advances. Position him where enemies are likely to group up.
Synergies: Meliodas works well with area damage units that benefit from grouped enemies, such as King Vegeta or Broly (DBS).
Winter Update Impact: The winter update introduced a new ice-themed variant of Meliodas with freezing abilities instead of knockback, offering an alternative playstyle.
Whitebeard
Whitebeard is the ultimate area damage unit, capable of devastating entire waves with his powerful attacks. His special ability can turn the tide of difficult waves.
Key Strengths:
- Massive area damage
- Special ability that damages and stuns all enemies on screen
- Good range for an area damage unit
- Essential for clearing large waves quickly
Best Placement: Whitebeard needs a position with good visibility of multiple enemy paths to maximize his area damage potential.
Synergies: Units that can group enemies together enhance Whitebeard’s effectiveness by allowing his attacks to hit more targets.
Winter Update Impact: Whitebeard received a slight damage buff against ice-themed enemies in the winter update, increasing his value in seasonal content.
Madara (Rinne)
Madara (Rinne) is a versatile unit that combines damage with unique utility. His ability to pull enemies together makes him invaluable for setting up devastating area attacks.
Key Strengths:
- Good damage output
- Special ability that pulls enemies together
- Excellent range
- Perfect for setting up area damage combos
Best Placement: Position Madara where his pulling ability can gather enemies from multiple paths into a tight group.
Synergies: Madara is the perfect setup for area damage units like Whitebeard or King Vegeta, creating devastating combinations.
Winter Update Impact: Madara’s pulling ability now works slightly faster against ice-themed enemies, making him more valuable in the new winter content.
Speedwagon
Speedwagon is a unique support unit that provides invaluable buffs to your entire team. His ability to increase the damage of all nearby units makes him essential for maximizing your defense potential.
Key Strengths:
- Significant damage boost to all nearby allies
- Low cost for his utility value
- Good range for his buff ability
- Essential for maximizing team damage output
Best Placement: Position Speedwagon where his damage buff can affect the most important damage dealers in your team.
Synergies: Speedwagon enhances the effectiveness of any damage-dealing units, making him a versatile addition to any team composition.
Winter Update Impact: Speedwagon received a slight buff to his damage increase percentage in the winter update, making him even more valuable for maximizing team damage.
A-Tier Units: Excellent Choices
These units are consistently strong performers that may not be as game-changing as S-tier units but are still excellent choices for most situations.
Super Saiyan 2 Gohan
Super Saiyan 2 Gohan is a well-rounded unit that excels at dealing consistent damage to both single targets and groups. His balanced stats make him a reliable choice in most situations.
Key Strengths:
- Good damage output against both single targets and groups
- Balanced stats with no significant weaknesses
- Special ability that temporarily increases his attack speed
- Cost-effective for his power level
Best Placement: Gohan’s versatility allows for flexible positioning, but he’s most effective in the middle of your defense where he can target multiple enemy paths.
Synergies: Gohan works well with support units that can enhance his damage or attack speed, such as Speedwagon or Gogeta.
Winter Update Impact: Gohan received a minor buff to his attack speed in the winter update, slightly increasing his damage output.
Final Form Frieza
Final Form Frieza is a powerful damage dealer with excellent range. His ability to attack from a safe distance makes him valuable for dealing with dangerous enemies.
Key Strengths:
- Excellent range that allows him to attack from safety
- High damage output
- Special ability that deals massive damage to a single target
- Effective against both waves and boss enemies
Best Placement: Position Frieza where he has a clear line of sight to enemy paths from a safe distance. His range allows him to be positioned further back than many other units.
Synergies: Frieza works well with units that can slow or stall enemies, giving him more time to deal damage.
Winter Update Impact: Frieza received a slight range increase in the winter update, making him even more effective at attacking from a safe distance.
Luffy (Gear 4)
Luffy (Gear 4) is a powerful unit that combines impressive damage with the ability to knock back enemies. His balanced stats make him valuable in most situations.
Key Strengths:
- Good damage output with knockback effect
- Balanced stats with no significant weaknesses
- Special ability that deals massive damage in a large area
- Effective against both waves and single targets
Best Placement: Luffy works well at choke points where his knockback can delay enemy advances and give your other units more time to attack.
