Overwatch 2 introduced a long list of additions with its launch earlier last month. Beside the new heroes, maps, and modes, the game also implemented a variety of features intended to reduce toxicity and cheating in the game space. Overwatch 2’s “Defense Matrix” introduced features such as SMS protect, a first-time user experience, changes to how levels are presented, and more. Though many in the community have taken issue with some of these changes, they’ve certainly helped to reduce disruptive behavior seen in matches.
RELATED: Overwatch 2 Widowmaker Startled by Ashe Dynamite Jumpscare
The user VGA_RA on Reddit made a post thanking a supportive Genji player that joined them in a recent game. The friendly player used the in-game chat to ask everyone on the team how they were doing, which gave VGA_RA the opportunity to vent their frustrations after a stressful day. The Genji cheered the team on and, after helping them win the match, said that they hope everyone was having a better day now. The author of the post was touched by this interaction, and went on to remind the Overwatch 2 community how impactful it can be to simply be kind and supportive to fellow players.
While the Defense Matrix initiative has done much to improve positivity, it’s safe to say that it hasn’t eliminated toxicity entirely, and Overwatch 2’s identity as a free-to-play game has brought in heaps of new players that are often treated poorly by experienced fans. Due to the competitive nature of the culture surrounding Overwatch 2, many players focus largely on the skill level of their teammates, and it’s not uncommon for some in the community to blame and criticize their allies following a defeat.
While Overwatch 2’s Defense Matrix initiative was designed with good intentions, many in the community were upset with some of the features it introduced around the time of the game’s release. Some were uncomfortable with the fact that conversations from the game’s voice chat could be recorded and transcribed, and a large portion of players even faced login issues due to problems with the SMS protect feature.
While competitive players understandably focus on victory above other things, posts like these should remind all players that Overwatch 2 is still just a game. It has served as a platform over the years for communities to grow and friendships to be made, and every player should do their part to eliminate hate and spread kindness instead.
Overwatch 2 is available on PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
MORE: Overwatch 2: How To Get League Rewards
