Riot Games’ Valorant has finally made its much-anticipated leap from PC to consoles. Initially released for PC in 2020, this free-to-play 5v5 tactical shooter has garnered a massive following. Now, console players can join the fray as Riot Games rolls out an open beta for current-gen consoles, allowing more players to experience the intense, strategic gameplay that Valorant offers.
Beta Availability and Regions
The open beta is currently available in specific regions, namely Brazil, Canada, Europe, Japan, and the United States. This limited release is part of Riot Games’ strategy to ensure a smooth and stable transition from closed playtests to a broader audience. The beta aims to gather feedback and make necessary adjustments before a full launch.
Interestingly, Riot Games has not set a formal end date for the open beta. The beta will remain active until the developers are confident in the game’s stability and overall player experience. This approach allows for continuous improvement based on player feedback, ensuring that the final product meets the high standards expected by the gaming community.
Console-Specific Features and Limitations
While console players can team up with their friends on the same console platform, there is no crossplay with PC players. Riot Games has emphasized the importance of competitive integrity, stating that separating console and PC players is crucial to maintaining a fair and consistent experience across platforms. This decision ensures that all players, regardless of their chosen platform, have a level playing field and can enjoy the game without disadvantages.
Progression and Cosmetics
One of the standout features of Valorant’s console beta is the seamless integration of progression and cosmetics between platforms. PC players will have access to their entire collection of skins and cosmetics on both PC and consoles. This cross-progression means that any battlepass progression, unlocked agents, and skins will be saved and available even after the beta period ends. Additionally, players do not need a PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass subscription to participate in the beta, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Combatting Toxicity in Valorant
Riot Games has been proactive in addressing player behavior and toxicity within Valorant. In a recent discussion, Anna Donlon, the head of Valorant at Riot Games, outlined upcoming changes aimed at creating a more positive and inclusive community. This initiative is part of Riot’s long-standing effort to reduce toxic behavior and ensure that all players can enjoy the game in a respectful environment.
In July 2022, Riot Games began collecting in-game voice communications in North America as part of a broader effort to combat disruptive behavior. This data collection allows the developers to identify and address toxic behavior more effectively, fostering a healthier community. The ongoing commitment to improving player behavior underscores Riot’s dedication to providing a safe and enjoyable gaming experience for everyone.