Overwatch 2 will arrive as a free-to-play game on the Nintendo Switch and other platforms very soon — on October 4th. Replacing the original Overwatch servers in the process, the sequel is set to introduce a huge number of new players to the online game increasing the prospect of disruptive behaviour and gameplay amongst the community.
Blizzard has now laid out its plan to tackle these issues via the introduction of the Defence Matrix — a new system designed to improve player interaction and deter disruptive behaviour which will release simultaneously with Overwatch 2.
In a recent blog post, Blizzard outlined all of the features of this new system, including explanations as to how these inputs will directly benefit the player experience. We highly recommend reading through this post for a full rundown of the company’s policies on security and chat functionality. The short of it, however, is laid out in the following statement:
Defense Matrix encompasses our infrastructure of systems designed to help protect the integrity of gameplay and promote positive behavior in Overwatch 2. This initiative is spearheaded by a group made up of cross-functional teams throughout Blizzard, and they have defined a set of goals that’s guiding our mission to ensure a great experience for all Overwatch 2 players:
– Define, develop, and nurture programs that will ensure a positive experience for all players.
– Ensure competitive integrity at every level of play by rapidly identifying and eliminating cheaters and disruptive players.
– Create a safer community both in and out of the game by embracing a firm stance against disruptive gameplay and enabling players who are both positive and constructive to be the leading voices in the community.
The full statement details how these core goals will be put in place via methods such as monitoring the game’s live and typed chat, improving account security through SMS logins — as you will now require a phone number to be linked to your account in order to play — and a gradual introductory system for players who are new to the game.
The post also outlines how the new battle pass system will come to replace the previous game’s reliance on loot boxes to ensure a fairer battle experience.
With the final day to play Overwatch rapidly approaching, it is comforting to know that Blizzard is well underway with preparations to make the transition to Overwatch 2 as smooth as possible come October 4th.
What do you make of this new system? Choose your hero and leave a comment below!
