What is Valorant: The basics

There are a couple of major reasons why there is so much hype around Valorant. Firstly, it will be the first big release from publisher Riot Games outside of League of Legends. Previously announced under the codename “Project A”, the game has been in development for a very long time.

Secondly, it will be free-to-play. This is why people are speculating that this will be the blockbuster to rival the most popular titles in the world. It seems like their will be a lot of emphasis placed onto the competitive modes, and with Riot having such a strong reputation for maintaining balance, this will set them up for success in years to come.

So how will it work?

Valorant is a team-based tactical shooter, featuring a selection of heroes or ‘Agents’. It has a clear Counter-Strike vibe, with perhaps a bit of Overwatch and Rainbow Six Siege sprinkled on top.

At the beginning of a match, players will choose from a selection of Agents with various special abilities. This decision is important as they will then remain as this character for the entire duration of the game.

Like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, the 2 teams of 5will then take it in turns to attack and defend a selection of bomb sites. The attackers must plant what is known as the ‘Spike’, whilst the defenders try to take them out or defuse the Spike if planted. Similarly to other Search and Destroy style modes, players will only have one life per round. The action will take place over 25 rounds, with the first to win 13 taking the match.

The choice of Agents and use of their unique abilities will no doubt be the most crucial element to success in Valorant. It will be exciting to see how different metas evolve over time, as players push the limits of what is possible.