In 343 Industries' latest game, Halo Infinite, one hotly debated topic is the recent addition of aim-assist on mouse and keyboard. Aim-assist helps players aim their weapons more accurately, typically by slowing down the player's reticle on or around an enemy player or NPC. While some see aim-assist as necessary for creating a level playing field between console controllers and mouse/keyboard users, others view it as an unfair advantage. With crossplay becoming more prominent in multiplayer titles, it is interesting to explore reasons for and against aim-assist for mouse and keyboard in games like Halo Infinite.
One of the main arguments in favor of aim-assist for mouse and keyboard is that it creates a more level playing field given the feature's use on controllers. In many shooters, players who use controllers often have an advantage due to the usually strong aim-assist provided on console. This is because controllers typically need some aim-assist for players to feel like they have any sort of decent accuracy comparable to pinpoint movements of a mouse. Providing a slight aim-assist for mouse and keyboard players in Halo Infinite may bridge the gap between players, making the game a more fair and competitive experience on the whole. However, not everyone agrees.
Aim-Assist in Halo Infinite Has Proponents and Detractors
One key reason why arguments have been made for aim-assist on mouse and keyboard is that it can make Halo Infinite more accessible for players who may not have the same skill level. For example, aim-assist can be helpful to new players who are still learning the game, or more importantly help players with disabilities who may have difficulty aiming as accurately as able-bodied peers. By providing aim-assist, shooters like Halo Infinite are better able to cater to a broader range of players, making the experience more inclusive.
However, there are also several arguments against aim-assist for mice and keyboard users. One of the main arguments is that it undermines the skill and precision required to play a competitive game at higher levels. Many experienced players enjoy the challenge of aiming accurately without assistance, and view it as a way of separating skilled players from those who still have some training to do. By providing an aim-assist for mouse and keyboard players, theoretically this could dilute the game's skill ceiling and make it less challenging for skilled Halo Infinite players.
Aim-Assist on PC Could Be a Nightmare To Balance
Another argument against aim-assist for mouse and keyboard is that it can lead to imbalances in Halo Infinite. For example, if the aim-assist is too strong, it can give players an unfair advantage regardless of their control setup. On the other hand, if the aim-assist is too weak, it may not effectively bridge the gap between the two control methods. In either case, the use of aim-assist can imbalance the game and impact overall enjoyment.
Ultimately, whether the decision to include aim-assist for mouse and keyboard in Halo Infinite is positively received will depend on the preferences of players. Some may see it as necessary to create a level playing field and make the game more accessible, but others may view it as unfair and unnecessary. Accessibility is certainly important to consider, but regardless of how people feel, it is clear that aim-assist will continue to be a contentious issue in the world of shooters - especially on PC.
Halo Infinite is available now on PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.