As the popularity of gaming continues to rise, it’s no surprise that more and more people are jumping into the world of Valorant. This fast-paced, tactical shooter game developed by Riot Games has quickly gained a massive following since its release in 2020. If you’re new to the game or looking to improve your skills, this beginner’s guide will give you an overview of what to expect and how to get started.
Also read: Valorant Tracker: The Ultimate Tool for Tracking Your Progress.
Introduction to Valorant
What is Valorant?
Valorant is a team-based first-person shooter game (https://playvalorant.com) that combines elements of strategy and skill. Players are divided into two teams, attackers and defenders, and compete against each other in a series of rounds. The goal is to either eliminate the other team or plant a bomb and defend it until it detonates.
The game features a wide variety of characters, known as agents, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. Players must choose an agent to play as at the beginning of each round, and work together with their team to outsmart and outgun the enemy.
How to get started with Valorant
Before you can jump into a game of Valorant, you’ll need to download and install the game client. Once you’ve done that, you’ll need to create an account with Riot Games or log in with an existing one. From there, you can select the “Play” button to access the game’s main menu.
The menu allows you to access a variety of game modes, including the standard Competitive mode, where you’ll be matched up against players of similar skill levels, and Unrated mode, which allows you to practice and experiment without affecting your ranking. You can also create custom games with your friends or join public games through the matchmaking system.
Also read: How to change your name in VALORANT?
Understanding the game modes in Valorant
Standard Competitive mode
The standard Competitive mode is where most players will spend the majority of their time in Valorant. In this mode, players compete in a best-of-24-rounds match, with the first team to win 13 rounds declared the winner.
Each round begins with a buy phase, during which players can purchase weapons, armor, and abilities using credits earned from previous rounds. Once the buy phase is over, the round begins, and players must work together to outmaneuver and outgun the other team.
Unrated mode
Unrated mode is similar to Competitive mode but without the pressure of ranking or affecting your overall win-loss record. This mode is ideal for players who are just starting out or learning a new agent.
Spike Rush mode
Spike Rush mode is a faster-paced version of the standard Competitive mode, where each round is designed to be completed quickly. Players start with a random set of weapons and abilities, and the match is played on a smaller map.
Choosing your agent in Valorant
One of the most critical decisions you’ll make in Valorant is choosing which agent to play as. Each agent has unique abilities that can be used to gain an advantage over the other team. Some agents are better suited for defensive play, while others excel at attacking.
Before choosing your agent, it’s essential to consider your playstyle and how you like to approach the game. If you prefer a more aggressive playstyle, you may want to choose an agent with abilities that allow for quick movement and surprise attacks. If you prefer a more defensive playstyle, you may want to choose an agent with abilities that allow for area denial and crowd control.
Valorant weapons and their uses
In Valorant, weapons play a crucial role in determining the outcome of a match. Each weapon has its own unique stats and recoil patterns, which can impact how effective it is in combat. Some weapons are better suited for long-range engagements, while others excel in close-quarters combat.
It’s essential to understand the different weapons in Valorant and how to use them effectively. For example, the Vandal is a powerful assault rifle that can kill with a single headshot but has significant recoil. The Phantom is another assault rifle that is better suited for close-quarters combat due to its lower recoil and higher rate of fire.
Tips and tricks for playing Valorant
Communication is key
One of the most crucial aspects of playing Valorant is communication. It’s essential to work together with your team and coordinate your attacks and defenses. Make sure to communicate your plans and any enemy movements or sightings.
Practice your aim
In Valorant, accuracy is everything. Make sure to spend time practicing your aim in the game’s training mode or through custom games. You can also adjust your mouse sensitivity and crosshair settings to find what works best for you.
Play to your strengths
Each player has their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Make sure to play to your strengths and focus on the areas where you excel. If you’re a strong sniper, for example, focus on holding down long sightlines and taking out enemies from a distance.
Valorant strategies for winning matches
Map control
One of the most critical elements of winning a game of Valorant is controlling the map. Make sure to work with your team to secure key areas of the map and deny the enemy access. This can mean holding down chokepoints or flanking the enemy from unexpected angles.
Use your abilities effectively
Each agent in Valorant has unique abilities that can be used to gain an advantage over the other team. Make sure to use your abilities effectively and at the right time. For example, a well-placed smoke grenade can obscure the enemy’s vision and allow your team to move in for the kill.
Adapt to the enemy’s playstyle
Finally, it’s essential to adapt to the enemy’s playstyle. If the enemy team is playing aggressively, for example, you may need to adjust your strategy and play more defensively. Keep an eye on the enemy’s movements and adjust your play accordingly.
Valorant esports scene
Valorant has quickly become one of the most popular esports games in the world, with a thriving competitive scene. If you’re interested in watching or participating in Valorant esports, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. Riot Games regularly hosts official tournaments and events, while third-party organizers also host their own competitions.
Conclusion
Valorant is an exciting and challenging game that requires a mix of strategy, skill, and teamwork to succeed. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, there’s always more to learn about the game. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a top Valorant player.