Synergies: Luffy’s knockback ability synergizes well with area damage units that benefit from grouped enemies.
Winter Update Impact: A new ice-themed variant of Luffy (Gear 4) was introduced in the winter update, with freezing abilities instead of knockback.
Zoro (Three Sword Style)
Zoro (Three Sword Style) is a powerful damage dealer with excellent range. His ability to attack multiple enemies at once makes him valuable against waves.
Key Strengths:
- Good damage output that hits multiple enemies
- Excellent range
- Special ability that increases his damage for a limited time
- Effective against both waves and single targets
Best Placement: Position Zoro where he has a clear line of sight to multiple enemy paths to maximize his multi-hit capabilities.
Synergies: Zoro works well with units that can group enemies together, allowing his attacks to hit more targets.
Winter Update Impact: Zoro received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, slightly increasing his effectiveness.
Naruto (Six Paths)
Naruto (Six Paths) is a versatile unit that combines damage with unique utility. His ability to create shadow clones makes him valuable for dealing with large waves.
Key Strengths:
- Good damage output
- Special ability that creates shadow clones to attack enemies
- Balanced stats with no significant weaknesses
- Effective against both waves and single targets
Best Placement: Position Naruto where his shadow clones can effectively attack multiple enemy paths.
Synergies: Naruto works well with units that can enhance his damage or the effectiveness of his shadow clones.
Winter Update Impact: Naruto’s shadow clones now last slightly longer against ice-themed enemies, making him more valuable in the new winter content.
Sasuke (Rinnegan)
Sasuke (Rinnegan) is a powerful damage dealer with excellent range. His ability to attack multiple enemies at once makes him valuable against waves.
Key Strengths:
- Good damage output that hits multiple enemies
- Excellent range
- Special ability that deals massive damage in a large area
- Effective against both waves and single targets
Best Placement: Position Sasuke where he has a clear line of sight to multiple enemy paths to maximize his multi-hit capabilities.
Synergies: Sasuke works well with units that can group enemies together, allowing his attacks to hit more targets.
Winter Update Impact: Sasuke received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, slightly increasing his effectiveness.
Ichigo (Bankai)
Ichigo (Bankai) is a powerful damage dealer with excellent range. His ability to attack multiple enemies at once makes him valuable against waves.
Key Strengths:
- Good damage output that hits multiple enemies
- Excellent range
- Special ability that increases his damage for a limited time
- Effective against both waves and single targets
Best Placement: Position Ichigo where he has a clear line of sight to multiple enemy paths to maximize his multi-hit capabilities.
Synergies: Ichigo works well with units that can group enemies together, allowing his attacks to hit more targets.
Winter Update Impact: Ichigo received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, slightly increasing his effectiveness.
Kirito (Dual Blades)
Kirito (Dual Blades) is a versatile unit that combines speed with damage. His ability to attack quickly makes him valuable for dealing with large waves.
Key Strengths:
- Excellent attack speed
- Good damage output
- Special ability that increases his attack speed even further
- Effective against both waves and single targets
Best Placement: Position Kirito where he can attack multiple enemies at once to maximize his quick attacks.
Synergies: Kirito works well with units that can enhance his damage or attack speed.
Winter Update Impact: Kirito received a minor buff to his attack speed in the winter update, slightly increasing his damage output.
Rimuru (Demon Lord)
Rimuru (Demon Lord) is a versatile unit that combines damage with unique utility. His ability to devour enemies makes him valuable for dealing with dangerous foes.
Key Strengths:
- Good damage output
- Special ability that can instantly defeat non-boss enemies
- Balanced stats with no significant weaknesses
- Effective against both waves and single targets
Best Placement: Position Rimuru where his devour ability can affect the most enemies.
Synergies: Rimuru works well with units that can weaken enemies, making them more susceptible to his devour ability.
Winter Update Impact: Rimuru’s devour ability now works slightly faster against ice-themed enemies, making him more valuable in the new winter content.
Gojo (Limitless)
Gojo (Limitless) is a unique unit that combines damage with crowd control. His ability to slow enemies makes him valuable for managing enemy positioning.
Key Strengths:
- Good damage output with slow effect
- Special ability that can stop enemies in their tracks
- Excellent range
- Valuable for managing enemy positioning
Best Placement: Position Gojo where his slow effect can affect the most enemies.
