VALORANT

VALORANT is Riot Games’ free-to-play 5v5 tactical shooter — teams attack or defend Spike sites through precise gunplay and Agent abilities. It launched on Windows PC on June 2, 2020 and on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S on August 2, 2024. Patch 13.01 is current as of July 14, 2026.

Latest update

Patch 13.01 is live from July 14, 2026. Riot Games’ patch notes make Iso’s weapon re-equip after Double Tap instant, extend Yoru’s Gatecrash beacon to 20 seconds, add recoil and spread to the Outlaw’s second shot, and begin penalties for confirmed rank manipulation.

Season 26 Act IV remains active with the Summit map and Retake mode introduced in Patch 13.00; Riot Games also rolled the PC Discord party integration out globally on July 21.

Release date and status

Riot Games launched VALORANT for Windows PC on June 2, 2020. The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S editions released on August 2, 2024, and all three versions remain active as a continuously updated live service.

Platforms and availability

The released client covers Windows PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Riot Games distributes the PC build through the Riot Client, while Sony and Microsoft carry the console editions through their platform stores.

A Riot Account supports cross-progression and cross-inventory across the listed platforms. Riot Games’ current platform selector does not list macOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One or Nintendo Switch for the standard client.

Gameplay overview

Two teams of five alternate between attack and defense across round-based maps. Attackers try to plant and protect the Spike, defenders stop the plant or defuse it, and a one-life economy makes weapon purchases, saved equipment, information and positioning matter from round to round.

Each Agent belongs to the Duelist, Controller, Sentinel or Initiator role and carries a distinct ability kit. Competitive, Unrated, Swiftplay, Deathmatch, Spike Rush, Premier and rotating modes apply the same foundation at different match lengths and stakes.

Story, setting, or main mode

VALORANT has no story campaign; its main mode is the 5v5 Spike format. Teams play first to 13 round wins in standard matches, switching sides halfway through while adapting Agent composition, economy and site plans to the opposing team.

Trailer, screenshots, and media

The Episode 1: IGNITION gameplay trailer and PlayStation Store gallery show Agent abilities layered over precise firearm combat, coordinated site attacks, defensive holds and map rotations.

Developer and publisher

Riot Games develops and publishes VALORANT. The company maintains the PC and console builds, competitive systems, seasonal acts, esports ecosystem and the Vanguard anti-cheat platform.

Download and availability

VALORANT is free to download, requires online play and sells optional cosmetics and VALORANT Points. PC players use Riot Games’ official client, while console players obtain the game from PlayStation Store or Microsoft Store.

System / Device Requirements

Riot Games publishes explicit 30 fps and 60 fps Windows targets. The console editions are built specifically for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S rather than previous-generation systems.

Ratings & Comments