Info about Overwatch® 2:

Official game description:


Release date: Aug 10, 2023

Categories: Hero Shooter, Tactical Shooter, Team-based Combat, Competitive Multiplayer, Class-based Combat, Objective-Driven Combat, Online Multiplayer

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 90; verdict: Predatory Monetization; summary: The analysis of user reviews for Overwatch reveals significant concerns regarding its monetization strategies and game design. The most frequent and impactful themes include the aggressive battle pass system, the perception of the game as a 'cash grab,' the return of lootboxes, and the presence of pay-to-win mechanics. Players are frustrated with the high cost of cosmetics, the need to grind or pay to unlock content, and the overall monetization model that seems designed to extract as much money as possible from players. Additionally, the game's design and balance issues are criticized, with some players feeling that the game is intentionally frustrating to encourage spending. The absence of promised features like the PvE mode further exacerbates player dissatisfaction.
- Wiki: score 10; verdict: Needs Improvement; summary: The analysis of user feedback reveals significant issues related to technical problems, particularly with alt-tabbing, which severely impacts the user experience. Additionally, the UI design has been criticized for being confusing and poorly designed, likened to a spreadsheet. Users also expressed frustration with the initial login process and the need for external guides, indicating a poor onboarding experience.
- Steam Deck: score 75; verdict: Needs Improvement; summary: The analysis of user feedback reveals significant issues with the Overwatch experience, particularly related to Battle.net. Key problems include difficulties with account creation and verification, frequent server and login issues, compatibility problems with the Steam Deck, technical difficulties, and a complicated user interface. These issues collectively contribute to a frustrating user experience, detracting from the enjoyment of the game.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $0.00 - $20.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence suggests that the community generally finds the game not worth its price due to various issues such as overpriced skins, lack of significant improvements, and balance issues. The mention of a $60 price tag on release and comparisons to other games indicate that the perceived value is low. Additionally, the repeated emphasis on the game not being worth it supports a lower price range.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 700.0h
  - Story completion: 30.0h
  - Session length: 2.0h
  - Endgame: 2000.0h
  - Reasoning: The evidence provided includes several quotes from users mentioning their total playtime hours, which helps in estimating the typical playtime metrics. For example, one user mentions having over 700 hours on the game, indicating a significant investment of time. Another user states they have over 3000 hours across console and PC, suggesting a very high level of engagement. Additionally, mentions of specific playtime milestones, such as 5000+ hours and 3k hours, provide a clear indication of the extensive time players spend on the game. These quotes collectively suggest that players invest a substantial amount of time to complete the game, finish the main story, and engage in endgame content.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game is generally fun and enjoyable, particularly when played with friends, but can be frustrating when played alone. The social aspect and seasonal events significantly enhance the experience.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: Playing with friends
  - Time to anchor: 1h 0m
  - Friction: Frustration when playing alone; Annoying and frustrating alone; Toxic teammates; Matchmaking issues
  - Unlock drivers: Playing with friends; Seasonal events; Battle passes
  - Conditions: Playing with friends; Participating in seasonal events; Engaging with battle passes
- Player Archetypes:
  - Community-Focused Socializer (sale)
    - Motivation: Social interaction and community engagement.
    - Playstyle: Enjoys playing with others, values community interactions, and is forgiving of game flaws.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: Chill player; Community supporter
    - Reference games: Paladins; Apex Legends
  - Strategy-Focused Veteran (buy)
    - Motivation: Strategic gameplay and complexity.
    - Playstyle: Enjoys the strategic and complex aspects of the game, appreciates unique gameplay mechanics.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: Hardcore gamer; Strategy enthusiast
    - Reference games: Quake; Doom (1993); Unreal Tournament
  - Lore-Seeking Newcomer (deep sale)
    - Motivation: Rich lore and narrative experience.
    - Playstyle: Seeks lore and story, desires more explanations and guidance.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: deep sale
    - Labels: Lore enthusiast; New player
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Entertained Enthusiast (sale)
    - Motivation: Entertainment and enjoyment.
    - Playstyle: Enjoys the game for its entertainment value, recommends it with a sense of humor.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: Entertained player; Game enthusiast
    - Reference games: N/A


