The latest Valorant patch is here – everything you need to know, all in one place!
Riot Games kicks off the 2026 season with one of the most extensive updates in recent months. Patch 12.00 brings not only major balance changes but also long-awaited features, including a replay system, a fully overhauled map, and a brand-new weapon. For many players, this update marks a clear fresh start after a period of smaller adjustments.
Replays And Improved Matchmaking
The highlight of the update is the new replay system. From now on, both custom Swiftplay matches and standard games can be recorded. Group leaders can enable replays in the lobby – a major advantage for teams, coaches, and competitive players looking to analyze their strategies.
At the same time, the hidden MMR system has been adjusted. The goal is to improve match quality and make unbalanced lobbies less frequent. Players, especially in higher ranks, should now experience more consistent matches.
In Europe, two-factor authentication (2FA) is now mandatory for shared accounts and players at Ascendant rank and above. This adds extra security to the competitive mode.
Agent Updates With Significant Meta Impact
Patch 12.00 brings targeted adjustments for several agents:
- Breach: Faster initiations – Flashpoint projectiles are quicker, and Fault Line is wider
- Harbor: Enemies are slowed more, and Storm Surge affects them even without direct line of sight
- Sage: Improved targeting with Healing Orb reduces interrupted heals in hectic situations
- Tejo: Special Delivery now deals extra damage, and Stealth Drone provides clearer reveals
- Vyse: Steel Garden covers larger areas, making site control more reliable
Breeze Returns – More Compact And Faster
Breeze has been fully overhauled. The map is now more compact, open areas have been reduced, and rotations for defenders are quicker. To help players adjust, Ranked losses on Breeze are reduced by 50% during the first two weeks after the patch.
Haven and Corrode have also received targeted updates. New destructible elements and adjusted wall materials aim to prevent risky wallbangs and create a more balanced gameplay experience.
New Limited-Time Mode: All Random, One Site
The limited-time mode “All Random, One Site” introduces pure chaos. Each round, teams are assigned random agents, the battle area is restricted to a single site, and abilities recharge automatically. Ultimate orbs are scattered across the map, requiring players to adapt quickly to changing situations.
Stricter Measures Against Toxic Behavior
Riot is tightening its policies against bad behavior. Players will now see more clearly when penalties are active or pending. The Community Code must be confirmed annually, and chat or Riot ID violations will be enforced faster and more consistently.
New Bandit Pistol
The arsenal grows with the new Bandit pistol. Costing 600 credits, it offers medium wall penetration, eight rounds per magazine, and can take out an opponent with a headshot. Positioned between the Ghost and Sheriff, it provides new tactical options, especially in eco rounds.
Redesigned PC Client
The update also brings a redesign of the PC client. The home screen, lobby, and social menu have been modernized and made more user-friendly.
Patch 12.00 breathes new life into VALORANT. Replays, the return of Breeze, new weapons, and improved tools for fairness and communication deliver a more stable and versatile experience. The 2026 season kicks off at a high level – a clear new chapter for both players and developers.
What do you think of all these changes? Let us know in the comments!