Overwatch 2 uses SMS verification and voice chat analysis against disruptive players

Blizzard introduces a new security system in Overwatch 2 called Defense Matrix that uses audio transcription, among other things, to track down annoying players. In addition, the developer now requires SMS verification of an account.

Because Overwatch 2 is going to be a free-to-play game Blizzard in their own words take additional measures against gamers who harass other players. Named after the shield of character D.VA, the new Defense Matrix initiative extends the existing machine learning system to better automate the detection of cheaters and annoying players, according to Blizzard.

In addition to the analysis of the number of reports and other statistics, Blizzard will soon use a transcription of the voice chat, provided it is reported by other players during a game. Blizzard emphasizes that the speech fragments are only saved for a short time to be converted from audio to text. This text is then analyzed with a tool for disruptive behavior. The text file will also be deleted within thirty days.

Furthermore, Blizzard requires SMS verification of an account, regardless of which platform the player is playing on. Users can only link one phone number to an account and that number can only be used for one account. Certain types of numbers, including internet and prepaid numbers, cannot be used for authentication. According to Blizzard, linking a phone number is both intended to secure an account and to keep previously banned players from being able to just create a new account.

To discourage malicious players and help new players, Blizzard is also introducing the First Time User Experience. A new account will initially only have limited access to game modes, voice chat and certain heroes; restrictions that are lifted the more the player plays. An important feature of this limitation is the blocking of the Competitive game mode until a player has won at least fifty matches in Quick Play. “Ftue is an investment because it takes time to unlock gameplay features,” Blizzard wrote.

Finally, several other measures under the Defense Matrix program have been announced. Endorsements from Overwatch will be back in the future, but there is now only one category in which players can compliment each other. Someone with a high Endorsement level will get a reward for this, which is XP for the Battle Pass. Furthermore, the player level for a game of Competitive is no longer visible to prevent prejudice. The general chat in the menu has also been removed from the game and, thanks to the ping system, players can also play the game without having to communicate in voice chat.

Overwatch 2 will be released as a free-to-play game on October 4 for PC, Xbox, PlayStation and Nintendo Switch. Shortly before that, the plug is pulled from the original game.