Valorant, Riot’s tactical shooter game, has been a PC-exclusive since its debut in 2020. However, the game is now expanding its horizons as the developer has unveiled plans for a limited beta release on consoles. Players on the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S can register for the beta starting on June 14th. The beta will initially be available in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Europe, and Japan, with a potential global rollout to follow shortly after.
Riot has emphasized that the console versions of Valorant will offer “custom-built gameplay.” However, one notable restriction is the absence of crossplay between console and PC platforms. This decision was made for competitive integrity reasons. Nevertheless, players who choose to play on both PC and console will benefit from cross-progression, ensuring that their skins and progress carry over seamlessly between platforms.
Production director Arnar Hrafn Gylfason expressed the team’s commitment to ensuring that Valorant’s core competitive gameplay feels natural on a controller. Gylfason stated, “We were adamant that Valorant’s core, competitive gameplay must feel natural on a controller…We hope we nailed it, but ultimately, our players will have the final say.” This dedication to maintaining gameplay quality highlights the developer’s focus on player satisfaction and experience.
In addition to the console beta announcement, Riot also teased a mobile version of Valorant in 2021. Despite the initial reveal, there has been limited information on the mobile version’s progress since then. The potential expansion to mobile platforms indicates Riot’s commitment to reaching a broader audience and adapting the game for diverse gaming experiences.
As Valorant prepares to make its debut on consoles through a limited beta release, players can anticipate unique gameplay features tailored for the new platform. While crossplay may not be available for competitive reasons, the promise of cross-progression ensures a seamless gaming experience across different devices. Riot’s dedication to preserving Valorant’s core gameplay principles while adapting to new platforms reflects a commitment to quality and player satisfaction. With the upcoming console beta and the teased mobile version on the horizon, Valorant’s expansion continues to evolve, promising exciting new opportunities for both existing and prospective players.
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