Testing a new patch on the PTR of Overwatch . In this patch, it is now possible to enable subtitles for the hearing impaired. The subtitles transcribe all the heroes’ voicelines. Most heroes are not affected by this – but one heroine is greatly impacted.
How do subtitles work? The subtitles in the current PTR patch of Overwatch ensure that players see text at the bottom of the screen when a hero nearby speaks or when something happens.
The displayed subtitles can show all events or only “critical gameplay”. What exactly is included in critical gameplay is still unknown.
Who is hit the hardest? It’s about the master of stealth, Sombra. Since her rework, Sombra has the ability to remain permanently cloaked, among other things. The cloak is only broken when she attacks or performs other actions. However, she does speak during this.
Subtitles: A nerf for Sombra?
This is why subtitles are a nerf for Sombra: When Sombra slips out of her cloak and becomes visible again, it is accompanied by a short comment from her, such as:
I was here all along.
When Sombra uses her ultimate, an EMP, right after that, opponents usually do not have enough time to react immediately after the voiceline and get hit.
However, with subtitles, her appearance is now visible from any position where she can be heard. As soon as she starts speaking, players with subtitles can see and react to her. This is clearly shown by Twitter user Andy in a short clip:
What effects does this have? On Reddit, people are already discussing whether the subtitle setting will become mandatory for Overwatch pros if it should be retained. It is simply easier to notice certain things like Sombra this way and could represent the “tipping point”.
Others argue that sounds are already more meaningful than subtitles and are easier to notice. The biggest problem is when the subtitles appear slightly before the actual text.
Will this stay? The subtitles only came with the patch on June 24 to the PTR. They will presumably be tested for a while longer. Issues like this with Sombra might be subject to closer examination.
Some other heroes are currently experiencing a high phase:
