Overwatch 2 servers hit unexpected server errors as players face long queue times

Overwatch 2 fans were already fearful of giant queue times ahead of launch, and those fears have quickly come true.

For those unaware, the Overwatch 2 launch time just hit, as the shooter sequel has launched as a free-to-play game on all platforms. Blizzard's servers are already taking an absolute beating at launch, as one quick scroll through social media discussion of the game will tell you.

Mostly, players are just seeing massive queue numbers in the tens of thousands, though some are seeing messages telling them there are '0 players ahead of you.' Others are hitting messages like 'Unexpected Server Error,' which is something Blizzard already says it's working on.

"We're aware that some players are encountering an Unexpected Server Error message when attempting to sign in," the company says in a tweet. "This is actively being worked on. Thank you for your patience!"

The Unexpected Server Error issue is apparently connected to players who have merged their PC and console issues, according to an official known issue tracker.

The same tracker also says Blizzard is aware of issues with missing skins, and is working on fixing more general server disconnects.

Server issues have been exacerbated by an ongoing Overwatch 2 DDoS attack reported by Blizzard boss Mike Ybarra.

Of course, launch issues for any big online game are common, and that even goes for platforms as long-running as Overwatch. Games like Final Fantasy 14 for example, have faced massive queue times and servers woes in the past - so much so that Square Enix even halted sales of Final Fantasy 14 late last year in December to allow the beleaguered game time to recover. 

If you're preparing to sign in, you should check out our guide on how to set up Overwatch 2 SMS protection as part of Defense Matrix to make sure you've got everything ready to go.