The beta test for the console versions of Riot Games’ free-to-play first-person tactical hero shooter, Valorant, may be happening sometime soon.
A new job listing for the position of Associate Console Playtest Analyst for Valorant suggests that the game’s beta test may be happening soon on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.
The listing states that the new recruit will focus on validation testing of upcoming gameplay experiences for Valorant. They will work directly with developers to play in, plan, and evaluate playtests. Additionally, they will manage risk assessments for unreleased content based on playtest data, support defining objectives and finding conclusions from playtests, and manage test plans for future tests and defects uncovered during playtests.
An earlier Valorant datamine had also suggested that the game is headed to consoles. Strings related to console online ecosystems were discovered in the game files. These strings were not primarily used for text that appears in the game, rather for for back-end purposes.
Additionally, multiple prior job listings on hitmarker had suggested that the game will be getting released on consoles. The job listings were for a senior game designer and a game design manager, both in relation to the development of the console versions of Valorant.
The job description for the senior game designer stated that candidates would be required to design, tweak, and optimize the player experience. Their analytical skills, player insight, and creativity would aid in crafting in-game and other game experiences that engage and surprise players. The new recruit would collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and work to innovate and iterate player-focused designs. This was likely in relation to the console-specific versions that will require individual balancing of gameplay.
Meanwhile, candidates for the Game Design Manager position stated that they would to be front and center in defining the direction of Valorant for consoles. They would partner with leads from multiple disciplines to ensure that the game is the best it can be, leaving no conceptual stone unturned. They would apply rigorous critical thinking and a strong dose of imagination to engineer the fun of thrilling in-game and other experiences. Lastly, they would collaborate with multiple interdisciplinary teams to create player-focused designs.
