Valorant from Riot Games has gained significant popularity among a vast community of players. The game regularly tops viewership charts, and its audience continues to grow each year. In light of this, the developer decided to expand the community by announcing the game's release on consoles.
Originally designed for PC, this tactical shooter has become a favorite among shooting enthusiasts. However, with the recent console release, including for PlayStation and Xbox, the developers faced new challenges, particularly regarding cross-platform gameplay and fair competition. Not long ago, we discussed the potential risks associated with using a keyboard and mouse on consoles in Valorant. Now, complaints from players about lifetime bans for using third-party devices have begun to flood in.
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Why is using a keyboard and mouse on consoles punishable by a ban?
One of the most pressing issues Riot Games has faced is the use of keyboard and mouse on consoles. Although these peripherals offer players greater precision and ease of using agent abilities, they create an uneven playing field when used alongside traditional console controllers. The difference between the two input methods can lead to a complete imbalance in competitive games like Valorant.
Despite this, many players try to bypass these bans and use various methods to connect third-party peripherals to their consoles. Riot Games actively bans these players and reiterates that they have no intention of changing their stance on cross-platform policy.
Riot's position
Riot Games has made it clear that it is committed to maintaining fair conditions for all players. As such, the company has implemented a strict policy against using keyboards and mice on consoles. This policy aims to preserve the integrity of the game and ensure equal opportunities for all players, regardless of the platform they choose.
By doing so, the developer aims to attract a larger new audience, ensuring that all players who transfer or create accounts on consoles are on equal footing and do not experience discomfort from the advantages that PC players have gained over the years on that platform.
Measures to control misconduct
To enforce this policy, Riot has introduced a robust detection system that identifies unauthorized use of keyboards and mice on consoles. This system is integrated into the server side of the game, monitoring discrepancies between expected input data and the actual data received. Players using these peripherals may face various penalties, ranging from temporary suspensions to permanent bans, depending on the severity and frequency of the violation.
Recently, Riot Games has tightened rules on player behavior, indicating strict control over the community's mood within the game. Given the severity of the penalties, players should not expect leniency from moderation regarding account unbans after violations. Furthermore, connecting third-party devices will be considered a severe violation and will be punished with the strictest measures.
At the time of writing, various social platforms such as Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) are filled with reports of account bans due to using keyboards and mice on the console version of Valorant. We have previously discussed in one of our articles how some players, despite the ban, bypass Riot's protection system and connect to the game using the XIM technology, which is considered forbidden not only in Valorant.
Community reaction
The community's reaction to these measures has been mixed. On one hand, many players and professional enthusiasts support Riot's stance, appreciating the efforts to maintain integrity and balance in the gameplay. On the other hand, some console players who prefer the precision of a keyboard and mouse feel that the ban is too restrictive and hinders their ability to play the game as they would like.
On Reddit, various methods for bypassing the system are actively discussed, along with calls for the developer to reconsider its stance on the ban and the lack of cross-platform play between PC and PS5/Xbox Series S/X consoles.
The future of Valorant's cross-platform play
Riot Games' decision to ban the use of keyboards and mice on consoles is part of a broader initiative to ensure a fair and enjoyable gaming experience for everyone. As the game continues to evolve and attract players from different platforms, Riot will likely continue to refine its policies and control mechanisms to address emerging issues and consider community feedback.
Discussions on this topic are unlikely to die down, and the community will always be divided. Many fans believe that due to community pressure and the high number of violations, Riot might eventually decide to allow PC peripherals to be used with the console version of Valorant. However, at present, such a feature is completely absent, and whether it will be available in the future remains uncertain.
Conclusion
The ban on using keyboards and mice for console players in Valorant highlights Riot Games' commitment to ensuring fairness and balance in their competitive ecosystem. While this decision may not be popular with all players, it is necessary to maintain equality and enjoyment for everyone. As Valorant continues to grow and attract new players from various platforms, Riot's efforts to maintain fair gameplay conditions will be crucial to preserving the game's integrity and competitive spirit.
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