Synergies: Gojo works well with area damage units that benefit from slowed enemies.
Winter Update Impact: Gojo received a minor buff to his slow effect in the winter update, making him even more valuable for managing enemy positioning.
B-Tier Units: Good, Situational Choices
These units are solid choices that excel in specific situations but may be outclassed by higher-tier options in most scenarios. They’re worth considering if they complement your team composition.
Super Saiyan Goku
Super Saiyan Goku is a decent damage dealer with good range. While he’s outclassed by many higher-tier options, he can still be effective in the right situations.
Key Strengths:
- Decent damage output
- Good range
- Special ability that increases his damage for a limited time
- Cost-effective for his power level
Best Placement: Position Goku where he has a clear line of sight to enemy paths.
Synergies: Goku works well with units that can enhance his damage or attack speed.
Winter Update Impact: Goku received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in B-tier due to better alternatives.
Vegeta (Super Saiyan)
Vegeta (Super Saiyan) is a decent damage dealer with good range. While he’s outclassed by many higher-tier options, he can still be effective in the right situations.
Key Strengths:
- Decent damage output
- Good range
- Special ability that deals massive damage to a single target
- Cost-effective for his power level
Best Placement: Position Vegeta where he has a clear line of sight to enemy paths.
Synergies: Vegeta works well with units that can slow or stall enemies, giving him more time to deal damage.
Winter Update Impact: Vegeta received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in B-tier due to better alternatives.
Luffy (Gear 2)
Luffy (Gear 2) is a decent damage dealer with good attack speed. While he’s outclassed by many higher-tier options, he can still be effective in the right situations.
Key Strengths:
- Decent damage output
- Excellent attack speed
- Special ability that increases his attack speed even further
- Cost-effective for his power level
Best Placement: Position Luffy where he can attack multiple enemies at once to maximize his quick attacks.
Synergies: Luffy works well with units that can enhance his damage or attack speed.
Winter Update Impact: Luffy received a minor buff to his attack speed in the winter update, but he remains in B-tier due to better alternatives.
Natsu (Dragon Force)
Natsu (Dragon Force) is a decent damage dealer with good area damage. While he’s outclassed by many higher-tier options, he can still be effective in the right situations.
Key Strengths:
- Decent area damage
- Good range
- Special ability that deals massive damage in a large area
- Cost-effective for his power level
Best Placement: Position Natsu where he has a clear line of sight to multiple enemy paths to maximize his area damage.
Synergies: Natsu works well with units that can group enemies together, allowing his attacks to hit more targets.
Winter Update Impact: Natsu received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in B-tier due to better alternatives.
Sanji (Diable Jambe)
Sanji (Diable Jambe) is a decent damage dealer with good attack speed. While he’s outclassed by many higher-tier options, he can still be effective in the right situations.
Key Strengths:
- Decent damage output
- Excellent attack speed
- Special ability that increases his damage for a limited time
- Cost-effective for his power level
Best Placement: Position Sanji where he can attack multiple enemies at once to maximize his quick attacks.
Synergies: Sanji works well with units that can enhance his damage or attack speed.
Winter Update Impact: Sanji received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in B-tier due to better alternatives.
Kakashi (Sharingan)
Kakashi (Sharingan) is a decent damage dealer with good range. While he’s outclassed by many higher-tier options, he can still be effective in the right situations.
Key Strengths:
- Decent damage output
- Good range
- Special ability that deals massive damage to a single target
- Cost-effective for his power level
Best Placement: Position Kakashi where he has a clear line of sight to enemy paths.
Synergies: Kakashi works well with units that can slow or stall enemies, giving him more time to deal damage.
Winter Update Impact: Kakashi received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in B-tier due to better alternatives.
Tanjiro (Water Breathing)
Tanjiro (Water Breathing) is a decent damage dealer with good area damage. While he’s outclassed by many higher-tier options, he can still be effective in the right situations.
Key Strengths:
- Decent area damage
- Good range
- Special ability that deals massive damage in a large area
- Cost-effective for his power level
Best Placement: Position Tanjiro where he has a clear line of sight to multiple enemy paths to maximize his area damage.
Synergies: Tanjiro works well with units that can group enemies together, allowing his attacks to hit more targets.