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Fun and engaging gameplay (weight 0.25): Players consistently describe the gameplay as fun, engaging, and addictive. The core gameplay mechanics are well-received, and the variety of heroes and playstyles adds to the enjoyment.
- Regular updates and improvements (weight 0.21): The game has seen significant improvements through regular updates. Players appreciate the continuous support and new content, which keep the game fresh and engaging.
- Stadium mode is refreshing (weight 0.17): The new Stadium mode is highlighted as a fun and addictive addition to the game. Players find it refreshing and a worthy mode that adds replayability.
- Variety of heroes and playstyles (weight 0.16): The game offers a diverse roster of heroes, each with unique abilities and personalities. This variety allows for different playstyles and strategies, enhancing the overall experience.
- New characters and content (weight 0.16): The addition of new characters and content is appreciated by players. New characters are described as fun to play and visually appealing.
- Reward teamwork and cooperation (weight 0.08): The game encourages and rewards teamwork and cooperation. Players find the team-based mechanics and teamplay rewarding.
- Return of loot boxes (weight 0.08): The return of loot boxes as free rewards is well-received. Players appreciate the opportunity to grow their collections without spending money.
- Free-to-play model (weight 0.06): The free-to-play model is well-received, with players appreciating the accessibility and the lack of pay-to-win mechanics.
- Hero bans and map selection (weight 0.06): The addition of hero bans and map selection in competitive modes is appreciated. These features add depth to the competitive experience.
- Mini-perks system (weight 0.06): The mini-perks system and customizable perks are noted as positive additions to the game, providing more customization and strategic options.

Common complaints:
- Balancing issues in gameplay (weight 0.27): There are frequent complaints about poor balance in the game, including uneven hero balance and questionable balancing decisions.
- Cancelled PvE mode (weight 0.16): Players are disappointed with the cancellation of the promised PvE mode, which was a significant part of the game's initial pitch.
- Toxic community behavior (weight 0.14): A significant number of reviews highlight the toxic behavior within the game's community, including toxic players and overall negative interactions.
- Greedy monetization practices (weight 0.12): Players feel that the monetization strategies are too aggressive and greedy, detracting from the overall enjoyment of the game.
- Matchmaking system flaws (weight 0.12): The matchmaking system is criticized for being inconsistent, frustrating, and unbalanced, leading to a poor player experience.
- High prices for in-game skins (weight 0.11): Many players have expressed dissatisfaction with the high prices of skins and other in-game items, finding them overpriced and unaffordable.
- Server and connectivity issues (weight 0.1): Frequent server issues and connectivity problems disrupt the gaming experience, particularly noted in specific regions.
- Frustration in competitive mode (weight 0.08): Competitive mode is often described as frustrating and poorly designed, with issues of toxicity and inconsistency.
- Developers ignoring community feedback (weight 0.07): There is a perception that the developers do not care about the community or listen to their feedback, leading to dissatisfaction among players.
- Battle pass issues (weight 0.07): The battle pass is criticized for not being good value, having slow progression, and offering poor skins.
- Broken promises by developers (weight 0.06): Players feel let down by the developers' failure to deliver on promised features and content.
- Poor customer support (weight 0.05): The customer support and report system are described as poor and atrocious, leading to player frustration.
- Overwatch 2 legacy concerns (weight 0.05): Players feel that Overwatch 2 does not live up to its legacy and feels more like an update than a true sequel.
- Presence of cheaters (weight 0.05): The presence of cheaters and smurfs is a significant issue, affecting the fairness and enjoyment of the game.

