Aim assist only works sometimes

From ChatGG:

What the CPU Handles in Apex Legends

Apex Legends is CPU-intensive.

Hit Registration

• Confirms whether a shot hits or misses based on hitbox alignment, not what’s shown on screen.

Aim Assist Calculations

• Handles reticle slowdown (friction) and magnetism (pull).
• Constantly checks for enemy proximity, line of sight, and context (e.g., smoke, walls).
• Feels weaker or “off” if the CPU is stuttering or overloaded.

Physics Simulation

• Player movement: slide, wall bounce, punch boost, etc.
• Grenade arcs, explosive knockback, and projectile behavior.
• Horizon lift, gravity changes, and object collisions.

AI Entities and Scripting

• Dummies in the Firing Range.
• Wildlife in Storm Point / PvE enemies during events.
• NPC logic for story or event content.

Game Logic and State Management

• Rules like ring behavior, heat shield ticking, down/revive interactions.
• Ability timers, cooldowns, and unique legend mechanics.
• Deathbox behavior and loot spawning.

Networking and Prediction

• Interpolation and lag compensation.
• Tracking enemy and teammate positions and syncing with the server.
• Handles client-side prediction to keep movement smooth.

Entity Updates and World Simulation

• Tracks all players, bullets, deathboxes, projectiles, loot bins, care packages, etc.
• Keeps their states synced and up to date.
• Ring, skybox, and weather transitions (e.g. lightning).

UI Logic and HUD Elements

• Damage numbers, inventory panels, menus, reticle changes, shield swap indicators.
• All non-graphical logic behind what you see on screen.

Audio Processing (Partially CPU-side)

• Directional positioning, occlusion (sound through walls), and ability cues. Especially relevant if running software audio rather than offloaded to a sound card.

TL;DR:

The CPU in Apex isn’t just doing background work — it’s actively running the entire simulation of the game. If your CPU chokes, things like aim assist, hit reg, and movement feel take the hit.