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Does Overwatch 2 Have Bots? A Comprehensive Guide

Yes, Overwatch 2 absolutely has bots. These aren’t the sinister, thrower bots infiltrating ranked matches that have been causing concern, but rather AI-controlled opponents designed for specific game modes and training purposes. While these bots are essential for learning the ropes and experimenting with new strategies, it’s crucial to distinguish them from the detrimental bots plaguing competitive play. This article will delve into the various ways bots are utilized in Overwatch 2 and address some common questions surrounding their presence.

AI-Controlled Opponents: Where You’ll Find Them

Overwatch 2 integrates bots primarily within two distinct areas:

1. Training Modes

Practice Range: The Practice Range allows players to experiment with each hero, and you can toggle between having a training bot or no enemies at all. While it’s not designed to be an active competitive match, it provides an invaluable space to familiarize yourself with hero abilities and mechanics.
Vs. AI Mode: This mode is specifically built for teams of players to battle against AI-controlled opponents. Available under the “Training” playlist, it allows you and up to four other teammates to fight against a full team of bots. This mode offers adjustable difficulty levels, from beginner to hard, making it perfect for players of all skill levels to practice teamwork and strategy without the pressure of competitive play. This is ideal for newer players getting acquainted with the game or for experienced players testing new hero combinations.

2. Custom Games

Custom Game Options: In custom games, players have extensive control over match settings. This includes the ability to add bots to either team or have them fill empty slots. This offers an array of experimental opportunities. You can try out different strategies with bot teammates, test yourself against a full team of hard AI bots, or simply have some casual fun without real competition. The customization also allows you to adjust AI difficulty, providing tailored challenges for all skill levels.

The Difference Between AI Bots and Problematic “Thrower” Bots

It’s essential to understand the difference between these beneficial AI bots and the problematic “thrower” bots that have caused concerns within the Overwatch 2 community.

AI Bots: These are integrated by Blizzard, designed for training and are predictable in behavior. They are intended to offer a fun and controlled environment for practice and experimentation. They do not interact with the ranked matchmaking systems, nor do they seek to disrupt normal gameplay.
Problematic “Thrower” Bots: These are malicious programs, often used by individuals selling smurf accounts. These bots are programmed to deliberately lose matches, and are a plague on the competitive scene, disrupting fair play and causing frustration for legitimate players. They are not affiliated with Blizzard and are considered an illegal use of third-party software.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Bots in Overwatch 2

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about bots in Overwatch 2 to clarify their role and differentiate them from malicious third-party programs:

1. Does Overwatch 2 have an AI mode?

Yes, Overwatch 2 features an AI mode located within the Training playlist. This mode allows players to team up and battle against computer-controlled characters.

2. Can you play Overwatch 2 vs bots?

Absolutely. You can play Overwatch 2 against bots in the “Vs. AI” mode found in the Training section. This mode is designed for both individual and cooperative play against AI-controlled opponents.

3. What kind of bots are available in Overwatch 2?

Overwatch 2 features bots with varying difficulty levels. From beginner to medium and hard, you can choose the challenge that suits your skill level for practicing different strategies and hero combinations in Training and Custom Games.

4. Are there bots in Overwatch 2 Quick Play?

While some players report seeing bot-like behavior in Quick Play, these are generally not AI-controlled bots. Instead, they are more likely player-controlled accounts demonstrating extremely poor skills, poor ping, or potentially malicious behavior using third-party software, including aim bots.

5. Can I play Overwatch 2 missions solo against AI?

No, officially Overwatch 2 PvE missions require a team. You can’t play these missions alone against AI opponents; you must be part of a team to complete them.

6. What are the “thrower” bots that players are complaining about?

These are third-party, malicious programs used to deliberately lose matches, often associated with the sale of smurf accounts. They disrupt competitive play and are not associated with the AI bots found in the training modes, nor are they implemented or supported by Blizzard.

7. Are these “thrower” bots part of the official game?

No, these “thrower” bots are not part of the official game and are not implemented or supported by Blizzard. They are considered an illicit use of third-party software and are against the terms of service.

8. How do I report suspicious players that might be thrower bots?

You can report suspicious players through the game’s in-game reporting system. You can access it through the Social menu and provide details that you believe will help Blizzard identify the potential wrongdoings.

9. Can I play with bots in Custom Games?

Yes, you can play with bots in Custom Games; you have complete control over the number and difficulty of bots on both teams. You can use this to experiment with different gameplay scenarios.

10. Is the AI in the Vs. AI mode the same as in Custom Games?

Yes, the AI behavior for bots is generally consistent across the “Vs. AI” mode and Custom Games. You can choose the difficulty level of the bots in both.

11. Do bots gain experience and rewards?

No, bots do not gain experience or rewards. They are strictly for practice and experimentation purposes and do not progress or contribute to the player’s account progression.

12. Can I use bots to practice specific hero match-ups?

Yes, bots are excellent for practicing specific hero match-ups in either the “Vs. AI” mode or within Custom Games. You can use these modes to experiment with different team compositions and strategies against predictable AI behaviors.

13. Is there any chance that I could get kicked for playing with AI?

Absolutely not. Playing with AI, whether in “Vs. AI” or Custom Games, will never get you kicked from the game nor penalized. The game will not penalize you for playing in a game with a pre-determined outcome and no real penalties.

14. Is the “Versus AI” mode good for new players?

Yes, the “Versus AI” mode is ideal for new players, offering a less stressful environment to learn the game’s mechanics, test different heroes, and understand team play.

15. Are bots going to evolve and become more difficult in the future?

Blizzard is continuously updating the game and may look into improving the AI bots in the future, however, as of now, there are no specific updates planned regarding bot AI.

Conclusion

Overwatch 2 utilizes bots as valuable tools for training, practice, and experimentation. These AI-controlled opponents offer an opportunity for both new and experienced players to improve their skills and strategies. While these bots are a positive aspect of the game, it’s critical to be aware of the negative impact of malicious, third-party bots that disrupt the player experience. Knowing the distinction between official AI and these harmful bots is essential for enjoying a fair and rewarding experience with Overwatch 2. By understanding the different ways that bots are utilized within the game, you will be better equipped to practice and enjoy Overwatch 2 to its fullest potential.

Does Overwatch 2 have bots?