On January 6,
Riot Games kicked off the VALORANT 2026 season with the deployment of Patch 12.00, a major update impacting every core pillar of the game. The introduction of the Bandit, a new 600-credit precision sidearm, is set to disrupt the economy of light rounds by positioning itself as a direct alternative to the Ghost and the Sheriff. In parallel, the matchmaking system is undergoing a significant overhaul of its hidden MMR to ensure better competitive integrity, while high-ranking players (Ascendant+) in Europe must now enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to access the Competitive queue, a decisive measure aimed at curbing account sharing.
In terms of
gameplay and immersion, this update marks the highly anticipated return of Breeze, which has been fully reworked to simplify firing angles and streamline defensive rotations. The Agent roster also sees notable adjustments for Breach, Harbor, and Tejo, designed to amplify their tactical impact. Additionally, players can now experience the "All Random, One Site" limited-time mode, a fast-paced environment where Agents rotate every round on a single objective. Finally, the PC client features a complete redesign of the Home Screen and Social Panel, providing a more modern and intuitive navigation experience for the new competitive year.
2. Fault Line
2. Reckoning
2. Stealth Drone