Overwatch 2 hero customization unavailable error explained – what is it and can you fix it?

Overwatch 2 hero customization unavailable error explained – what is it and can you fix it?
Alex Raisbeck Updated on by

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If you’ve received the Overwatch 2 Hero Customization unavailable error message, then you’re not alone. Following the release of the latest update, the message has popped up for many players whenever they join a game, no matter what game mode they’re playing. So what’s causing it, and can you fix it? We’re here to answer those questions.

If you’re after some other guides, check out all the Overwatch 2 Season 9 new skins as well as how to get Jade weapons in Overwatch 2 if you’re after some shiny, green weapons for your Heroes. For now though, let’s take a look at what the hero customization unavailable error is in Overwatch 2 and how to potentially fix it.

Overwatch 2 hero customization unavailable error: Standing in spawn on Samoa with a message in chat reading "Some of your hero customization is unavailable in this isntance."
Image captured by VideoGamer

What is the hero customization unavailable error in Overwatch 2?

When joining games, some players receive a message in a purple box in their chat window that reads “Some of your hero customization is unavailable in this instance.”, which seems to affect players regardless of what game mode or character they’re using.

While we don’t know the exact cause, we know that it’s likely caused by the addition of certain things in the game’s code that haven’t been released yet, such as new cosmetics or even a new Hero. This happened previously when Mauga was added to the files but not yet added to the game.

It could also simply be a case of server errors at Blizzard that have caused issues loading inventories or certain cosmetics for players.

Whatever the issue is, the important thing you should know is that it doesn’t have an impact on your game. Since the problem is with cosmetics that haven’t yet been added to the game, it doesn’t actually affect any of the cosmetics you already have, so you can continue using whatever skins you want.

How to fix hero customization unavailable error in Overwatch 2

It’s likely that the hero customization unavailable error is an issue on the Blizzard side of things, but there are a few things you can try to fix it for yourself. 

First things first, check your internet connection. If you have an unstable internet connection, there may be issues connecting with the servers causing you not to load your cosmetics properly. If possible, use a wired connection instead of a Wi-Fi connection to make it as stable as possible.

If that doesn’t work, then you should verify the integrity of your game files. This can be done in your settings in your Steam or Battle.net library, depending on which launcher you use. If there are missing files causing the issue, this will install them.

If neither of these methods work, then it’s likely that the problem is on Blizzard’s side. In this case, we’re afraid that you’re just going to have to wait for a fix. Luckily, it’s not going to affect your gameplay, and you can play completely normally in spite of it.

That’s everything you need to know about the Overwatch 2 hero customization unavailable error message. If you’re after some more guides, why not check out the best Overwatch 2 graphics settings as well as the best CPU for Overwatch 2 if you’re after a new one?