Ever since Valorant started its console beta on June 14, I have been completely hooked on the game. I am not new to Riot Games’ tactical hero shooter, but the console version has reignited my passion for it, thanks to the new feature called Focus Mode.
Putting a tactical first-person shooter like Valorant onto a console is a challenge because it may not feel as accurate as it does on a PC. This is why many competitive players prefer using a mouse and keyboard for better control over movement. However, Focus Mode in Valorant aims to address this issue by providing a solution that enhances aiming on consoles.
So, what exactly is Focus Mode? It replaces the traditional “left trigger to aim down sights” mechanic found in most shooters and assigns the function to the left trigger. When you press the trigger, the sensitivity of the aiming joystick changes, making it more precise. This feature mimics the precise control of a mouse, although not perfectly. It’s a unique addition to a console shooter and works exceptionally well in Valorant.
In Valorant, players are usually advised not to aim down sights and to fire from the hip while on the move for better accuracy. Focus Mode replicates this playstyle effectively. It seamlessly combines the familiarity of PC gaming with the comfort of using a controller, making it easy for both PC and console players to adapt to.
Some players argue that Focus Mode makes the game too casual, especially with the addition of light aim assist on consoles. However, I believe that this accessibility can attract more players to the game and create a larger community. Those who prefer a more competitive experience can stick to playing on PC, as there is no crossplay between console and PC versions.
Valorant’s approach to balancing the needs of both casual and competitive players sets it apart from other games like Overwatch. By offering a more relaxed gaming environment on consoles, it opens up opportunities for new players to join and potentially transition to the PC version for a more serious gaming experience.
If you own a PS5 or Xbox Series X/S, you can sign up for the Valorant console beta to try out Focus Mode for yourself. The beta does not have an end date yet, and the full console release date has not been announced. Overall, Focus Mode is a game-changer for Valorant on consoles, making it an enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels.
