In an official statement made by Blizzard last month, over one million accounts have now been banned for cheating since the launch of Overwatch 2 in 2023. They cracked down on players who would bypass restrictions and use unapproved third-party peripherals to gain an advantage over others. This also included players who used “aimbots, wallhacks and other cheats.” The Defence Matrix team have reiterated they want to ensure every match is “determined by skill and passion.”
Overwatch 2 is a free-to-play game which was developed by Blizzard Entertainment, who also made the Warcraft and Diablo series. As a sequel to the 2016 game, Overwatch 2 introduced new game modes and reduced the team size to 5 players. It’s an action game set in the future, where you can play cross-platform in the ultimate 5v5 battlefield.
Alongside Blizzard, the group ‘Defense Matrix’ works to ensure the Overwatch community is a fair, fun and safe inclusive social experience for players. The team combats dishonest players, disruptive behaviour and cheaters who seek to ruin the experience for others. In response to the Season 18 launch in August 2025, the team’s previously mentioned statement demonstrated their commitment to safeguarding. While tackling cheaters, they also aim to ensure the text chat in-game remains a friendly and safe space for players to interact – enforced through their Code of Conduct. These are certainly positive moves which the developers are taking to ensure the online safety of players is priority, but also player experience and enjoyment can be maintained.
Today, Blizzard Entertainment is owned by Activision Blizzard, following the companies’ merger in 2008. Microsoft acquired Activision Blizzard for $68.7 billion in 2023, which sparked a move toward more streamlined operations and cuts when Microsoft layoff over 9,000 staff in 2024. Controversies seem to follow Blizzard, as the company has faced numerous debacles, including poor-quality games, allegations of gender discrimination, and lawsuits related to sexual harassment. Despite Blizzard’s past, its performance remains strong as the company continues to focus on expanding development and platforms in the gaming industry.
Overwatch 2 is available to play on PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Nintendo Switch and Xbox Series X|S. For more information, visit the official Blizzard Entertainment Website.
Words by Charlotte Thomas
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