Kernel mode anticheat software has emerged as a polarizing subject within the gaming community. On one hand, players express concerns about its potential to hinder game performance and compromise system security. On the other hand, there is a strong desire among gamers for effective measures to combat cheating, with kernel-level anticheat solutions often cited as the most robust option available. This presents a classic conundrum for developers and players alike.
Transparency in Anticheat Software
In a bid to address these concerns, Steam has introduced a new feature aimed at enhancing transparency for its users. The platform will now include a dedicated field on game store pages that allows developers to specify the type of anticheat software utilized in their titles. For those employing kernel mode anticheat, this disclosure will be mandatory, providing players with crucial information before making a purchase.
The topic of kernel mode anticheat has not been without its controversies. When it was first implemented in 2020, it sparked significant debate, particularly in relation to titles like Doom Eternal. Activision’s introduction of the Ricochet kernel mode anticheat for the Call of Duty franchise in 2021 attempted to mitigate backlash by assuring players that the software would only activate during gameplay in Warzone. However, this promise yielded mixed results. EA followed suit in 2023, echoing similar assurances.
As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, it is clear that kernel mode anticheat solutions are here to stay. Nevertheless, the new transparency measures on Steam will empower players with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about the games they choose to engage with.
