Overwatch Agents: Everything You Need to Know

Overwatch Agents is not an actual feature in Overwatch, but a service that the community is pushing for to reduce hacking and griefing in games. The idea comes from a system that exists in Counter Strike: Global Offensive, ironically called Overwatch.

Here's how it would work if Blizzard did decide to implement it:

Overwatch Agents

As it stands, Blizzard has to rely pretty heavily on automated systems to filter through reports or scout game data for potential hackers, cheaters, or throwers.

If the big problem is the lack of manpower at Blizzard, then the easiest fix lies with the community. CS:GO's Overwatch system lets qualified players review replays of in-game reports from the perspective of multiple players involved. These investigators act as Valve's eyes, aiding the automated Valve Anti-Cheat by flagging players who seem to be cheating.

The idea of a community-based review system isn't new — it comes up all the time on the Overwatch forums and subreddit. Recently, though, YouTuber "Blame the Controller - Overwatch" put out a video on the subject, where he gave a rundown on all the specifics.

Not every community moderation effort is as successful as CSGO's Overwatch system. For instance, League of Legends used to have a Tribunal system, which was indefinitely removed largely because Riot couldn't find a way to encourage players to participate without biasing the results.

In the past, Blizzard has staunchly stood against this form of community moderation, and it's unclear whether they'll be changing their minds any time soon. Perhaps enough pressure from the community might get them to try the system out.

Cover Image Courtesy of Blizzard Entertainment