Winter Update Impact: Tanjiro received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in B-tier due to better alternatives.
Zenitsu (Thunder Breathing)
Zenitsu (Thunder Breathing) is a decent damage dealer with good attack speed. While he’s outclassed by many higher-tier options, he can still be effective in the right situations.
Key Strengths:
- Decent damage output
- Excellent attack speed
- Special ability that deals massive damage in a line
- Cost-effective for his power level
Best Placement: Position Zenitsu where he has a clear line of sight to enemy paths to maximize his line damage.
Synergies: Zenitsu works well with units that can enhance his damage or attack speed.
Winter Update Impact: Zenitsu received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in B-tier due to better alternatives.
Asta (Black Form)
Asta (Black Form) is a decent damage dealer with good attack speed. While he’s outclassed by many higher-tier options, he can still be effective in the right situations.
Key Strengths:
- Decent damage output
- Excellent attack speed
- Special ability that increases his damage for a limited time
- Cost-effective for his power level
Best Placement: Position Asta where he can attack multiple enemies at once to maximize his quick attacks.
Synergies: Asta works well with units that can enhance his damage or attack speed.
Winter Update Impact: Asta received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in B-tier due to better alternatives.
Deku (Full Cowling)
Deku (Full Cowling) is a decent damage dealer with good attack speed. While he’s outclassed by many higher-tier options, he can still be effective in the right situations.
Key Strengths:
- Decent damage output
- Excellent attack speed
- Special ability that increases his attack speed even further
- Cost-effective for his power level
Best Placement: Position Deku where he can attack multiple enemies at once to maximize his quick attacks.
Synergies: Deku works well with units that can enhance his damage or attack speed.
Winter Update Impact: Deku received a minor buff to his attack speed in the winter update, but he remains in B-tier due to better alternatives.
C-Tier Units: Average, Use in Specific Situations
These units have limited use cases and are generally outperformed by higher-tier options. They might have niche applications but are generally not worth investing in unless you have a specific strategy in mind.
Luffy (Base)
Luffy (Base) is a below-average damage dealer with limited utility. While he can be effective in very specific situations, he’s generally outclassed by most other units.
Key Strengths:
- Below-average damage output
- Limited utility
- Special ability that slightly increases his damage
- Low cost
Best Placement: Position Luffy where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Luffy works best with units that can significantly enhance his limited damage output.
Winter Update Impact: Luffy received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in C-tier due to significantly better alternatives.
Naruto (Sage Mode)
Naruto (Sage Mode) is a below-average damage dealer with limited utility. While he can be effective in very specific situations, he’s generally outclassed by most other units.
Key Strengths:
- Below-average damage output
- Limited utility
- Special ability that slightly increases his damage
- Low cost
Best Placement: Position Naruto where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Naruto works best with units that can significantly enhance his limited damage output.
Winter Update Impact: Naruto received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in C-tier due to significantly better alternatives.
Ichigo (Shikai)
Ichigo (Shikai) is a below-average damage dealer with limited utility. While he can be effective in very specific situations, he’s generally outclassed by most other units.
Key Strengths:
- Below-average damage output
- Limited utility
- Special ability that slightly increases his damage
- Low cost
Best Placement: Position Ichigo where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Ichigo works best with units that can significantly enhance his limited damage output.
Winter Update Impact: Ichigo received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in C-tier due to significantly better alternatives.
Gon (Adult Form)
Gon (Adult Form) is a below-average damage dealer with limited utility. While he can be effective in very specific situations, he’s generally outclassed by most other units.
Key Strengths:
- Below-average damage output
- Limited utility
- Special ability that slightly increases his damage
- Low cost
Best Placement: Position Gon where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Gon works best with units that can significantly enhance his limited damage output.
Winter Update Impact: Gon received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in C-tier due to significantly better alternatives.
Killua (Godspeed)
Killua (Godspeed) is a below-average damage dealer with limited utility. While he can be effective in very specific situations, he’s generally outclassed by most other units.
Key Strengths:
- Below-average damage output
- Limited utility
- Special ability that slightly increases his attack speed
- Low cost
Best Placement: Position Killua where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Killua works best with units that can significantly enhance his limited damage output.
Winter Update Impact: Killua received a minor buff to his attack speed in the winter update, but he remains in C-tier due to significantly better alternatives.
