Blizzard has revealed that Overwatch 2 will use a new security system, SMS Protect, which requires you to enter a phone number in your account. Without it, it will not be possible to play free-to-play.
Via the official website, Blizzard declares the following: SMS Protect brings a significant change to the game. This extra layer of security is an industry-proven solution to combat both cheating and misbehavior, further protecting your Overwatch 2 experience from the bad guys. ”
“The security of your account is important and SMS Protect helps verify ownership of your account in the unforeseen event of its being compromised. Likewise, if a disturbing player has been suspended or banned, SMS Protect makes it more difficult for them to be compromised. I’m back in the game. ”
“Starting October 4, 2022, all players on all platforms, including consoles, will need to have a phone number linked to their battle.net account in order to play Overwatch 2. The same phone number cannot be used on multiple accounts at the same time and players cannot use the same phone number to create new accounts. A phone number can only be used once when creating a new account and some types of numbers, including prepaid and VOIP numbers, cannot be used for SMS Protect. ”
“Even if you have an older version of Overwatch, SMS Protect must be activated to play Overwatch 2.” Finally, we point out that the Overwatch 2 VP is interested in cross-over collaborations with various brands in the style of Fortnite.