The latest PlayStation 5 update appears to have blocked players from using a «controller emulator» called the Cronus Zen, and that may well have something to do with the fact that some players have been using it to, shock horror, cheat at games.
First spotted by CharlieIntel (via The Verge), Cronus has posted a notice on its website confirming that since the 24.01-08.60.00 update, the Zen will no longer connect to the PlayStation 5. The company suggests that as the update isn't mandatory, players can simply skip it and the device should continue to work just fine.
However, looking at the update notes there's no mention of any new anti-cheating measures coming into force on the console, which suggests that either the disabling of the device is an (arguably happy) accident, or that Sony isn't keen to mention cheating devices and has simply found a way to disconnect it on the quiet.
And before you think that this is simply a console gaming story, it's worth noting that the Zen, while not officially supported, does work on PC as well, and the company even provides a setup guide to help PC users set it up correctly.
For what it's worth the device does seem to have some legitimate uses, like allowing players to connect a non-supported controller or any mouse and keyboard to a console, although it's the ability to «amplify your game» via the script engine that's caused the most controversy. The Zen allows you to reduce recoil from gunfire, enable aim-assist functions on mouse and keyboard setups, and alter other settings that can be used to give players an in-game advantage, causing something of a backlash.
Best gaming mouse: the top rodents for gaming
Best gaming keyboard: your PC's best friend...
Best gaming headset: don't ignore in-game audio
A search on YouTube reveals a large number of videos discussing the device, from tips on how to use it to angry rants about how it's just not cricket, old chap, although as you can imagine the discussion is sometimes not quite
Read more on pcgamer.com