PlayStation 5 update blocks use of controversial accessory

PlayStation is taking no prisoners with its latest update, designed to combat the use of a particular controversial accessory that has been described as giving players unfair advantages when used.

Multiplayer fans will undoubtedly know which accessory we’re referring to, but for the solo gamers out there, allow us to explain: we’re talking about Cronus Zen. This piece of kit has been used for some time in Call of Duty and similar multiplayer games, mainly because it allows players to modify their controller experience.

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By using aim assist and recoil reduction, Cronus Zen users have been breezing through challenges that other players have struggled with, thus earning those who use Cronus Zen the title of “cheaters”.

Thanks to the PlayStation’s 24.01-08.60.00 firmware update, Cronus Zen users are discovering they’re modified controllers are being disconnected. As you’d expect, gamers utilising this bit of tech aren’t happy to find themselves suddenly at the same disadvantage as everyone else.

In response, Cronus released a statement telling its users not to update their consoles until a resolution has been found. “We're aware of an issue with Zen and the PS5. As of January 24, the console is prompting everyone to update to Version: 24.01-08.60.00, and if you do, Zen will no longer connect to the PS5 without disconnecting,” the statement begins.

“However, this update is not mandatory. Simply skip it and everything should still work with the Zen 2.2.2 update as expected. There is currently no timetable on a fix so please don't be offended if you're directed to check this notice when asking for any kind of estimated time of arrival. It could be 24 hours, 24 days, 24 months, we won't know until we've dug into it.”

Despite Sony not mentioning Cronus Zen in its PS patch notes, it seems unlikely that this block is a happy coincidence. And even if it is all just a fluke part of the update, we doubt Sony will be in a rush to rectify it given all the controversy dogging the Cronus Zen.

If you don’t want to run into this hurdle, the only way to avoid it is to not update your console. However, not updating your console isn’t exactly ideal, so do so at your own risk.