Blizzard says Overwatch 2's servers are experiencing a "mass DDoS attack", preventing players from accessing the newly launched game.

Players have reported unexpected server errors and difficulties joining Overwatch 2 games throughout the evening following today's free-to-play launch, with some claiming to be experiencing queues of as many as 40,000 other players.

An earlier tweet by Blizzard boss Mike Ybarra acknowledged today's server woes but gave no indication they might be the result of anything other that launch day teething troubles, only thanking players for their patience and pledging to "get [them] into the fun".

However, Ybarra has now posted a follow-up tweet suggesting today's Overwatch 2 launch is being affected by the malicious actions of a third-party.

"Unfortunately we are experiencing a mass DDoS attack on our servers," he wrote.

Tonight's ongoing server issues were briefly alluded to in a Known Issues post shortly after launch but no further updates have yet been shared.

Become a supporter of Eurogamer and you can view the site completely ad-free, as well as gaining exclusive access to articles, podcasts and conversations that will bring you closer to the team, the stories, and the games we all love.

Sony says its PlayStation games won't release on PC for "at least a year".

Wordle answer today for Wednesday, 5th October: What is the word today for 473

Heardle answer today for Wednesday, 5th October: What is the song today for 223

The biggest rewards from Overwatch 2's first Battle Pass

Podcast | Exactly how realistic are horses in games

Premium only | Off Topic: Take a minute to appreciate Cookin' with Coolio's incredible scallops recipe

Premium only | Off Topic: Reading City of Glass in comic form

Bad puns and video games since 1999