A Parent’s Guide to Overwatch 2: What You Need to Know

If your child is into gaming, there’s a good chance they’ve heard of Overwatch 2. This team-based shooter by Blizzard Entertainment has been a massive hit since its launch, with a fast-paced, competitive style that keeps players coming back. But as a parent, you might be wondering: Is Overwatch 2 safe for kids? What are the risks? And should you be concerned about things like in-game chat, violence or spending real money on virtual items? This guide breaks it all down so you can make an informed decision.

{{subscribe-form}}

What is Overwatch 2 and how does it work?

At its core, Overwatch 2 is a multiplayer first-person shooter where two teams battle to complete objectives. Unlike many war-based shooters, Overwatch 2 has a colorful, cartoony art style and its characters (called "heroes") have unique abilities rather than just standard guns. Some heroes heal teammates, others deploy shields and some deal massive damage.

The game is objective-based, meaning players must work together to capture points, push payloads or defend specific areas. Quick thinking, teamwork and strategy are key—which is why many kids love it.

Overwatch 2 is available on multiple platforms, including:

• PC (via Battle.net)
• PlayStation 4 and 5
• Xbox One and Series X/S
• Nintendo Switch

Since Overwatch 1 has been shut down, Overwatch 2 is the only way to play the game now. It features updated gameplay, new heroes and a switch from 6 vs 6 to 5 vs 5 matches, which makes teamwork even more crucial.

Unlike the original, Overwatch 2 also introduced limited-time player vs environment story missions, giving players a way to experience narrative-driven content solo or cooperatively. However, these missions are not always available, and the core game remains multiplayer.

Unlike some games that have a full offline mode, Overwatch 2 is primarily an online multiplayer game. That means most of the time, your child will be playing with and against real people from around the world.

But if you’d rather they avoid online competition, there are some ways to play solo:

• Practice vs. AI – Kids can team up with AI-controlled bots instead of real players.
• Custom Games – They can set up private matches with friends or play alone against bots.
• Training Range – A solo mode where players can test out heroes and improve their skills.

These options let kids enjoy Overwatch 2 without having to interact with strangers, but the main game is still built around multiplayer battles.

One of the reasons Overwatch has remained popular is its connection to professional gaming. The Overwatch League (OWL) is a global esports competition featuring teams from around the world, and many kids who love the game also watch pro players on Twitch or YouTube Gaming. For some kids, Overwatch 2 is more than a game—it’s something they aspire to be great at, much like traditional sports.

‍

{{messenger-cta}}

‍

Is Overwatch 2 safe for kids?

Like any online game, Overwatch 2 has both positives and risks. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Violence:

Yes, Overwatch 2 is a first-person shooter, but it’s far from the gritty, realistic war games like Call of Duty. Instead, it has a stylized, cartoon-like look, and there’s no blood or gore. Defeated characters simply fall over and disappear. However, the game is still centered around combat, with weapons, explosions and constant fighting. It’s rated T for Teen (13+) by the ESRB.

In-Game Chat:

Like many online multiplayer games, Overwatch 2 has built-in voice and text chat. This can be a great way for players to communicate with their team, but it also opens the door to toxic behavior, inappropriate language and interactions with strangers.

The good news? Blizzard provides tools to manage chat:

• Voice chat can be muted or turned off.
• Text chat can be turned off.
• Players can be blocked or reported for bad behavior.

If your child is playing with friends, communication can be a great asset. But if they’re in random matches with strangers, it’s worth considering limiting chat features. A safer alternative is using the Jam feature in Kinzoo Messenger, which allows kids to chat securely with friends in a controlled environment.

In-Game Purchases:

Overwatch 2 has moved to a free-to-play model, but that doesn’t mean it’s free from in-game spending. Players can buy Coins, and use them in a few different ways. The game features a Battle Pass system, and Premium Battle Pass owners can unlock Tiers and access Legendary and Mythic content. There’s also an in-game store where players can buy skins, voice lines and other cosmetic items.

What parents need to know:

• No pay-to-win: Purchases are cosmetic only and don’t give a competitive advantage.
• No loot boxes: Unlike the first game, Overwatch 2 removed randomized loot boxes, reducing gambling concerns.
• Spending can add up: Kids may feel pressure to buy different things to customize their experience.
• Parental controls available: Spending can be restricted through Blizzard's settings or console parental controls.

What else should parents know about Overwatch 2?

Overwatch 2 is one of the most popular online shooters out there, and for good reason: it’s fun, strategic and constantly evolving. But as a parent, it’s worth taking a closer look at how your child is playing—who they’re talking to, what they’re spending and whether the competitive environment is a positive experience. It’s a good idea to heed the age rating, as this game is likely best suited to kids older than 12.

By setting up parental controls, disabling unnecessary chat features and having open conversations with your child, you can help them enjoy Overwatch 2 safely while avoiding the potential pitfalls.