One week before the release of Overwatch 2, Blizzard wanted to present its anti-cheat and toxicity tool in order to guarantee the integrity of the gameplay: the defensive matrix. This system notably includes machine learning (an AI) capable of analyzing and understanding voice chat audio discussions in order to punish the most toxic players during OW2 games. In addition, a whole new progression mechanism has been implemented to welcome new players in the best conditions. So here are all the details of the defensive matrix.
The defensive matrix, a new bulwark against toxicity
The first function of the defensive matrix is to guarantee a positive attitude on Overwatch 2. Thus, software capable of reading and learning will be able to analyze the discussions of the voice and written chat, in order to punish the players guilty of toxicity. The latter will record the conversations for 30 days in order to analyze them and thus be able to decide on a sanction against the most negative players. Please note that the content of the conversations will be deleted after 30 days.
Also, player reports will still count and bring more weight to the software’s decision.
Protection against cheating and hacking
The protection matrix will also take advantage of this AI to better detect illegal actions and the use of cheat software. Additionally, all Overwatch 2 players will need to use SMS protection to ensure their account is secure.
This phone number will be needed to launch Battle.net, for PC and console players. However, this telephone number cannot be that of a prepaid mobile or VOIP.
First user experience
One of the issues with Overwatch is getting started which might be difficult for a new player. In order to facilitate the experience of the first hours of play, Blizzard has implemented the First user experience (FTUE in English, ” First Time User Experience “), a system to make OW2 less difficult to understand.
Thus, the grip will be progressive with a limited number of heroes and game modes at the beginning of your experience on Overwatch 2. These limits will be gradually removed according to your results and your playing time, allowing you to finally enjoy of the whole game.
For example, new players will not be able to progress to competitive play until they have won 50 matches in quick play.
The idea is therefore to offer a less impressive experience for new players but also to make the process of recreating an account a little longer. Indeed, by forcing new players to invest time on a new account, this should reduce inappropriate, toxic and/or illegal behavior on their main account but also on a second account.
While waiting for the official release of Overwatch 2, you can find more information about the game via our portal. As a reminder, the official release date of OW2 has been set for October 4, 2022. The game will be available on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch.