Gamers who enjoy Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 on handheld devices like the ASUS ROG Ally or Steam Deck should be aware of the potential risks of being shadowbanned. This article aims to provide crucial information and tips to avoid this frustrating consequence.
Understanding Shadowbanning in Modern Warfare 3
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The Ricochet Anti-Cheat System
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 employs a proprietary anti-cheat system called Ricochet, designed to identify and penalize players using third-party tools, such as auto-aim hacks and similar cheats. However, this system can sometimes mistakenly target innocent players, especially those using certain features on handheld gaming PCs.
The Issue with Handheld Gaming PCs
Devices like the ASUS ROG Ally and Steam Deck, popular among handheld gaming enthusiasts, come equipped with various overlays and tools to enhance the gaming experience. Unfortunately, some of these features, particularly TDP-switching capabilities, can inadvertently trigger Ricochet's security protocols, leading to shadowbans.
The Impact of Shadowbanning
Experiencing a Shadowban
Players who are shadowbanned can still play the game, but they are segregated into a separate pool with other banned players, significantly diminishing the quality of the gaming experience. The duration of a shadowban can range from a few days to permanent, depending on the perceived offense.