Why does Overwatch 2 say account requires phone number?
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Overwatch 2 requires a phone number to be linked to a Battle.net account as part of its SMS Protect system, which aims to verify legitimate players and prevent cheating and smurfing by ensuring each account is associated with a unique phone number. This measure is intended to enhance account security and maintain a fair gaming environment, although it has been met with controversy and adjustments have been made to exempt certain players, such as those who have played Overwatch since June 9, 2021.
Understanding the Requirement
To delve deeper into the specifics of why Overwatch 2 mandates a phone number and how this requirement impacts players, it’s essential to explore the reasoning behind Blizzard’s decision and the implications for the gaming community.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do you need a phone number to play Overwatch 2?
A phone number is required for new players to play Overwatch 2, but existing players who have played Overwatch since June 9, 2021, are exempt from this requirement.
2. How do I bypass the Overwatch 2 phone number requirement?
The only recognized method to bypass the phone number requirement is by being an existing Overwatch player who has played since June 9, 2021, or by utilizing a burner phone service for new accounts.
3. Why does Overwatch require my phone number?
Blizzard requires a phone number to prevent cheating and smurfing by ensuring each account is linked to a unique phone number, thereby enhancing account security.
4. Can you use a fake phone number for Overwatch?
Using a fake phone number or someone else’s phone number is not recommended as it can compromise account security and is against Blizzard’s terms of service.
5. Do you still need a phone number to play Overwatch 2 in 2023?
As of the latest updates, existing Overwatch players who have played since June 9, 2021, do not need to add a phone number to play Overwatch 2.
6. Why won’t Overwatch 2 let me use my phone number?
If Overwatch 2 won’t let you use your phone number, ensure it’s not already linked to another account, and check that your country and phone number match and are correctly registered on your Battle.net account.
7. How do I activate my phone number in Overwatch 2?
To activate your phone number in Overwatch 2, log in to your Battle.net account, go to the Account Details tab, scroll down to the Phone Number section, click Add Phone Number, and follow the prompts to receive and enter a security code.
8. Can you use a prepaid phone number for Overwatch 2?
Overwatch 2 has updated its policy to allow individuals with eligible prepaid phones to register their phone number and play the game.
9. What is a postpaid phone number, and why does Overwatch 2 require it?
A postpaid phone number is associated with a cellular plan where services are used and then paid for at the end of a billing cycle. Initially, Overwatch 2 required postpaid numbers to curb cheating, but this requirement has been relaxed for certain players.
10. Why is Blizzard not accepting my phone number?
Ensure your phone number is correctly entered, matches your country registered on Battle.net, and hasn’t been used on a VOIP plan. Also, check if your country and phone number are correctly registered.
11. Do you need a Battle.net account to play Overwatch 2?
Yes, a Battle.net account is required to play Overwatch 2, and for players using Steam, they must connect their Battle.net account to play.
12. Can I use Talkatone for Overwatch 2?
Talkatone and similar services can provide virtual phone numbers that might be useful for accessing Overwatch 2, especially for those without access to multiple postpaid numbers.
13. How can I get a free virtual phone number?
Services like Google Voice, Tossable Digits, CallHippo, eVoice, and Vumber offer free virtual phone numbers that can be used for various purposes, including potentially accessing Overwatch 2.
14. What is a burner phone number, and can it be used for Overwatch 2?
A burner number is a temporary phone number that can be used and then discarded. It can be an option for players needing a phone number for Overwatch 2, especially new players or those without a postpaid number.
15. Is Blizzard removing the phone number requirement?
Blizzard has made adjustments to its phone number requirement, exempting a majority of existing Overwatch players from needing to add a phone number to play Overwatch 2, in response to player feedback and the evolving needs of the gaming community.