Valorant Expands to Console Gaming, Beta Coming June 14th
Riot Games' popular tactical shooter Valorant is finally making its way to consoles after being a PC exclusive since its 2020 launch. The developer has announced a limited beta version for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, set to begin on June 14th.
Key Details of the Console Beta:
- Availability: Initially limited to the US, UK, Canada, Europe, and Japan
- Registration: Players can sign up for the beta on the official website
- Crossplay: Not supported between PC and console versions
- Cross-progression: Enabled for skins and player progression across platforms
Custom-Built for Consoles
Riot emphasizes that the console version features custom-built gameplay designed specifically for controller input. Production director Arnar Hrafn Gylfason stated:
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.
To address the precision aiming challenges on consoles, Riot is introducing a new Focus Aim system. This feature aims to improve hip-fire accuracy while maintaining fast movement when not active.
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| An intense shootout scene exemplifying the tactical gameplay that Valorant aims to deliver on consoles |
Controversy: PS5 Gyro Aiming Excluded
Some PlayStation 5 fans have expressed disappointment that Valorant won't utilize the DualSense controller's gyroscopic aiming capabilities. According to Coleman Palm, Valorant's product management lead for gameplay, this decision was made to maintain parity between console versions, as Xbox controllers lack equivalent technology.
Palm did note that gyro aiming could potentially be implemented for PlayStation players in the future, as some developers on the console port team view it as an interesting feature.
Looking Ahead
While no official full release date has been announced, this beta marks a significant step in Valorant's expansion. The game will face stiff competition in the console shooter market, going up against established titles like Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Overwatch 2.
As Valorant ventures into new territory, its success on consoles will likely depend on how well Riot has adapted the precise, tactical gameplay that made it a hit on PC to the world of controller-based gaming.