Riot Games unveiled the content of
VALORANT's upcoming
Patch 13.06 on Monday, September 14, with the update set to go live on September 22, 2026, just days before the start of
VALORANT Champions. As already revealed through several leaks over the weekend, the patch will introduce a new experimental game mode, a new weapon, and a revamped agent progression system, as well as several competitive and quality-of-life changes.
Gauntlet: Glitched, a new game mode
Alongside the Warden, the new weapon, the biggest addition in this patch is Gauntlet: Glitched, a mode where sixteen players, split into eight teams of two, face off in a round-robin-style tournament until only one team remains. The concept is simple: each player builds their own hybrid "Robo-Agent" by picking abilities from a random pool, which can then be upgraded throughout the rounds. "Glitches" will regularly alter these abilities in unexpected ways, creating new combinations in every game.
The developers describe the format as a fast-paced alternative to standard matches, with games lasting between 8 and 15 minutes and designed to balance duos of different skill levels. As one of the developers put it in
the presentation video,
"Eight teams of two" will compete in this new format. Gauntlet: Glitched will be available with Patch 13.06, just before the start of Champions.
Warden, Agent Mastery, and more
VALORANT is also introducing the Warden, an automatic rifle joining the Vandal and Phantom in the 2,900-credit tier. With enhanced accuracy, it deals 50 damage at all ranges, 200 with a headshot, and 42 to the legs, with an 18-round magazine and 36 reserve rounds. Its goal is to provide a long-range option without requiring players to commit to a sniper rifle.
The patch also introduces Agent Mastery, replacing the existing Agent Gear system. Players will now progress through Act Levels, which reset each season, and lifetime levels, powered by Mastery Points earned by playing. Rewards include customizable Agent IDs, as well as exclusive portraits, icons, and borders. Rewards already unlocked through the previous Agent Gear system will be kept.
The competitive mode is also receiving several performance tracking and presentation improvements. Starting with the 2027 season, a new Competitive Flex will evolve throughout the year based on ranked results, with upgrades unlocked each Act. Riot has also announced a redesigned home screen and the ability to practice in the Practice Range while searching for a match, while a new Agent is planned for release after Champions.
