Valorant, developed by Riot Games, is a multiplayer online tactical shooter that has been globally popular since its release in 2020. With its rich game modes, unique character designs, and diverse weapon systems, every aspect of Valorant is a highlight. Many compare it to CSGO, Overwatch, and Team Fortress, but I think each game has unique strengths. Objectively speaking, these small-scale tactical shooters have similar core gameplay, but their design details and balance adjustments make each one distinctive. Overall, each has its own strengths and is a standout in today’s gaming world.
Of course, today’s article isn’t about comparing these games but addressing a question that Valorant players care more about: how to excel in the Valorant console version?
Yes, if you’re not familiar with Valorant, it might be hard to imagine that such a popular game hasn’t yet landed on console platforms, especially considering it already has a mobile version! Over the past two years, players have scrutinized every detail, discovering job listings for console developers, hints in staff interviews, and even snippets in game code. Various rumors have emerged. However, this question now has an answer. Riot Games confirmed a few days ago that Valorant will be available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. So, what should players prepare for the Valorant console version?
Differences Between Valorant PC and Console Versions
Due to platform differences, the same game can vary quite a bit between PC and console versions, such as controls, account registration, and online connectivity. Before diving into preparations, it’s essential to understand these differences:
- Graphics and Performance: The PC version usually offers more customizable graphics settings and higher frame rates, allowing players to tweak various elements to match their hardware capabilities. Console hardware is fixed, so settings are optimized for consistent performance.
- Controls: PC games support a wider range of input devices, including keyboards, mice, and various controllers, offering more precision and flexibility. Console games are generally designed around standard game controllers, optimized for ease of use and comfort.
- Mods: PC games often support extensive modding, allowing players to alter gameplay, add features, and improve graphics. Console games have limited mod support, with only a few titles offering this feature.
- Online Services and Cross-Platform Play: PC games feature various platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, and Riot, with free online services and cross-platform support. Console online services require subscriptions like PlayStation Plus and Xbox Live Gold, and cross-platform play depends on the console platform’s policies.
5 Things You Need to Prepare
1. Choose Your Console
Valorant will be available in both PlayStation and Xbox versions, with no differences in game content. Your choice should depend on which console’s other games you prefer since each has its own exclusives. You probably wouldn’t spend hundreds of dollars on a console just for Valorant. Additionally, Riot has partnered with Xbox, and all Riot games are now included in Xbox Game Pass (an exclusive subscription service from Xbox that offers hundreds of games to play), providing more in-game experience and free access to agents.
2. Optimize Your Network
This might be the most crucial preparation step. While the server distribution for both PC and console versions is likely the same, the unique characteristics of console hardware and networks make us more prone to encountering issues. Valorant download issues, high ping, and packet loss that already exist in the PC version may also persist on consoles. Therefore, you will need a specialized game VPN for Valorant to reduce network disruptions caused by data transmission obstacles, thereby improving game smoothness and experience. On PC, many players have validated GearUP Booster as a great choice. They have years of experience in game network optimization, and their exclusive technologies far surpass those of their competitors. They even offer a hardware product called HYPEREV specifically for consoles, using the same technology but with a simpler user interface. You might say you already have a VPN, but GearUP Booster is different from a traditional VPN. It prioritizes game traffic to the highest level without affecting other applications, and most importantly, it’s challenging to add VPN services to a console.
3. Prepare Your Account
If you already have a Riot account, you can link it to your PlayStation or Xbox account, allowing you to share the account data without needing to re-register. You can follow the process on the PlayStation and Xbox websites to complete the linkage. Don’t worry; you can unlink the accounts anytime.
4. Understand the Control Mechanism
For the console version, you almost have no other control options and have to use a gamepad. Using adapters to connect a keyboard and mouse often results in significant lag. However, don’t worry too much. Even if you’re not familiar with using a gamepad for shooting games, the console version comes with an aim assist feature, which helps you adjust the Valorant crosshair within a reasonable range. With some practice, its accuracy won’t be inferior to that on a PC. Regarding gamepad selection, if you demand higher performance, you can opt for the professional gamepads each platform offers, such as the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller and DualSense Edge. These offer more adjustable configurations and replaceable components, further enhancing control feel.
5. Appropriate Display Device
Both PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X support 4K and 120fps displays with HDR. Players familiar with Valorant know the importance of visual effects in the game. Whether a monitor or TV, you should prepare one that supports these features, giving you an advantage in matches.
We are eagerly anticipating that the console version of Valorant will attract a whole new group of users, making the player base even larger and the gaming ecosystem healthier. No matter what, once you have made all the above preparations, you’ll be ready to join the console matches. While many factors can influence the outcome of a game, trust me, you’ll definitely have a leg up on the competition