Despite facing so many issues with connectivity (which isn’t helped by the recent DDoS attacks), Blizzard Entertainment is making some changes to Overwatch 2. SMS Protect, which requires linking a phone number to one’s account to play, is being removed tomorrow. However, this change will only apply to the “majority” of existing players.
In a new launch status update, the developer stated, “Any Overwatch player with a connected Battle.net account, which includes all players who have played since June 9, 2021, will not have to provide a phone number to play.” The change is expected to go into effect tomorrow.
Of course, those that weren’t connected to Battle.net, along with brand new accounts, will still need to enable SMS Protect. The development team also reiterated that those who indulge in “disruptive behavior” will be banned regardless of the account’s age. It’s also listening to feedback and could make more adjustments to the phone number requirements, so stay tuned.
Overwatch 2 is available for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, PC, and Nintendo Switch. Stay tuned for more details and updates on current issues in the coming days.