Riot Games steps into new territory by extending its hit title Valorant to PS5 And Xbox consoles. Interested players can now sign up for the beta, initially available in select regions like the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Europe, and Japan, with global expansion on the horizon.
When and Where to Plant Spike in Valorant: Advanced Gameplay Guide to Rank You UpScreenshot from Twitter post of @pwneiride
Unveiling Console Journey of Valorant
Riot's popular tactical shooter Valorant, previously exclusive to PC, is expanding its horizons with the introduction of console versions. The developer has unveiled details about the upcoming console beta, set to launch on June 14 for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.
Registration is open for interested players. The beta will initially be limited to select regions, including the US, UK, Canada, Europe, and Japan, with plans for a wider global rollout afterward.
While Riot promises a tailored gaming experience for consoles, crossplay between console and PC won't be available for competitive integrity. However, players can enjoy cross-progression, allowing skins and progress to transfer seamlessly between PC and console platforms.
As for a full launch date, Riot has not announced any specifics. Arnar Hrafn Gylfason, the production director, emphasized the importance of ensuring that Valorant's core competitive gameplay feels natural on a controller.
He said they were prepared to abandon the endeavor if they could not achieve this. Gylfason believed they had succeeded but acknowledged that it is ultimately up to the players to decide.
In 2021, Riot announced plans for a mobile version of Valorant, but updates have been scarce since then. The upcoming console port will enter a highly competitive landscape of online shooters, challenging established titles like Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Overwatch 2, as well as forthcoming releases such as Marvel Rivals and Sony's Concord.
Riot took a similar step earlier this year with League of Legends, introducing a mobile version called Wild Rift. Additionally, major shooters like PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile have found immense success on smartphones. An Apex Legends mobile version is also being developed.
Riot Games' ambitions for Valorant extend far beyond consoles and mobile devices. Although concrete details are scarce, the developer has hinted at expansive plans to enhance the franchise's global presence.
That suggests a strategic move to capitalize on Valorant's success and introduce it to a broader audience. This expansion strategy, which draws parallels with Riot's highly successful approach to League of Legends, reflects a multifaceted approach to franchise development.
League of Legends has not only dominated the gaming landscape but has also ventured into diverse forms of media, including comic books, digital card games, and even an upcoming animated series on Netflix.
This track record suggests that Riot aims to leverage Valorant's popularity in a similar manner, exploring various avenues to engage with fans across different platforms and mediums.