Levi (Ackerman)
Levi (Ackerman) is a below-average damage dealer with limited utility. While he can be effective in very specific situations, he’s generally outclassed by most other units.
Key Strengths:
- Below-average damage output
- Limited utility
- Special ability that slightly increases his damage
- Low cost
Best Placement: Position Levi where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Levi works best with units that can significantly enhance his limited damage output.
Winter Update Impact: Levi received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in C-tier due to significantly better alternatives.
Eren (Attack Titan)
Eren (Attack Titan) is a below-average damage dealer with limited utility. While he can be effective in very specific situations, he’s generally outclassed by most other units.
Key Strengths:
- Below-average damage output
- Limited utility
- Special ability that slightly increases his damage
- Low cost
Best Placement: Position Eren where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Eren works best with units that can significantly enhance his limited damage output.
Winter Update Impact: Eren received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in C-tier due to significantly better alternatives.
Mikasa (Ackerman)
Mikasa (Ackerman) is a below-average damage dealer with limited utility. While she can be effective in very specific situations, she’s generally outclassed by most other units.
Key Strengths:
- Below-average damage output
- Limited utility
- Special ability that slightly increases her damage
- Low cost
Best Placement: Position Mikasa where she can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Mikasa works best with units that can significantly enhance her limited damage output.
Winter Update Impact: Mikasa received a minor buff to her damage output in the winter update, but she remains in C-tier due to significantly better alternatives.
Shinra (Third Generation)
Shinra (Third Generation) is a below-average damage dealer with limited utility. While he can be effective in very specific situations, he’s generally outclassed by most other units.
Key Strengths:
- Below-average damage output
- Limited utility
- Special ability that slightly increases his damage
- Low cost
Best Placement: Position Shinra where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Shinra works best with units that can significantly enhance his limited damage output.
Winter Update Impact: Shinra received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in C-tier due to significantly better alternatives.
Arthur (Knight)
Arthur (Knight) is a below-average damage dealer with limited utility. While he can be effective in very specific situations, he’s generally outclassed by most other units.
Key Strengths:
- Below-average damage output
- Limited utility
- Special ability that slightly increases his damage
- Low cost
Best Placement: Position Arthur where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Arthur works best with units that can significantly enhance his limited damage output.
Winter Update Impact: Arthur received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in C-tier due to significantly better alternatives.
D-Tier Units: Below Average, Avoid if Possible
These units are generally not worth investing in due to poor performance or being outclassed by better alternatives. Only consider them if you have no other options.
Base Goku
Base Goku is a poor damage dealer with very limited utility. He’s significantly outclassed by virtually all other units and should be avoided if possible.
Key Strengths:
- Poor damage output
- Very limited utility
- Special ability that barely increases his damage
- Very low cost
Best Placement: Position Base Goku where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Base Goku needs significant enhancement from other units to be even remotely effective.
Winter Update Impact: Base Goku received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in D-tier due to vastly superior alternatives.
Base Vegeta
Base Vegeta is a poor damage dealer with very limited utility. He’s significantly outclassed by virtually all other units and should be avoided if possible.
Key Strengths:
- Poor damage output
- Very limited utility
- Special ability that barely increases his damage
- Very low cost
Best Placement: Position Base Vegeta where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Base Vegeta needs significant enhancement from other units to be even remotely effective.
Winter Update Impact: Base Vegeta received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in D-tier due to vastly superior alternatives.
Natsu (Base)
Natsu (Base) is a poor damage dealer with very limited utility. He’s significantly outclassed by virtually all other units and should be avoided if possible.
Key Strengths:
- Poor damage output
- Very limited utility
- Special ability that barely increases his damage
- Very low cost
Best Placement: Position Natsu where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Natsu needs significant enhancement from other units to be even remotely effective.
Winter Update Impact: Natsu received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in D-tier due to vastly superior alternatives.
Lucy (Celestial Spirit Mage)
Lucy (Celestial Spirit Mage) is a poor damage dealer with very limited utility. She’s significantly outclassed by virtually all other units and should be avoided if possible.
Key Strengths:
- Poor damage output
- Very limited utility
- Special ability that barely increases her damage
- Very low cost
Best Placement: Position Lucy where she can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Lucy needs significant enhancement from other units to be even remotely effective.
