Overwatch 2 permanently banning console users for using unapproved peripherals

In a move sure to shock many gamers, Overwatch 2 will be permanently banning console users for using unapproved peripherals, in an attempt to target high-ranked players who have been reported for "ximming." Using this method, console players could gain a significant edge over other players using standard controllers, raising concerns about fair play in the competitive scene.

The gaming behemoth released its Director's Take, where several issues related to ximming and consoles were tackled. Let's look at all that was talked about, and what this means for the future of console players.

In the recently released Director's Take, Senior game producer Adam Massey and lead gameplay engineer Daniel Razza said:

Delving into how such suspensions can be avoided, they stated:

In Overwatch 2, unapproved peripherals are devices that allow console players to covertly use a mouse and keyboard while hiding this fact from the game. This provides an unfair advantage because console versions of the game have aim-assist features designed to balance gameplay against PC players using a mouse and keyboard. Massey and Razza went on to state:

Blizzard doesn't reveal exactly how it detects these devices, but it did emphasize the gravity of this challenge due to the devices being designed to be undetectable. The company has been passively gathering data for several seasons to refine its detection methods.

Starting Season 11, Overwatch 2 is implementing a two-phase penalty system to discourage the use of unapproved peripherals which grant console players mouse and keyboard functionality. First-time offenders will face a one-week suspension from competitive console play but still have access to Quick Play.

However, repeat offenders will be forced to play