The Role of VPNs In Online Gaming: Benefits, Risks, And Best Practices

In the dynamic world of online gaming, players continually seek ways to enhance their experience and access a broader range of content. Players connecting from different parts of the world use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to bypass issues like internet throttling, DDoS attacks and geo-restrictions. However, utilizing a VPN for online gaming presents a unique set of advantages and challenges. 

Some gaming platforms consider it as cheating. This article delves into the circumstances under which using a VPN for gaming is beneficial, the potential drawbacks, the risk of account bans,  and the stance of various gaming platforms on VPN usage. We’ll also look at gaming platforms that restrict VPNs and provide guidance on using a VPN safely while gaming.  

When Does It Make Sense To Use A VPN For Gaming?

Utilizing a VPN in the gaming sphere can be advantageous in specific scenarios:

1. Accessing Geo-Restricted Content

Some games or in-game content are released exclusively in certain regions. A VPN allows players to connect to servers in these areas.  It gives you access to region-locked games, beta releases, or exclusive in-game content.  

2. Playing On Different Regional Servers

Gamers may wish to play with friends or compete in regions outside their own. A VPN enables connection to servers in various locations, facilitating cross-region play. A VPN lets you connect to different locations and access international servers.  

3. Protection Against DDoS Attacks

Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks can disrupt gameplay by overwhelming a player’s connection in competitive gaming. VPNs can mask the player’s IP address, making it more difficult for malicious entities to target them directly. A VPN masks your IP address, making it harder for attackers to target you.  

4. Bypassing ISP Throttling

Internet Service Providers (ISPs) sometimes slow gaming traffic to reduce bandwidth usage. This can lead to lag and slow connection speeds. A VPN hides your gaming activity from your ISP, preventing throttling and improving performance.  

Can A Gamer Get Banned For Using A VPN? 

The possibility of account bans due to VPN usage varies across gaming platforms and titles:

1. Suspicious Activity Flags

Frequent changes in IP addresses or logging in from geographically distant locations within short time frames can trigger security alerts. This may result in temporary account locks or further investigation. Some games also have regional restrictions, and VPN use may lead to penalties. 

2. Policy Violations & National Laws

Some games explicitly prohibit VPN usage in their terms of service. Utilizing a VPN in such cases can lead to warnings, suspensions, or permanent bans. Moreover, due to the strict regulations against VPN usage in some countries, it can even cross legal boundaries and be considered fraudulent. 

If a gamer from a particular country uses a VPN to access prohibited games or in-game content, utilizing a VPN can become subject to legal repercussions. For example, if sports betting is considered illegal in a gamer’s country, his attempts to access websites like Betlabel  may cross local legal laws. 

Gaming Platforms Restricting The Use Of VPNs

Several gaming platforms and services have strict policies regarding VPN usage:

1. Blizzard Entertainment

Games like Overwatch have mechanisms to detect irregular login locations. Consistent VPN usage can trigger security measures, potentially leading to account locks or bans. 

2. Steam

Valve’s platform discourages using VPNs, especially for purchasing games at regional prices that are not intended for the user’s location. Such actions can lead to account restrictions.

3. Sony’s PlayStation Network And Microsoft’s Xbox Live

Both platforms monitor for suspicious activities. Using a VPN to access region-locked content can result in penalties, including account suspension.

4. Epic Games

While not explicitly banning VPN usage, accessing content or features unavailable in a player’s region through a VPN can violate their terms of service.

How To Use A VPN For Gaming Safely

If you decide to use a VPN while gaming, follow these best practices to avoid issues:  

1. Choose A High-Speed VPN

Look for a gaming-friendly VPN with low latency and fast servers.  

2. Connect To Nearby Servers

Selecting a VPN server close to your actual location minimizes ping.  

3. Avoid Free VPNs

Free VPNs often have slow speeds, weak security, and unreliable connections.  

4. Check The Game’s Terms of Service

Make sure using a VPN doesn’t violate game policies.  

5. Disable VPN When Making Purchases

Avoid VPN use when buying games or in-game content to prevent bans.  

Final Thoughts

VPNs can enhance gaming by improving security, bypassing geo-restrictions, and preventing ISP throttling. However, they also come with risks, including higher latency, account bans, and potential violations of platform policies. Before using a VPN for gaming, weigh the pros and cons carefully. If you choose to use one, follow best practices to minimize risks.