Winter Update Impact: Lucy received a minor buff to her damage output in the winter update, but she remains in D-tier due to vastly superior alternatives.
Happy (Exceed)
Happy (Exceed) is a poor damage dealer with very limited utility. He’s significantly outclassed by virtually all other units and should be avoided if possible.
Key Strengths:
- Poor damage output
- Very limited utility
- Special ability that barely increases his damage
- Very low cost
Best Placement: Position Happy where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Happy needs significant enhancement from other units to be even remotely effective.
Winter Update Impact: Happy received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in D-tier due to vastly superior alternatives.
Chopper (Heavy Point)
Chopper (Heavy Point) is a poor damage dealer with very limited utility. He’s significantly outclassed by virtually all other units and should be avoided if possible.
Key Strengths:
- Poor damage output
- Very limited utility
- Special ability that barely increases his damage
- Very low cost
Best Placement: Position Chopper where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Chopper needs significant enhancement from other units to be even remotely effective.
Winter Update Impact: Chopper received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in D-tier due to vastly superior alternatives.
Brook (Soul King)
Brook (Soul King) is a poor damage dealer with very limited utility. He’s significantly outclassed by virtually all other units and should be avoided if possible.
Key Strengths:
- Poor damage output
- Very limited utility
- Special ability that barely increases his damage
- Very low cost
Best Placement: Position Brook where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Brook needs significant enhancement from other units to be even remotely effective.
Winter Update Impact: Brook received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in D-tier due to vastly superior alternatives.
Franky (General)
Franky (General) is a poor damage dealer with very limited utility. He’s significantly outclassed by virtually all other units and should be avoided if possible.
Key Strengths:
- Poor damage output
- Very limited utility
- Special ability that barely increases his damage
- Very low cost
Best Placement: Position Franky where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Franky needs significant enhancement from other units to be even remotely effective.
Winter Update Impact: Franky received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in D-tier due to vastly superior alternatives.
Usopp (Sniper King)
Usopp (Sniper King) is a poor damage dealer with very limited utility. He’s significantly outclassed by virtually all other units and should be avoided if possible.
Key Strengths:
- Poor damage output
- Very limited utility
- Special ability that barely increases his damage
- Very low cost
Best Placement: Position Usopp where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Usopp needs significant enhancement from other units to be even remotely effective.
Winter Update Impact: Usopp received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in D-tier due to vastly superior alternatives.
Sanji (Base)
Sanji (Base) is a poor damage dealer with very limited utility. He’s significantly outclassed by virtually all other units and should be avoided if possible.
Key Strengths:
- Poor damage output
- Very limited utility
- Special ability that barely increases his damage
- Very low cost
Best Placement: Position Sanji where he can attack enemies without being threatened.
Synergies: Sanji needs significant enhancement from other units to be even remotely effective.
Winter Update Impact: Sanji received a minor buff to his damage output in the winter update, but he remains in D-tier due to vastly superior alternatives.
Winter Update Specific Changes
The March 2026 winter update brought several significant changes to the Universal Tower Defense meta. Here are the key updates that affect the tier list:
New Winter Units
- Ice Broly: A winter variant of Broly with ice-based attacks that can slow enemies. While powerful, he doesn’t quite match the original Broly (DBS) in raw damage, placing him in A-tier.
- Snow Vegeta: A winter variant of King Vegeta with enhanced abilities against ice-themed enemies. He’s a solid S-tier unit for winter-specific content but slightly less effective in general content.
- Frost Luffy: A winter variant of Luffy (Gear 4) with freezing abilities instead of knockback. He’s comparable to the original, placing him in A-tier.
- Winter Meliodas: A winter variant of Meliodas with freezing abilities instead of knockback. He’s comparable to the original, placing him in S-tier.
Balance Changes
- Ice-themed Enemy Buffs: Several ice-themed enemies received buffs to their health and damage, making units with ice-specific abilities more valuable.
- General Unit Adjustments: Many units received minor buffs and nerfs to balance the meta. Most notably, several S-tier units received slight nerfs to bring them more in line with other units.
- New Winter Maps: The update introduced new winter-themed maps with different layouts and enemy paths, changing the optimal placement strategies for many units.
