It is either “one for all” or “none for all”, according to Overwatch game director Jeff Kaplan. On the Battle.net forums, a user by the name of lepistole began a thread titled “Mouse and Keyboard Players on Console”. They addressed Blizzard with their message asking what the team’s thoughts were on the matter. Are they in favor of Overwatch console players utilizing the keyboard and mouse?

Having played many hours on console (over 1000 hours) it is evident that the majority of high level players are using mouse and keyboard for console. I know this as I have discussed this with many of these players. I believe this is unfair, however, I wish to ask your official stance on the matter,” wrote lepistole.

It’s a controversial subject. Some players believe it is a topic of cheating, others think these players simply need to “get better”. Rather, it is an issue of responsibility and whether or not Blizzard can actually do anything about it. Is it cause for concern? Does it detract from the enjoyment of others who want to have an even playing field?

The Overwatch team objects to the use of mouse and keyboard on console. We have contacted both first-party console manufacturers and expressed our concern about the use of mouse and keyboard and input conversion devices,” Kaplan replied.

The game director continued, suggesting that this may have been a problem on their mind for some time now. The Overwatch team have lobbied and implored first-party console manufacturers to address this, as well. “We have lobbied and will continue to lobby for first-party console manufacturers to either: Disallow mouse and keyboard and input conversion devices OR openly and easily support mouse and keyboard for ALL players,” Kaplan wrote.

Of course, neither PlayStation 4 nor Xbox One support the use of keyboard and mouse. In order to utilize them, players must purchase a converter from third-party businesses. However, if these manufacturers are the problem, it would be very difficult to stop if the demand is there. Unless, that is, there was a feature within the console to cease the function of an external add-on.

To the Overwatch console players out there – what do you think of this dilemma? Do you believe it’s fair to prohibit the use of keyboard and mouse? Feel free to let us know in the comments section below. We would love to hear from you! Don’t forget to follow Don’t Feed the Gamers on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on the latest gaming news!