The biggest gaming news these days is undoubtedly the announcement of Valorant coming to consoles. This multiplayer online competitive shooter from Riot Games is already one of the most popular games worldwide, with its popularity rivalling that of legendary games in the genre like CSGO (CS2). The addition of a console version will naturally attract many new players, some of whom may have never played on a console or experienced Valorant before. In this article, we’ve compiled 10 essential things you need to know about the Valorant console version. By the end, you’ll be better prepared to dive into this phenomenal game. So, let’s get started!

Which consoles can play Valorant?

Valorant will be available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S but not on Nintendo Switch. For the best gaming experience, it is recommended to use the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X due to their superior hardware performance compared to the Xbox Series S. You’ll also need a display device with an HDMI port, such as a monitor or TV. Both PS5 and XSX support 4K and 120FPS HDR output, so if your display device supports these features, that’s great, but it’s not mandatory for playing the game.

Is the Valorant console version free?

Yes, the Valorant console version is free, just like the PC version. You can download and join the game anytime. However, playing online games on consoles requires a subscription to either PlayStation Plus or Xbox Live Gold. The fees are relatively low, and subscribing also grants you access to other online games. Notably, due to the partnership between Riot Games and Xbox, all Riot games are included in the Xbox Game Pass subscription service. By subscribing to this service, you not only get access to online gaming but also gain additional experience, free agent usage, and access to hundreds of games already available on Xbox.

How to connect Valorant console version to the network?

Both PS5 and Xbox support WiFi and wired connections. Although the server distribution for the Valorant console version is the same as the PC version, different platform network architectures may cause issues like Valorant download problems, high ping, and packet loss on consoles. This has been confirmed by numerous shooting games on consoles, especially for players in different regions. Fortunately, specialized Valorant game VPN can solve these issues. We also recommend using a wired connection for more stability.

What are the differences in the Valorant console version?

First, the control method: consoles only use controllers, and external keyboard and mouse setups often have severe latency issues that ruin the gaming experience. 

Second, plugin usage: the console’s closed system and Valorant’s built-in Vanguard anti-cheat system prevent any modifications, including non-gameplay affecting MODs. 

Lastly, game settings: the console versions have standardized optimizations, offering fewer customization options compared to the PC version, which makes the console version more stable with fewer crashes and errors.

Should you choose the PlayStation or Xbox version?

There is no difference in game content or performance between the two. The game supports cross-platform play, so your experience is the same on either platform as long as you bind your Riot account. If you haven’t purchased a console yet, consider the differences in their game libraries, as you will likely want to play other games on your console too.

The following questions are for players who have not played Valorant before:

How is Valorant different from other games in the genre?

Although Valorant borrows elements from CSGO and Overwatch, it offers unique features. For example, while both Valorant and Overwatch combine shooting with character abilities, Valorant imposes more conditions on abilities, emphasizing shooting accuracy. Moreover, unlike CSGO, Valorant allows players to purchase abilities in addition to weapons. Understanding these differences will help you get up to speed with Valorant more quickly.

What are the payment points in Valorant?

The Valorant Night Market is the core monetization feature, offering time-limited items like weapon skins and decorative items that do not affect gameplay balance. Keeping an eye on Night Market updates is crucial since some items are only available for a limited time.

What is the Valorant crosshair?

Valorant offers a highly customizable crosshair system, allowing players to adjust its appearance, including color and shape. Different crosshair settings can greatly impact your aiming experience and accuracy, so finding the right configuration can boost your chances of winning. However, the key to success is still practicing your shooting skills.

Valorant sensitivity conversion:

Some players may be transitioning from CSGO to Valorant. Although the games are similar, experienced FPS players know that sensitivity settings differ across games. Therefore, you can’t rely on identical numerical values. You’ll need a specialized tool to convert CSGO sensitivity to Valorant settings if you want to maintain a consistent feel between the two games.

Does Valorant have seasons?

Yes, Valorant’s seasons are similar to those in Fortnite, differentiated by chapters. Each season brings various adjustments, including game balance changes, map rotations, new maps, and new season passes with rewards. There might even be new agents introduced. You can stay updated on the latest season information by following Valorant’s official website or social media channels, helping you plan your time and resources accordingly.

Wrapping Up

These are the 10 essential things you need to know about the Valorant console version. Of course, for a game as expansive as Valorant, there are many more details to explore. However, by familiarizing yourself with these basics, you’ll be better prepared to dive into the console version when it releases and gain a competitive edge. We hope you enjoy your time in Valorant!