'Overwatch 2' moderation tools include voice chat transcripts and SMS verification
Overwatch 2 is set to go live and free on October 4, and in preparation for the big day, Blizzard has introduced a suite of moderation tools aimed at curbing abusive and disruptive player behavior. The new system will require a phone number to be linked to each account and introduce audio transcripts of reported voice chat interactions, among other changes. Blizzard calls the initiative Defense Matrix, after D.Va's hologram shield ability.
The phone-linking system, SMS Protect, means that each Overwatch 2 player will need to connect a phone number to their Battle.net account, and that number cannot be used to exploit or create another account. This makes it easier to enforce suspensions and bans, and makes it harder for players to cheat the matchmaking system. SMS Protect isn't a new idea in the world of competitive online gaming, and it's a proven way to reduce smurfing - a practice where skilled players create new accounts and slip into lower level matches, whether to boost their friends, avoid a ban or simply troll.
Another notable feature of Defense Matrix is the addition of audio transcriptions for problematic voice chat recordings and automated review tools for the resulting text. The transcription process relies on players reporting abusive language as it occurs, but once someone is reported, this system collects a temporary recording of the match's voice chat and transcribes it. in text. This text is then analyzed by Blizzard's existing AI-based abuse detection tools.
Regarding the longevity of recordings and text files, Blizzard said, "Once the audio recording has been transcribed into text, it is promptly deleted as the sole purpose of the file is to identify behavior potentially disruptive. The text file is then deleted no later than 30 days after the audio transcription."
The studio said audio transcripts will be rolling out within weeks of launch. Additionally, general chat functionality will not exist in Overwatch 2, leaving Twitch streamers with one less outlet for their watch-me spam. Blizzard has outlined the full Defense Matrix strategy on the Overwatch Blog, along with checklists for existing and new players. October 2 is the last full day to play the original Overwatch, and Overwatch 2 is scheduled to go live worldwide at 3 p.m. ET on October 4.
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Overwatch 2 is set to go live and free on October 4, and in preparation for the big day, Blizzard has introduced a suite of moderation tools aimed at curbing abusive and disruptive player behavior. The new system will require a phone number to be linked to each account and introduce audio transcripts of reported voice chat interactions, among other changes. Blizzard calls the initiative Defense Matrix, after D.Va's hologram shield ability.
The phone-linking system, SMS Protect, means that each Overwatch 2 player will need to connect a phone number to their Battle.net account, and that number cannot be used to exploit or create another account. This makes it easier to enforce suspensions and bans, and makes it harder for players to cheat the matchmaking system. SMS Protect isn't a new idea in the world of competitive online gaming, and it's a proven way to reduce smurfing - a practice where skilled players create new accounts and slip into lower level matches, whether to boost their friends, avoid a ban or simply troll.
Another notable feature of Defense Matrix is the addition of audio transcriptions for problematic voice chat recordings and automated review tools for the resulting text. The transcription process relies on players reporting abusive language as it occurs, but once someone is reported, this system collects a temporary recording of the match's voice chat and transcribes it. in text. This text is then analyzed by Blizzard's existing AI-based abuse detection tools.
Regarding the longevity of recordings and text files, Blizzard said, "Once the audio recording has been transcribed into text, it is promptly deleted as the sole purpose of the file is to identify behavior potentially disruptive. The text file is then deleted no later than 30 days after the audio transcription."
The studio said audio transcripts will be rolling out within weeks of launch. Additionally, general chat functionality will not exist in Overwatch 2, leaving Twitch streamers with one less outlet for their watch-me spam. Blizzard has outlined the full Defense Matrix strategy on the Overwatch Blog, along with checklists for existing and new players. October 2 is the last full day to play the original Overwatch, and Overwatch 2 is scheduled to go live worldwide at 3 p.m. ET on October 4.
All products recommended by Engadget are selected by our editorial team, independent of our parent company. Some of our stories include affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. All prices correct at time of publication.
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