Overwatch features crossplay that allows console and PC users to play Quick Play and custom matches together. However, competitive play is platform-specific. This division has not deterred some players from attempting to gain an unfair advantage using XIM adapters.
For years, console Overwatch players have encountered opponents using XIM mouse and keyboard adapters, enabling them to exploit aim assist features designed for controller users. Game Producer Jared Neuss recently shared that Overwatch 2 developers have devised a plan to combat this problem.
XIM adapters have posed challenges in various console games, as they deceive the game into recognizing the input as coming from a controller, thereby retaining aim assist benefits. Some titles have implemented methods to detect mouse and keyboard adapters, and Overwatch 2 is set to follow suit.
Responding to a player's inquiry on Twitter about addressing mouse and keyboard users on consoles, particularly in the Grand Master tier, Neuss confirmed that they are actively working on XIM detection to prevent this issue.
While he did not specify when this feature would be implemented, it brings hope to those frustrated by facing opponents with pinpoint accuracy achieved through mouse input.
This announcement comes after Overwatch 2 recently took significant action against cheaters by banning over 250,000 accounts. It remains to be seen whether players detected using XIM adapters will face automatic bans or simply be prevented from queuing on consoles.
