Overwatch 2 Producer Reveals Major Console Improvements Are in Development

Addressing Console Issues

Overwatch 2 Executive Producer Jared Neuss has shed light on the upcoming changes in the console versions of the game, aiming to tackle persistent issues such as cheaters and the overall user experience. This revelation comes after years of complaints from console players about the game's performance and competitive advantages on PC.

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One of the major concerns on console versions of Overwatch 2 is the use of XIM adapters, allowing players to connect a mouse and keyboard to their Xbox or PlayStation. This grants them higher precision and mobility, similar to PC controls, presenting an unfair advantage over traditional gamepads. Despite the developers considering this practice as cheating, Overwatch and Overwatch 2 lack XIM recognition, making it challenging to identify keyboard and mouse users.

In addition to the XIM adapter issue, many console players have voiced criticism about the subpar performance and user experience design of Overwatch 2. These factors have contributed to the perception that the game plays much better on PC, leading to a disparity in the gaming experience across different platforms.

Proposed Solutions and Commitment to Improvement

During a recent appearance on the Group Up! podcast, Neuss disclosed that Blizzard is actively working on addressing the console problems in Overwatch 2. He emphasized the imminent implementation of a system to detect XIM adapters, without delving into specific details to maintain secrecy from potential hackers and exploiters.

Neuss acknowledged the shortcomings in the overall 'usability' of Overwatch 2 on console and emphasized the company's efforts to enhance the gaming experience. He highlighted Blizzard's intentions, stating, 'We know where the problems are. I think there are two big categories. One is, are people using devices like XIM, and how do we prevent that, and how do we make the game a great experience on console?' This underscores the commitment to addressing the issues faced by console players and improving the overall gameplay on the platform.

Blizzard's recent endeavors to make Overwatch 2 more console-friendly align with the company's earlier steps to include console players in beta testing. By recognizing the impact of console players on the game's success, Blizzard aims to create a more inclusive and enjoyable gaming environment for the console community. Neuss' acknowledgement of the underserved demographic and the strategic significance of console players highlights the company's dedication to supporting this section of the player base.

Console Players' Impact and Future Prospects

The efforts to enhance Overwatch 2 for console players reflect the substantial influence of this player segment on the game's success. While Overwatch could have been limited to the PC market as a strategic hero shooter, the support and engagement of console players have contributed significantly to its status as one of Blizzard's most prominent IPs.

Console players have played a pivotal role in expanding the game's reach and influence, emphasizing the importance of catering to their gaming experience. The commitment to improving Overwatch 2 for console platforms not only addresses existing issues but also signifies a strategic move to further engage and support the console gaming community.