Summary
The testing period for the console versions of popular Riot Games shooterValoranthas officially expanded, with all PS5 and Xbox Series X players now able to join in. First launched in mid-2020 after several years in development, the tactical hero shooter quickly took the world of competitive gaming by storm on release. The game has seen praise for its variety of unique heroes and gameplay similar totactical shooters likeCounter-Strike: Global Offensive, even winning “Best Esports Game” at the 2022 Game Awards. Now, even more players are getting the chance to try out the Riot shooter.
WhileValorantofficially launched more than four years ago on PC, fans on console recently received some positive news about the game’s future. Riot Games confirmed at this year’s Summer Games Fest thatValorantwould be making the jump to consoles with a beta test beginning on June 14. The beta test did confirm thatValorant’s console version would not feature cross-play with the PC version at the time, though it does sport cross-progression. Riot Games is now rolling out the shooter for all fans on PlayStation and Xbox.
As reported by ComicBook,Valoranthas officially transitioned the hero shooter to an open beta available for all PS5 and Xbox Series X players. The open beta will be free and available for all console players without the need for an entry code like the game’s closed beta version, maintaining the cross-progression with the PC version. Riot Games has stated, however, that the console versions still will not feature cross-play with PC,citing “competitive integrity” inValorantas a major reason for the versions' separation.
Valorant Expands PS5, Xbox Series X Beta Test to All Players
The release ofValorant’s console version comes with several changes from its PC counterpart, aimed at smoothing out the experience for PS5 and Xbox players. The “Focus” system will work similarly to the “Hip Fire” system on PC, with players able to slow down to score a more precise shot. Riot Games has also confirmed that some Agents' abilities have been modified for the console version, in order to work better with a controller as opposed to a keyboard and mouse. The developer also confirmedValorant’s PS5 version will not use the DualSense’s Gyrocontrols for aiming.
The launch ofValorant’s open beta on consoles serves as the first major way for players to dive into the tactical shooter on another platform. Riot Games did confirm in 2021 that it intends to develop a mobile version ofValorant, though little information has surfaced in the years since the announcement. Leaks have also suggestedother platforms that may eventually hostValorant, including a version on Linux, the Nintendo Switch, and the Steam Deck.Valorant’s widespread console debut finally makes the massively popular shooter available for a whole new set of players.
Valorant
WHERE TO PLAY
VALORANT is a character-based 5v5 tactical shooter set on the global stage. Outwit, outplay, and outshine your competition with tactical abilities, precise gunplay, and adaptive teamwork.DEFY THE LIMITSBlend your style and experience on a global, competitive stage. You have 13 rounds to attack and defend your side using sharp gunplay and tactical abilities. And, with one life per-round, you’ll need to think faster than your opponent if you want to survive. Take on foes across Competitive and Unranked modes as well as Deathmatch and Spike Rush.CREATIVITY IS YOUR GREATEST WEAPONMore than guns and bullets, you’ll choose an Agent armed with adaptive, swift, and lethal abilities that create opportunities to let your gunplay shine. No two Agents play alike, just as no two highlight reels will look the same.FIGHT AROUND THE WORLDEach map is a playground to showcase your creative thinking. Purpose-built for team strategies, spectacular plays, and clutch moments. Make the play others will imitate for years to come.
