Player gets permaban in Overwatch 2 after using the term 'Noob'

Overwatch 2 players might want to think twice before tossing around classic gaming insults. Blizzard has upheld a permanent ban against a user who called another player a “noob.”

Since its release, Overwatch 2 has gradually regained popularity with the community, thanks to the addition of new heroes, game modes, and much-requested competitive features like hero bans and map voting. But despite gameplay improvements, Blizzard’s strict reporting and suspension system continues to frustrate many fans.

According to a post on the Overwatch subreddit, a player received a permanent suspension for “inappropriate communications.” The chat log revealed the supposedly offensive words: “noob,” “?,” and “worth.”

When the player appealed, Blizzard support refused to reverse the decision. A Game Master explained, “This account has received multiple penalties for this type of behavior and thus multiple opportunities to correct that behavior. After my review, I can confirm that the suspension was issued correctly and will be upheld.”

Although “noob” is often used as light-hearted or joking slang to describe underperforming players, Blizzard appears to be taking a zero-tolerance approach to any language deemed offensive.

The community reaction was immediate and largely critical. One user commented, “Unbelievably pathetic. ‘Noob’ is a player title, for Christ’s sake.” Another said, “Just make filters for the babies that can’t handle words. Why is this even a thing?”

This isn’t the first time Blizzard’s enforcement policies have raised eyebrows. In 2024, pro player Mason ‘durpee’ Kuehne was banned for typing “f**k,” a word ironically alluded to by hero Cassidy’s “BAMF” belt buckle. And in early 2024, another player claimed to be suspended for saying “GG,” “yippeee,” and “nice shot.”

With Blizzard showing no signs of easing up on chat moderation, Overwatch 2 players may want to steer clear of even the most harmless-seeming phrases—or risk losing access to their accounts permanently.