Players of Blizzard Entertainment’s online first person shooter, Overwatch 2, have been receiving bans over the use of inappropriate language.
Twitter/X user durpee92 had recently been banned from Overwatch 2 servers, and the only response they received from Blizzard support in this regard was that the ban had been issued “in accordance with our Terms of Use and our In-game Policies.” Upon seeking further clarification from the official Blizzard Customer Support Twitter/X account, they were told that the account was suspended for inappropriate language, including use of the “F” word and the “SH” word.
When asked why Overwatch 2 has a profanity filter if no one is allowed to use inappropriate language, the Blizzard Customer Support representative mentioned that the filter is for those who wish to use it, but profanity has never been allowed in its games. If reported, it is “absolutely actionable.” They were then asked to point out where in the company’s code of conduct it states that the use of such language is actionable. In response, the Customer Support representative linked to the first section under communication, which states, “When participating in communication of any kind (chat, voice communication, group finder), you are responsible for how you express yourself. You may not use language that could be offensive or vulgar to others.”
Furthermore, Blizzard Entertainment’s code of conduct states, “Hate speech and discriminatory language is inappropriate, as is any obscene or disruptive language. Threatening or harassing another player is always unacceptable, regardless of language used. Violating any of these expectations will result in account restrictions. More serious and repeated violations will result in greater restrictions.”
The Overwatch 2 community has not reacted favorably to such bans, and it will be interesting to see how it responds.
Overwatch 2 is available as a Free to Play title on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, GeForce Now, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X and Series S.
