Forum

Find answers, ask questions, and connect with our
community around the world.

  • Overwatch 2 Phone Number Requirements

    Posted by Unknown Member on September 19, 2023 at 12:50 pm

    Overwatch 2 just released with a less than stellar launch due to a massive influx of players itching to try it out as well as a DDoS attack, as reported by members of the Blizzard development team. Unfortunately, that’s not the only reason players are lamenting the side-step sequel.

    Back in June, Blizzard revealed that Overwatch 2 would battle smurf accounts, cheaters, and bots by requiring a valid phone number capable of receiving SMS text messages. This is fairly standard fare for most modern Free-To-Play titles, including other games from Activision-Blizzard like Call of Duty: Warzone. Arguably, it is the best way to combat cheaters and other problematic players, but that simplicity comes at a cost.

    According to the Battle.Net Phone Notification Support page, players are not able to use certain prepaid phone plans, as well as VOIP services. While Blizzard does offer the information that not all prepaid phone numbers may be accepted, they do not provide any list of compatible services to players, only vaguely alluding to what may or may not work.

    Unknown Member replied 8 months, 1 week ago 2 Members · 4 Replies
  • 4 Replies
  • Unknown Member

    Member
    September 19, 2023 at 1:05 pm

    I would disagree with the premise here being that if the result of some decision leads to segmentation of users based on phone number access it is ‘classist’.

  • Bertran Hammad

    Member
    September 19, 2023 at 1:07 pm

    I completely understand the frustration here. It’s disheartening when a seemingly simple requirement like a phone number becomes a barrier for players, especially when it affects those on prepaid plans. But you can try using a uk temporary phone number .
    I remember my own days when I had to choose the most affordable mobile plan just to stay connected, and I can relate to the financial constraints many people face. Gaming should be about having fun and connecting with friends, not about class distinctions or expensive phone plans.

    I completely understand the frustration here. It’s disheartening when a seemingly simple requirement like a phone number becomes a barrier for players, especially when it affects those on prepaid plans.

  • Bertran Hammad

    Member
    April 2, 2024 at 4:55 pm

    Bummer about the Overwatch 2 launch hiccups.

  • Unknown Member

    Member
    April 10, 2024 at 8:21 pm

    Dealing with both a massive player influx and a DDoS attack sounds like a real headache for the Blizzard team. Plus, the whole deal with battling smurf accounts and cheaters by requiring phone numbers seems like a good move, but it’s a bummer that it’s causing issues for some players. I can relate to the frustration of dealing with cheaters in online games.Also, speaking of phone numbers, I’m currently in the market for a VoIP system for work. A friend mentioned https://www.mightycall.com/blog/what-is-voip/ as a solid option for Canadian users. Have you had any experience with them or other VoIP providers?

Log in to reply.