Overwatch.

 

 

Overwatch:  A milder, less harsh Call of Duty, still lots of shooting.

Overwatch players use a variety of firearms (pistols, machine guns, laser blasters etc.).  The combat is “frenetic with realistic gunfire, cries of pain, and explosions.”                                                                                                       

Apart from this, Overwatch has mostly non-realistic looking violence.  Hence the age rating is for 13 and up.  Games, such as Call of Duty and the Team Fortress games, have a lot of mature content.  It is limited fortunately with Overwatch.  There is no graphic language, innuendo, or sexual content in the game itself.                                                                                                                                    

However, your child may still be exposed to graphic content if they engage with the Overwatch fandom outside of gaming.  The main reason Overwatch is inappropriate for young kids, is the fact that the game can only be played online with strangers of the same level.  This hugely increases the chances of cyberbullying or a child falling victim to online predators.                                                                                                        

Overwatch is a shooter game with players using various weapons to eliminate other players on the opposing team.  While the game is designed to be cartoonish and not overly gory, it still depicts violence.  There is the addiction factor to consider, as with all video games.  Add in that being online if offers in-game purchases, which can be tempting for children. 

Parents should monitor their children’s spending habits and consider setting up parental controls to restrict in-game purchases.  Overall, parents should consider the age and maturity level of their children before allowing them to play Overwatch.  Monitor their gameplay and online interactions closely to ensure their safety.  It’s important to have open communication with children about the potential risks and to set boundaries around screen time and online behavior. 

Here is an overview of how to play, the dangers for children, some parental controls and advice for Overwatch:

How to Play:  In Overwatch, players join teams and work together to complete objectives or eliminate opposing players.  Each player selects a hero character with unique abilities, and teamwork and strategy are crucial for success.  The game offers various modes, including quick play, competitive play, and arcade modes, providing a range of gameplay options.

Teamwork and Strategy:  Overwatch promotes teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking as players collaborate to achieve objectives.  This can enhance problem-solving skills and cooperation among players.

Competitive Environment:  The game’s competitive mode offers players a chance to test their skills and climb the ranked ladder.  It can be both thrilling and challenging, fostering a sense of achievement and healthy competition.

Positive Role Models:  Overwatch features diverse hero characters with distinct personalities and backgrounds, which can provide positive representation and serve as role models for children.

Overwatch is a team-based first-person shooter game that emphasizes teamwork, strategy, and objective-based gameplay.  Each player selects a hero from a diverse roster, each with unique abilities and roles.  The objective is to work together with your team to complete specific objectives and outplay the opposing team.

Understanding Objectives:

Payload:  In Payload maps, one team pushes a vehicle (the payload) along a designated path, while the other team defends and tries to stop its progress.

Control  Points: Control Point maps feature capture points that teams must secure and defend.  The team that captures and holds the majority of the points wins the round.

Hybrid:  Hybrid maps combine elements of Payload and Control Point maps. Initially, teams must capture a control point, and then a payload unlocks, which they must escort.

Team Composition and Roles:

Tank: Tanks have high value as they are responsible for creating space, absorbing damage, and initiating team fights.

Damage:  Damage heroes deal consistent or burst damage to eliminate enemies and control the battlefield.

Support:  Support heroes heal and provide utility to keep teammates alive and enhance their effectiveness.

Strategies and Objectives:

Communication:  Communication is key.  Use voice chat or in-game commands to coordinate with your team, share crucial information, and make strategic decisions.

Team Coordination:  Stick together as a team, coordinate pushes, and focus fire on priority targets to secure kills.

Objective Focus:  Always prioritize the objective.  Understand the win conditions for each game mode and make sure your team is actively working to secure or defend them.

Counter-Picking:  Adapt your hero selection based on the enemy team’s composition. Consider countering specific enemy heroes or finding synergies within your team.

Ultimate Economy:  Coordinate the use of ultimate abilities with your team. Combining the “ultimates”, can turn the tide of battles and secure objectives.

Map Control:  Utilize the map’s geography and take advantageous positions to control high ground, deny enemy movement, and create opportunities for your team.

Flanking and Dive Strategies:  Employ flanking maneuvers and dive tactics to disrupt the enemy team’s formation, create distractions, and eliminate key targets.

Focus on Team Survival:  Protect and support your healers and vulnerable teammates. Ensuring team survival is crucial for sustained pushes and objective control.

Hero-specific Tips:

Learn your hero’s abilities, strengths, and weaknesses. Understand their role and how they can contribute to the team’s objectives.  Practice aim and positioning to maximize your impact and increase your chances of securing kills or supporting your team effectively.

Remember, Overwatch is a dynamic game that requires adaptability, teamwork, and quick decision-making.  Experiment with different heroes, strategies, and synergies to find what works best for you and your team.  Stay flexible, communicate, and be willing to adjust your playstyle to counter the enemy and achieve victory. Good luck and have fun!