Riot Games has banned almost 9,000 players from Valorant for underhanded methods in matches (via GameSpot).

Its closed beta has been available for those who have been offered a beta key or snapped one up from “specific Valorant streams.” The Vanguard software, which is mandatory for all Valorant players, attempts to track and identify dishonest gameplay and flag these players up to Riot Games. Some may be unhappy with the use of the kernel driver, but it’s certainly doing the job. It is unclear whether these 8,878 players have been permanently banned or temporarily banned, but it should discourage others from trying to undermine the experience of Valorant for all players.

“Even though this is just closed beta, we’ve promised that we’re going to be heavily committed to anti-cheat,” said the studio. “This banwave is still only the beginning. We’re going to ensure the highest standard of competitive integrity in Valorant.” Though it may look very like Overwatch, the new tactical shooter aspires to deliver unique “precise skill, high stakes, lethal gameplay, and clutch moments that reward creative gameplay styles.” 

Even though this is just closed beta, we’ve promised that we’re going to be heavily committed to anti-cheat. This banwave is still only the beginning. We’re going to ensure the highest standard of competitive integrity in VALORANT. https://t.co/EjxuYG0JEE

— Riot Vanguard (@RiotVanguard) May 12, 2020

Valorant is coming to PC this summer.