Why can’t i play Overwatch 2 with a prepaid phone number?

You can’t play Overwatch 2 with a prepaid phone number because Blizzard initially implemented a policy requiring postpaid phone numbers for SMS verification to reduce toxic behavior and cheating, but this policy has been amended to allow most prepaid service plans to be eligible. The main reason for this initial restriction was that prepaid numbers are often used by cheaters and trolls due to their ease of setup and low cost, but Blizzard has since revised its policy to accommodate prepaid users acting in good faith.

Introduction to Overwatch 2 and Phone Number Requirements

Overwatch 2 is a popular team-based first-person shooter game that requires players to create a Battle.net account to play. Initially, Blizzard required players to add a phone number to their account for SMS Protect, a system designed to combat disruptive behavior and cheating. However, this requirement prevented players with prepaid phone numbers from playing the game.

History of Phone Number Requirements in Overwatch 2

In the past, Blizzard did not allow prepaid phone numbers to be used for SMS verification due to concerns about cheating and toxic behavior. However, this policy has been changed, and most prepaid service plans are now eligible for use with Overwatch 2.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

General Questions

1. Why can’t I use a prepaid phone number for Overwatch 2?: Initially, Blizzard did not allow prepaid phone numbers due to concerns about cheating, but most prepaid service plans are now eligible.
2. Does Overwatch 2 accept prepaid phone numbers?: Yes, Overwatch 2 now accepts most prepaid phone numbers when creating accounts.
3. Can I play Overwatch 2 without a phone number?: If you previously played the first Overwatch after June 9, 2021, you can bypass the phone number requirement with your current Battle.net credentials.

Technical Questions

4. Why won’t my phone number work in Overwatch 2?: Possible reasons include the number being already added to another account, not being valid, or not meeting the requirements.
5. How do I activate my phone number in Overwatch 2?: Log in to the Battle.net accounts page, click on Account Details, scroll down to the Phone Number section, and click Add Phone Number.
6. What is a postpaid phone number?: A postpaid phone number is a mobile phone number for which service is provided by a prior arrangement with a mobile network operator, and the user is billed after the fact.

Account and Security Questions

7. Do I still need a phone number to play Overwatch 2 in 2023?: Existing players with a connected Battle.net account who played Overwatch after June 9, 2021, are no longer required to add a phone number.
8. Why does Overwatch 2 require a phone number?: The requirement was initially to combat disruptive behavior and cheating, but Blizzard has amended this policy.
9. Why doesn’t Blizzard accept prepaid numbers?: Some prepaid plans do not work with Blizzard’s system, but most prepaid service plans are now eligible.

Prepaid Phone Number Questions

10. Can I get a prepaid phone number?: Yes, you can buy prepaid cell phones to use for a longer period, and you get your own phone number with your prepaid SIM contract.
11. Can I play Overwatch 2 with MetroPCS?: While prepaid phones were initially not supported, most prepaid service plans, including those from major providers like MetroPCS, are now eligible.

Battle.net and Authenticator Questions

12. Why won’t Battle.net accept my phone number?: Ensure you enter the number correctly, and the country registered on your Battle.net account is correct and matches your phone number.
13. Do I need a phone number for the Battle.net Authenticator?: A mobile phone number is required to set up and use the Battle.net Authenticator.
14. Does Battle.net sell your phone number?: No, Blizzard does not sell your personal information, including your phone number.

Troubleshooting Questions

15. Why doesn’t Battle.net send me a verification code?: Ensure you have phone notifications activated in your Account Settings, and you don’t have any apps that can block texts or calls installed.