Gameplay feedback:
- Diverse hero roster (weight 0.22): Players appreciate the wide variety of heroes, each with unique abilities and personalities, allowing for different playstyles and strategies.
- Shooter and tactical gameplay (weight 0.16): The game is praised for its shooter mechanics and tactical gameplay, emphasizing team-based hero shooter elements and PvP modes.
- Balance and optimization issues (weight 0.15): Many reviews highlight problems with game balance, including unbalanced characters and matchmaking issues, affecting overall gameplay experience.
- Competitive mode and integrity (weight 0.1): Players discuss the competitive mode, emphasizing the need for skill-based matchmaking and maintaining competitive integrity.
- Role queue system (weight 0.09): The 5v5 role queue system, including specific roles like Tank, is a significant aspect of the game, influencing team composition and strategy.
- Healer and tank dynamics (weight 0.07): The roles of healers and tanks are crucial, with discussions on their effectiveness and balance within the game.
- Cancellation of PvE content (weight 0.07): There is notable disappointment regarding the cancellation of PvE modes and content, which players were looking forward to.
- Objective-based and evolving gameplay (weight 0.06): Gameplay is centered around specific objectives and roles, with an evolution in mechanics that keeps the game engaging.
- Progression and reward system (weight 0.06): The progression system, including battle passes, is mentioned as a key feature, though some players seek reformulations.
- Introduction of Stadium mode (weight 0.04): Stadium mode, a recent addition featuring third-person gameplay, is noted as a new and interesting game mode.
- Transition from Overwatch 1 (weight 0.04): Players compare and discuss the changes and transition from Overwatch 1 to Overwatch 2, highlighting differences and improvements.
- Community toxicity and trolling (weight 0.04): Issues with community toxicity, including trolling and smurfing, are mentioned as detrimental to the gaming experience.

Performance notes:
- Server performance issues (weight 0.12): Players experience various server-related problems, including instability, connection issues, and poor performance.
- Optimization problems (weight 0.12): The game has optimization issues, leading to poor performance on various systems, including low-end PCs and specific hardware configurations.
- Bugs and technical issues (weight 0.1): Numerous bugs and technical issues are reported, including graphical bugs, sound issues, and general instability.
- Frequent game crashes (weight 0.06): Many players report that the game crashes often, affecting gameplay and user experience significantly.
- Positive performance feedback (weight 0.06): Some players report that the game runs smoothly and is well-optimized, with responsive controls and polished graphics.
- Good Linux support (weight 0.05): The game runs well on Linux systems, with positive feedback on its performance and compatibility through Proton.
- Low system requirements (weight 0.03): The game is noted for having low system requirements, making it accessible to players with lower-end hardware.
- Steam Deck instability (weight 0.02): The game is reported to be unstable on the Steam Deck OLED, affecting gameplay experience on this platform.
- Inconsistent netcode (weight 0.02): Players have noted that the netcode is inconsistent, leading to connectivity and performance issues during online play.

