Since Overwatch was released in 2016, it has been a highly regarded video game among gamers of all ages. Blizzard Entertainment has just released Overwatch 2, which is on-track to becoming just as popular as (or surpassing) its predecessor.
While Overwatch can be a fun and enjoyable game, it can also have an negative impact on mental health for individuals who may be predisposed to developing a gaming disorder. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the basic ways Overwatch can affect mental health and offer some tips for healthy gaming.
How to Mitigate the Potential for Addiction While Enjoying a Healthy Gaming Experience with Overwatch 2
Background on the Overwatch Video Game Series
Overwatch 2 has been released and is already gaining in popularity among gamers of all ages. In fact, the game was so popular at launch it was nearly impossible to connect with servers for the first few days. Now that everything has stabilized, thousands of people across the globe at any given time are playing matches against each other to gain victory for their team and save the world!
The game is a sequel to the popular Overwatch, which was released in 2016. Overwatch 2 expands on the first game with more characters, locations, and items to collect. Overwatch 2 is a first-person shooter game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It features a variety of game modes, including cooperative and competitive modes.
The main goal of the gameplay in Overwatch 2 is to work together as a team to achieve objectives, such as capturing points or escorting a payload. Players can choose from a variety of heroes, each with their own unique abilities. Overwatch has been praised for its inclusivity, as it features a diverse cast of characters. During each match, two teams of five players compete against each other in first-person firefights. Each character serves a specific role for their team and comes equipped with unique abilities that help to differentiate the playstyle of each hero.
Overwatch 2 can be played on a variety of platforms, including PC, as well as Xbox and PlayStation consoles. Overwatch 2 is available as a free-to-play game. However, there are some in-game microtransactions that can be purchased. These include items such as new skins for heroes, voice lines, and the game pass which is used to unlock additional in-game items as players level up their player profile.
Understanding the Basics of Overwatch 2
Overwatch 2 is a team-based game that relies heavily on players working together in order to be successful. In order to capture points or escort a payload, players need to be able to work together effectively. This means communicating with each other, coordinating attacks, and using each player’s abilities to the best of their ability.
One of the things that makes Overwatch so much fun to play is the way it uses the tank, heal, and damage system. The tank class is designed to be the main protector for the team, while the healers are responsible for keeping everyone on the team alive. The damage dealers are responsible for doing the most damage to the enemy team and are essential in helping the team to win. This system ensures that everyone on the team has a specific role to play, and that no one is left out. It also ensures that players are constantly working together as a team in order to achieve victory.
Successful teams in Overwatch 2 and other online games typically have good communication and are able to work together effectively. They are also able to adapt to the situation and change their strategy as needed. If one member of the team is having a bad game, the others will need to step up and pick up the slack.
Online games can be a lot of fun, but they can also be challenging. It’s important to remember that it’s just a game, and that everyone is there to have fun. When things get too intense, take a break, step away from the game, and come back later.
Cognitive Exercises in Overwatch 2
Playing Overwatch 2 and other first-person shooters can have a number of cognitive benefits. These games require quick thinking and reflexes, as players must react quickly to enemy fire. In addition, players must often keep track of a number of things at once, such as their health, the location of their teammates, and the location of the enemies. This can help to improve cognitive flexibility and attentional control.
Linking abilities together to solve high speed strategic problems is also a cognitive challenge that Overwatch players must face. For example, using Cole Cassidy’s flashbang to stun an enemy, then having a teammate follow up with a strategic shot from Widowmaker’s sniper rifle requires calculated planning and precise execution. Players must be able to quickly assess a situation and come up with a plan of action. This can help to improve problem-solving skills in a metaphorical way. Players who engage in therapy sessions can then use this experience to identify their own strategic strengths that makes them the hero of their own challenges. They can use the critical thinking they use at high speeds in their favorite games to become an enthusiastic part of their own treatment goals.
First person shooter games can also help to improve memory. Players need to be able to remember the location of enemies, as well as the abilities of their teammates. In Overwatch, each hero has a unique set of abilities that must be memorized in order to play effectively. This can help to improve working memory and spatial awareness.
In addition, playing Overwatch 2 and other team-based games can provide casual opportunities to practice certain social skills. These games require players to work together as a team in order to achieve objectives. The speed of these messages must be quick and obvious. You also have to engage in emotional regulation in order to keep your poise and help other people follow through with any ideas you share. Many people might lose their cool during tense matches, which helps those who learn to hone their leadership skills outshine the rest. Overall, games like Overmatch 2 can become a unique “play therapy” style way to improve communication and teamwork skills.
Healthy Gaming as an Overwatch 2 Player
While Overwatch 2 can be a fun and enjoyable game, it is important to remember to practice healthy gaming habits. This is especially important for those who are susceptible to developing video game addiction or other mental health issues. Some basic tips for healthy gaming include:
– Taking breaks often, especially if you start to feel overwhelmed or stressed. Stand up and walk around at least a few minutes every hour. Breaks in between matches are an excellent opportunity to develop this habit in games like Overwatch 2.
– Making sure to get enough sleep and exercise, as these are important for overall health and well-being. Set alarms or reminders so you do not get involved in the endless cycle of “one more match.”
– Eating healthy meals and staying hydrated. Have a healthy snack and a bottle of water next to your gaming setup. This can help cognitive functioning and keep your body healthy.
– Avoiding playing for long periods of time, as this can lead to eye strain or other health issues. Have an idea when you are going to end the play session before you sit down to login. This dramatically helps people keep a healthy routine in their play habits.
If you or someone you know is struggling with an unhealthy balance of gaming in their life or other mental health issues, there are resources available to help.
Need Help?
If you are worried that you may be forming an unhealthy connection with the way you play Overwatch 2, Kindbridge can help. We offer a team of nationwide mental health and coaching options who are specifically trained to work with people who are seeking a healthy balance in their relationship with technology across their many life areas.
Step 1: Take Our Video Game Addiction Quiz
The first step is to take our online video game addiction quiz to establish how your gaming with games like Overwatch 2 is affecting your life. it takes less than 5-minutes to answer a few questions. You will then receive an instant assessment of your gaming habits and whether they are cause for concern.
Step 2: Book Your FREE Consultation
If the online quiz suggests that you have a gaming problem, professional support is recommended. At Kindbridge, we offer specialized counseling for video game addiction that’s accessible, affordable, and convenient. Receive personalized treatment from a fully-licensed therapist in the comfort of your home.
Book a free 15-minute consultation so we can assess you needs and recommend a plan of action.
Featured image: @acfromspace via Unsplash