Do You Need a Phone Number to Play Overwatch 2? SMS Protection Explained

Activision Blizzard’s long-awaited sequel to its massively popular hero-shooter is right around the corner, as players prepare to welcome Overwatch 2 into their game libraries. Transitioning into a free-to-play game, Overwatch 2 has a proactive plan to help cut down on inevitable cheaters and disruptive players through its new Defense Matrix initiative. So, do you need a phone number to play Overwatch 2? We’ll explain SMS Protection, how it works, and how to set it up below.

Related: How to Preload Overwatch 2 – PC and Console Preload Times

Does Overwatch 2 Require A Phone Number To Play? — SMS Protection Explained

You’ve probably figured it out by now. Overwatch 2 requires an eligible cell phone number to play and, according to the Defense Matrix Overview, the same phone number can’t be used for multiple accounts simultaneously, nor can it be used to create multiple accounts.

Better be on your best behavior if you want to play Overwatch 2. Here’s what Blizzard has to say:

“As part of our free-to-play transition, all players must attach an eligible cell phone number to their Battle.net Account to play Overwatch 2. This is part of our Defense Matrix initiative, a multi-pronged system to combat disruptive in-game behavior.”

-Blizzard Entertainment

How To Activate SMS Protection in Overwatch 2

If you want to make sure you’re able to play Overwatch 2 as soon as it launches, you can complete the following steps ahead of time to activate SMS Protection on your Battle.net account:

• 1) – Visit https://account.battle.net/ and log in to your Battle.net account.
• 2) – In your Account Overview, navigate to Account Details.
• 3) – Scroll down to Phone Number and add yours in.
  • Note: Country code is restricted to the country listed on your Battle.net account, and certain types of phone numbers, like pre-paid and VOIP, cannot be used.
• 4) – Click Continue to receive an incoming SMS text message with a verification code.
• 5) – Enter the verification code into the field and click Continue.

Related: When Does Overwatch 1 Shut Down? – Answered

Complete these steps, and you’re all set to play Overwatch 2 on October 4. For more information on Overwatch 2, make sure to stick with Prima Games for the latest in news, guides, and tips.