Recommendations:
- Game recommended despite issues (weight 0.13): Many players recommend trying the game or giving it another chance, especially returning players, due to recent improvements and its overall enjoyable nature despite some issues.
- Recommended for team-based FPS fans (weight 0.09): The game is highly recommended for those who enjoy team-based first-person shooter games, particularly those who appreciate variety and complexity in gameplay.
- Worth trying out (weight 0.08): Players suggest giving the game a chance, especially when playing with friends, as it can be a fun and enjoyable experience.
- Exciting and fun gameplay (weight 0.05): The game is praised for its exciting and fun gameplay, making it an enjoyable experience for many players.
- Great for casual players (weight 0.05): The game is considered great for casual players, offering an enjoyable and worth playing experience.
- Turn off chat to avoid toxicity (weight 0.05): Some players recommend turning off the chat to avoid toxicity and have a better gaming experience.
- Good for hero shooter fans (weight 0.03): The game is recommended for fans of hero shooters and those who enjoy teamwork in such games.
- Play as you like (weight 0.03): Players appreciate the flexibility to play the game solo or in a group, according to their preferences.
- Play in short bursts (weight 0.03): Players suggest that the game is suitable for playing in short bursts, making it a good time to play.
- Alternative to Team Fortress 2 (weight 0.03): Some players suggest playing Team Fortress 2 as a better alternative to this game.
- Free to play (weight 0.02): The game is free to play, which is a significant advantage for many players.
- Features being added (weight 0.02): Players note that new features are being added to the game, indicating ongoing development and improvements.
- Build memories with loved ones (weight 0.02): The game is recommended for building memories with loved ones, suggesting a social and enjoyable experience.
- Returning or starting Overwatch 2 (weight 0.02): Players recommend returning to or starting Overwatch 2, indicating a positive outlook on the game.
- Recommended for competitive players (weight 0.02): The game is recommended for competitive players, indicating a challenging and engaging experience.
- Positive outlook on updates (weight 0.02): Players have a positive outlook on future updates, indicating optimism for the game's development.
- Worth giving another shot (weight 0.02): The game is considered worth giving another shot, suggesting it has improved or is worth revisiting.
- Game is improving (weight 0.02): The game is seen as worth playing and improving, indicating ongoing development and positive changes.
- Fun for long or short sessions (weight 0.02): The game is fun to play for both long and short sessions, making it versatile for different gaming preferences.
- Bright future for Overwatch (weight 0.02): Players believe in a bright future for Overwatch, indicating optimism and confidence in the game's development.
- Recommended for Overwatch fans (weight 0.02): The game is recommended for those who enjoy Overwatch, suggesting a similar gameplay experience.
- Quick battles for lighter experience (weight 0.02): Players recommend quick battles for a lighter and more casual gaming experience.
- Fast matches (weight 0.02): The game features fast matches, making it suitable for quick gaming sessions.
- Mix of chaos and strategy (weight 0.02): The game offers a mix of chaos and strategy, providing a unique gameplay experience.
- Good monetization system (weight 0.02): The game has a good monetization system, which is appreciated by players.
- Recommended for specific players (weight 0.02): The game is recommended for specific types of players, suggesting it may not appeal to everyone.
- Fun but stressful (weight 0.02): The game is described as fun but stressful, suggesting a mix of enjoyment and challenge.
- Play Quick Play or Stadium (weight 0.02): Players recommend playing Quick Play or Stadium modes for a better gaming experience.
- Play with a good attitude (weight 0.02): Players advise playing the game with a good attitude, possibly to enhance enjoyment and reduce stress.
- Avoid disclosing gender (weight 0.02): Players advise not to disclose gender, possibly to avoid unwanted attention or harassment.
- Avoid the community (weight 0.02): Some players suggest avoiding the game's community, possibly due to toxicity or negative interactions.
- Only if emotionally stable (weight 0.02): The game is only recommended for those who are emotionally stable, suggesting it can be stressful or challenging.
- Avoid if prefer Steam ecosystem (weight 0.02): Players advise avoiding the game if you prefer the Steam ecosystem or dislike constant cosmetic promotions.
- Ignore Competitive mode (weight 0.02): Some players suggest ignoring Competitive mode, possibly due to stress or dissatisfaction with it.
- Pray for 6v6 mode return (weight 0.02): Some players express a desire for the return of the 6v6 mode, indicating nostalgia or preference for that gameplay style.
- Check out Stadium mode (weight 0.02): Players recommend checking out Overwatch for its Stadium mode, suggesting it offers a unique and enjoyable experience.
- Little impact on daily life (weight 0.02): Players remind others that the game has little impact on day-to-day life, suggesting it should be taken lightly and not too seriously.
- Include previous cinematics (weight 0.02): Players suggest including previous cinematics in the story tab of the menu for a better narrative experience.
- Play Marvel Rivals (weight 0.02): Some players mention playing Marvel Rivals, possibly as an alternative or additional game.
- Ignore most skins (weight 0.02): Players recommend ignoring most skins on certain characters, possibly due to their lack of appeal or value.

