Overwatch 2: Blizzard's shooter struggles with problems at the start

Three years after it was first announced at BlizzCon 2019, Blizzard's multiplayer shooter Overwatch 2 is now available, and it's even free. However, the start yesterday evening was overshadowed by massive server problems.

Overwatch 2 continues the game mechanics of the first part (test), so that 5-on-5 battles are fought online will. The focal point are once again the unique heroes, who can decisively influence the fight with their special abilities such as a protective energy shield. In addition to new heroes and new cards, the second part also brings a new look. Overwatch 2 offers crossplay and crosssaves or crossprogression on PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One, Series S and X, Nintendo Switch and PC.

In terms of the business model, Overwatch 2 no longer relies on loot boxes but on a paid Battle Pass. A “grind protection wall” is to be used against cheaters. However, the previously advertised PvE mode (story mode) is not yet available at launch. Players are put off here until next year.

Start with massive server problems

However, the start of the new multiplayer shooter was overshadowed by massive server problems yesterday evening, which made playing the new Overwatch 2 almost impossible. According to Activision Blizzard, the servers have been victims of DDoS attacks several times, which have continued to this day.

Unfortunately we are experiencing a mass DDoS attack on our servers. Teams are working hard to mitigate/manage. This is causing a lot of drop/connection issues. https://t.co/4GwrfHEiBE

— Mike Ybarra (@Qwik) October 4, 2022

Overwatch 1 is transitioning

With the start of Overwatch 2, the predecessor Overwatch, which was sold at full price at the time, will be completely retired. The first part is no longer playable since today. However, the content will be transferred to the second part.

Low system requirements for everyone

As with the first part, the system requirements are again low. Even a very outdated AMD Phenom X3 8650 from 2008 is sufficient in the minimum configuration. On the other hand, a moderate hardware combination of AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i7 paired with graphics cards from recent years is recommended.