Activision Implements Measures Against Console Hardware Cheaters
Activision, the developer behind the popular “Call of Duty” games, has announced that it is taking action against hardware cheaters who use external tools such as mouse and keyboard adapters on consoles to gain an unfair advantage over others. The company has introduced a warning system, which escalates with each offense, and may result in account suspension. Activision’s anti-cheat system, Ricochet, has already been tested for the detection of such hardware tools and is now available for all players.
Mouse and Keyboard Adapters and Cheat Features
To play with a mouse and keyboard on consoles, players require certain adapters that translate the inputs into gamepad inputs. This gives the players greater precision when shooting and aiming, without forgoing assistance features such as aim-vibration. Such adapters often come with additional cheat features, including the ability to automatically compensate for weapon recoil.
Detecting Hardware Tools
The consoles themselves cannot detect the hardware tools, making it difficult for developers to detect cheaters. Anti-cheat tools such as Activision’s Ricochet and Ubisoft’s Mousetrap must recognize the tools on the software side, for example, through unusual user behavior.
Misuse Prohibition
While some people with disabilities use such hardware tools to eke out titles despite their limitations, Activision has explicitly prohibited the “misuse” of the tools. It is not clear if Activision’s measures discriminate against such people.
Ricochet System
Activision has implemented its anti-cheat system, Ricochet, in “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II” and “Call of Duty Warzone 2.0.” The system includes a kernel driver, which automatically shields other players from cheaters or takes the gun away from them.
Combatting Cheaters
Cheating in competitive multiplayer games can spoil the fun for others and harm the community, and preventing it is crucial for the longevity of the game. Other gaming companies, including Riot Games, Electronic Arts, and Ubisoft, have also documented their actions against cheaters.