Other player notes:
- Early access beta concerns (weight 0.02): Players have expressed concerns about the game being in early access beta, suggesting it might have been a mistake to release it in this state.
- Personal player experiences (weight 0.02): Some reviews include personal stories and experiences related to the game, providing anecdotal insights.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.6): Players are frustrated primarily due to technical issues such as constant crashing, server problems, and poor performance. Additionally, matchmaking issues, toxic player behavior, and unfair banning contribute significantly to this frustration. Monetization practices, including expensive skins and battle pass issues, also play a major role.
- Disappointment (weight 0.27): Disappointment stems from the decline in game quality and unfulfilled promises made by the developers. Players are also disappointed with the shift in monetization strategies, such as expensive cosmetics and the removal of loot boxes. The cancellation of promised PvE content and the overall direction of the game's development have further contributed to this sentiment.
- Anger (weight 0.18): Anger is primarily caused by unfair penalties, poor gameplay experiences, and predatory monetization practices. Players are also angry about the SMS verification requirement, account suspension issues, and the perceived greed of the developers. Toxic player behavior and ineffective support roles add to the frustration.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.1): Players enjoy the variety in playstyles, weapons, and characters. The fun and addictive gameplay, along with the competitive mode, contribute to a positive experience. Playing with friends and the overall good optimization of the game also enhance enjoyment.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.1): Nostalgia is driven by comparisons to the original Overwatch and memories of playing the game since its early days. Players reminisce about the game's better state at launch and the positive experiences they had. The emotional connection to the game's universe and characters also evokes nostalgic feelings.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.09): Satisfaction comes from the game improvements and positive changes made by the developers. Players appreciate the variety of modes, better character abilities, and the overall high polish of the game. The improved matchmaking and game balance also contribute to a satisfying experience.
- Hopeful (weight 0.06): Players are hopeful due to the potential improvements and promises made by the developers. The belief in the game's improvement and the positive outlook on its future contribute to this hope. The recent updates and new content also give players a reason to be optimistic.
- Hope (weight 0.06): Hope is driven by the belief in the game's potential to improve and flourish. Players are excited about future updates and reworks, and they appreciate the efforts made by Blizzard to enhance the game. The possibility of better future decisions and improvements keeps players hopeful.
- Joy (weight 0.04): Joy comes from the fun gameplay and character interactions. Playing with friends and enjoying the game's universe contribute to a joyful experience. The positive memories and engaging gameplay make players happy.
- Excitement (weight 0.03): Excitement is generated by the fast-paced action and immersive gameplay. The introduction of new game modes, characters, and abilities keeps players excited. The potential for future updates and improvements also adds to the excitement.
- Frustrated (weight 0.03): Players are frustrated due to issues with phone verification, account bans, and server connectivity. The lack of refunds and strict communication policies also contribute to this frustration. Experiences with bugs and poor customer support further exacerbate the situation.
- Nostalgic (weight 0.02): Nostalgia is evoked by reflecting on past experiences with the game. Players miss the world and characters of the game and reminisce about its history and past successes. The emotional connection to the game's legacy and past experiences brings about nostalgic feelings.
- Disappointed (weight 0.02): Disappointment arises from the canceled PvE mode and balance issues. Players feel let down by the ineffective reporting system and the game's stress. The lack of support for older characters and the disrespectful attitude of some players also contribute to this sentiment.
- Love (weight 0.02): Love for the game is driven by a long-term attachment to Overwatch. Players appreciate the deep lore and engaging cinematics. Despite personal skill levels, the enjoyment of the game and its characters fosters a sense of love.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.02): Enthusiasm comes from the positive evaluation of the game's features. Players enjoy the various modes and team mechanics. The exciting collaborations and new features keep players enthusiastic about the game.
- Addiction (weight 0.01): Addiction is driven by the game's addictive nature. Despite issues, players still enjoy the game and find it hard to stop playing. The engaging gameplay and fun heroes contribute to this addictive experience.
- Stress (weight 0.01): Stress is caused by unfair matchmaking and in-game tactics. Team play and overwhelming scenarios in the game also contribute to this stress. The competitive nature and high stakes of matches can be stressful for players.
- Betrayal (weight 0.01): Betrayal is felt due to broken promises and greedy monetization practices. Players feel betrayed by the removal of fun elements and promised features. The changes in the game that go against what was initially promised contribute to this sense of betrayal.
- Optimistic (weight 0.01): Optimism is driven by recent changes and improvements in the game. Players believe the game can be rewarding and fun if played correctly. The positive outlook on the game's future and potential improvements keeps players optimistic.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Confusion arises from unexpected character appearances and difficulties understanding the game mechanics. Players may feel confused due to the complexity of the game and the lack of clear instructions. The overwhelming amount of information and features can also contribute to this confusion.}