So, Overwatch 2 is having the phone requirement removed... if you've already played the original from 9Jun21 to now.
If you're a new player, or didn't happen to play the game in that timespan, you still have to hand over your personal information to a company who will treat it with all the care and respect of a rabid wolverine.
‘Overwatch 2’ Is Dropping The SMS Protect Phone Number Requirement For Most ‘Overwatch 1’ Players
Blizzard has apologized for the game's rocky launch and provided an update on the state of affairs.
www.forbes.com
If you're a new player, or didn't happen to play the game in that timespan, you still have to hand over your personal information to a company who will treat it with all the care and respect of a rabid wolverine.