Riot Games has outlined a sweeping 2026 season update for Valorant, detailing changes to competitive systems, new gameplay content, and additions to the game’s esport structure. The roadmap centers on refining matchmaking fairness and introducing tactical tools intended to have a visible impact on moment-to-moment play.

The studio said it is overhauling its hidden MMR calculations in an effort to better align player skill with match outcomes and reduce uneven pairings. A new, annually renewed “Community Commitment” agreement and expanded enforcement standards will accompany the redesign, along with a “Behavior Standing” profile that allows players to review their disciplinary status and potential penalties. Riot also plans to preview an early version of a Replay feature in custom games beginning with Patch 12.00.

All-Random Showdown Mode Added for Random Agents

On the content side, the update introduces Bandit, a sidearm positioned between the Ghost and Sheriff that is designed to broaden eco-round decision-making. The pistol offers higher stopping power against lightly armored opponents, which Riot says may shift how teams approach low-economy scenarios.

Map updates headline the environmental changes. Breeze returns to competitive play following a large-scale rework that narrows spaces and simplifies engagement angles to increase encounter density and strengthen Controller utility. Rank loss on the map will be reduced for the first two weeks after its reintroduction to ease the transition. Haven and Corrode also receive tuning, including adjustments to wall penetration behavior aimed at improving combat predictability.

A limited-time arcade mode, All-Random Showdown (AR1S: All Random, One Site), will join the playlist. Each round assigns players a random agent and confines play to a single site, creating faster-paced, high-variance rounds that differ from standard competitive formats.

Riot is also expanding cosmetic offerings with the Ayakashi skin collection, a set inspired by Japanese folklore that includes a Phantom, Ghost and Kogitsune dual-blade melee weapon. The collection debuts alongside a new season cinematic.

The company says the in-game updates align with developments in the Valorant Champions Tour. The 2026 VCT Pacific Kickoff, set for Jan. 22, will adopt a triple-elimination format for the first time, with Championship Points fueling early-season standings. Busan is slated to host part of the Stage 2 Playoffs alongside Madrid, Chengdu and São Paulo.