‘Overwatch 2’ Updates: Defense Matrix, Player Interactions Among Tweaks Expected In Sequel

Blizzard is all set to introduce “Overwatch 2,” a sequel that is scheduled to hit gaming platforms that included the Nintendo Switch on Oct. 4.

There is building excitement about what the sequel will have to offer. Among those to expect to include the Defense Matrix system that is designed to improve player interaction and deter disruptive behavior.

The features were outlined in a blog post by Blizzard, detailing how each of these changes will directly benefit the player experience. This includes:

Define, develop, and nurture programs that will ensure a positive experience for all players.

Ensure competitive integrity at every level of play by rapidly identifying and eliminating cheaters and disruptive players.

Create a safer community both in and out of the game by embracing a firm stance against disruptive gameplay and enabling players who are both positive and constructive to be the leading voices in the community.

The post also explained how the new battle pass system will replace the game’s reliance previous reliance on loot boxes, something aimed at ensuring a fair battle experience.

Aside from these, there is the unlocking of original characters. In a post from the “Overwatch” site, this is something that players will have to work for.

To unlock the original roster of original “Overwatch 1” characters, gamers will have to play around 100 matches to get the chance to use them.

“New players begin with access to a limited set of game modes, heroes, and some other restrictions to onboard them more gradually,” the post read. “The first phase of our new [First Time User Experience] rapidly unlocks all the game modes and the ability to chat in-game, and the second phase unlocks all the original Overwatch heroes over the course of approximately 100 matches.”

The reason behind this is to avoid players getting overwhelmed with too many things to learn. Given that each hero has a unique set of abilities and counters, setting a goal on who to unlock would be another thing players can aim for.

However, it should be noted that this does not hold for groups. Players can still team up with friends to try out the heroes and game modes.

“Competitive is the exception to this rule because new players must complete a specific challenge to access this game mode,” the post added.