Riot Games’ popular hero shooter, Valorant, is finally making its way to consoles. The announcement, made during Summer Game Fest 2024, confirmed that Valorant will be available on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, with a limited beta starting on June 14.
Custom-built Valorant gameplay for consoles
The console versions of Valorant will feature custom-built gameplay tailored to maintain the core, competitive experience that PC players have enjoyed. This means no cross-play between PC and console, but Riot Games will offer a connected, shared inventory and cross-progression between accounts. Players can expect simultaneous platform releases for all live patch balances, new agents, maps, premium content, and other features.
“When exploring whether to bring Valorant to additional platforms, we knew we had to be able to offer the same uncompromising, competitive experience that we’ve provided to PC players for years: a precise, team-based, tactical shooter,” said production director Arnar Gylfason. “We were adamant that Valorant’s core, competitive gameplay must feel natural on a controller; and — if we couldn’t deliver on that gameplay promise — we had to be prepared to walk away from it. We hope we nailed it, but ultimately, our players will have the final say.”
New shooting mode for console players
To ensure console players get the same experience as PC players, Riot Games introduced a new shooting mode called “Focus.” This mode behaves like hip-fire but with reduced sensitivity. Players can use hip-fire for quick movements and peeking corners while utilizing focus mode for precision shots. This adaptation aims to provide a familiar yet enhanced shooting experience for console players without losing the benefits of Valorant’s aiming down sights (ADS) mechanics.
Beta details and release timeline
The limited beta for Valorant’s console versions will begin on June 14 in the U.S., Canada, United Kingdom, Europe, and Japan. Additional regions will follow soon after. This beta will allow Riot Games to gather feedback and make necessary adjustments before the full release.
Valorant’s journey so far
Released in 2020, Valorant quickly became a popular hero shooter, praised for its competitive gameplay and unique characters. In our original review, we noted, “Valorant is the most fun I’ve had with a multiplayer FPS since Valve’s Team Fortress 2. The flexibility of its magically-infused cast paired with a deep arsenal makes for a magnificent competitive canvas, if a tricky one to initially pick up.”
However, Valorant has faced challenges with player toxicity. Studio head Anna Donlon acknowledged this issue, stating that Riot “absolutely needs to do better” in protecting its players.
Valorant on consoles is becoming a reality and the beginning of a new chapter in esports
The arrival of Valorant on consoles marks an exciting new chapter for the game. With custom-built gameplay, new shooting modes, and a commitment to maintaining its competitive edge, console players can look forward to experiencing the intense, team-based action that has made Valorant a hit on PC. The limited beta starts on June 14, so get ready to join the fight on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.
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