How to unlock competitive in Overwatch 2

Amy Chen

Amy Chen

Unlock this game mode to test your skills against other players in competitive play.

Overwatch 2 has a competitive game mode where players can duke it out against other teams and climb the ranks each season. However, you must unlock this game mode first. Read on for our guide on how to unlock Competitive Play in Overwatch 2!

Enter Overwatch 2 ranked by winning 50 games of Quick Play first (Screenshot via esports.gg)
Enter Overwatch 2 ranked by winning 50 games of Quick Play first (Screenshot via esports.gg)

How to unlock competitive in Overwatch 2

  1. Complete the FTUE requirement if applicable
  2. Confirm your phone number
  3. Go into the Unranked mode
  4. Select the Quick Play option
  5. Complete 50 games of Quick Play
Enter Overwatch 2's Unranked mode to get started (Screenshot via esports.gg)
Enter Overwatch 2's Unranked mode to get started (Screenshot via esports.gg)

How to unlock ranked in Overwatch 2

In order to enter the Competitive Play game mode in Overwatch 2, you must complete the First Time User Experience (FTUE) if applicable. According to Blizzard, the FTUE is an introduction to the game designed for new players with an account created on or after October 4, 2022. Players who own the Watchpoint Pack or played the first iteration of the game don't need to go through the FTUE.

How to enter Overwatch 2's Quick Play game mode (Screenshot via esports.gg)
How to enter Overwatch 2's Quick Play game mode (Screenshot via esports.gg)

Does Overwatch 2 still need a phone number?

Yes, in order to play Overwatch 2, you must have your phone number attached to your account. This does not apply if you've played since June 9, 2021. According to Blizzard, the same phone number can't be used twice.

VOIP, WiFi, text-only, or internet phone services do not work, either. However, as of November 17, 2022, players who have an eligible prepaid phone can register their number on Battle.net and play Overwatch 2.

SMS Protect is a part of the game's Defense Matrix initiative (Image via Blizzard Entertainment)
SMS Protect is a part of the game's Defense Matrix initiative (Image via Blizzard Entertainment)

"We have continued to listen to player feedback and evaluate our barriers of entry that can prevent players from being able to join. As a result, we’re making a new change to our SMS Protect Requirements to play Overwatch 2 starting with today’s patch," Blizzard wrote in 2022. "Effective immediately, anyone with an eligible prepaid phone can now register their number on their Battle.net account and play Overwatch 2."

That's all for now. Stick around on esports.gg for more news, guides, and updates.