Seasonal Strategies
With the winter update, several new strategies have emerged:
- Ice-Stacking: Building a team around units with ice-based abilities to continuously slow and freeze enemies.
- Winter Boss Counters: Focusing on units that excel against the new winter boss enemies, which have unique abilities and resistances.
- Map-Specific Compositions: Tailoring team compositions to the specific layouts of the new winter maps for maximum effectiveness.
Building the Ultimate Defense
Now that you understand the tier list and winter update changes, let’s discuss how to build the ultimate defense in Universal Tower Defense.
Team Composition Strategies
- Balanced Approach: Combine units from different tiers to create a well-rounded team. A good starting point might be 1-2 S-tier units, 2-3 A-tier units, and 1-2 B-tier units.
- Synergy Focus: Build around specific synergies between units. For example, pair units that group enemies with those that deal area damage.
- Meta Adaptation: Adjust your team composition based on the current meta and specific challenges you’re facing.
Placement Tips
- Maximize Coverage: Position units to cover as much of the path as possible, especially those with good range.
- Create Kill Zones: Place multiple units in areas where enemies are likely to group together for maximum effectiveness.
- Protect Key Units: Position your most valuable units where they’re less likely to be targeted by enemies with special abilities.
Resource Management
- Prioritize Upgrades: Focus on upgrading your most effective units first rather than spreading resources too thin.
- Save for Key Units: Save resources for essential S-tier units rather than spending on lower-tier options.
- Adapt to Economy: Adjust your spending based on the economy of the specific map or mode you’re playing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often is this tier list updated?
I update this tier list regularly to reflect the current meta, especially after major updates like the winter patch. For the most up-to-date information, I recommend bookmarking this page and checking back every few weeks or after any major game updates.
Should I only use S-tier units?
While S-tier units are generally the best options, a well-rounded team often requires units from different tiers. Sometimes A-tier or even B-tier units can fill specific roles that S-tier units can’t, making them valuable additions to your team.
How do I get more S-tier units?
S-tier units are typically obtained through the game’s gacha system or special events. Focus on saving your premium currency for banners featuring S-tier units, and participate in limited-time events that offer these units as rewards.
What’s the best team composition for beginners?
For beginners, I recommend focusing on A-tier units that are more accessible and still highly effective. A good starting team might include Super Saiyan 2 Gohan, Final Form Frieza, and Luffy (Gear 4), supplemented by whatever other good units you can obtain.
How do I counter specific enemy types?
Different units excel against different enemy types. For example, units with area damage are effective against groups of weaker enemies, while single-target specialists are better against high-health bosses. Pay attention to enemy abilities and adjust your team composition accordingly.
What’s the best strategy for the new winter maps?
The new winter maps require different strategies than older maps. Focus on units with ice-based abilities, which are particularly effective against the new winter enemies. Also, pay attention to the unique layouts of these maps and adjust your placement strategy accordingly.
How do I know when to sell a unit?
Sell units when they’re no longer effective for the current stage or when you need to make room for a better unit. Generally, it’s best to sell lower-tier units first, especially if you have higher-tier alternatives.
What’s the most important stat for damage dealers?
For most damage dealers, damage per second (DPS) is the most important stat. However, range and special abilities can also be crucial depending on the unit and situation. Consider the unit’s overall effectiveness rather than focusing on a single stat.
How do I maximize my resources?
Focus on completing daily quests and participating in events to earn more resources. Also, be strategic about your spending, prioritizing upgrades for your most effective units and saving for key S-tier units.
What’s the best way to progress in the game?
The best way to progress is to focus on building a balanced team of effective units, regularly upgrading them, and adapting your strategy based on the challenges you’re facing. Also, stay updated on the current meta and adjust your team composition accordingly.
Conclusion
With this comprehensive tier list and guide, you’re now equipped to dominate the Universal Tower Defense winter meta. Remember that while the tier list provides a solid foundation, the best players adapt their strategies based on specific situations and challenges.
Focus on building a balanced team with good synergies, prioritize upgrades for your most effective units, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different compositions. The winter meta brings new challenges and opportunities, and with the right strategy, you can conquer them all.
Be sure to bookmark this page and check back regularly for updates, as the meta is constantly evolving with new units and balance changes. Good luck, and may your defenses be impenetrable.