A report feature for the console version of Overwatch will be deploying to PlayStation 4 and Xbox One in the next patch according to a post from Jeff Kaplan on the official Overwatch forums.
While the PC version of Overwatch has a reporting system, the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 versions currently make use of built-in reporting solutions provided by Microsoft and Sony, respectively. The PC version of the game had some upgrades deployed in mid-March 2017 (which have since made their way into the game proper), but console players have been unable to get Blizzard to resolve any issues with troublesome players due to the reporting systems being outside of Blizzard Entertainment's control.
Jeff Kaplan has stated that the new reporting system will be available on console after the current PTR patch (which introduced Deathmatch and Team Deathmatch) has had a sufficient amount of testing. Mr. Kaplan was careful to state that the upcoming reporting system for consoles will be a work-in-progress with a number of useful features planned:
"Also, it's important to note the reporting system and punishments are very much an ongoing development for us. Improvements will continue over time. We are working on increased punishments for [high-frequency] offenders, email notifications when your reports result in disciplinary action (we're experimenting with this right now and we'll expand this as we refine it) and eventually notifications in the game client when your report results in disciplinary action." - Overwatch Game Director Jeff KaplanThe PC version of the game had its reporting system enhanced with harsher penalties at the end of July 2017. Blizzard Entertainment has stated that they will be working on improving the reporting system on all platforms in the coming year.
What do you think of Overwatch finally getting a report function on consoles that's independent of Microsoft's and Sony's built-in solutions? Do you think it will help combat troublesome players on those platforms or are there deeper issues that need to be resolved first? Let us know in the comments below!
