VALORANT recently dropped a new developer update, revealing some new features coming with 13.06. Highlights include a brand-new experimental game mode, a new automatic rifle, a new Agent Mastery system, competitive progression updates, quality-of-life improvements, and more.
Watch the full developer update here, or catch up on the highlights below:
New Game Mode – Gauntlet: Glitched
Gauntlet: Glitched is a new experimental mode where players can create their own hybrid Robo-Agent by drafting from a randomized pool of abilities. Eight teams of two compete in a tournament-style round robin until only one team remains.
Throughout the match, players upgrade the abilities that best fit their playstyle, creating unique builds every game. Unexpected “glitches” can dramatically alter familiar abilities, creating wild combinations and encouraging experimentation.
Gauntlet: Glitched launches in Patch 13.06, just ahead of VALORANT Champions.
New Rifle – Warden
The Warden is a new automatic rifle joining the Vandal and Phantom. Designed with a stronger Aim Down Sights (ADS) option, the Warden offers players more flexibility on buy rounds.
Its high damage output makes it especially effective for holding longer sightlines without fully committing to a sniper rifle. The goal is to expand player choice by offering another viable primary weapon for different playstyles.
New Agent Mastery System
VALORANT will introduce a new system that rewards players for their playtime and performance. Players will progress through a brand-new mastery system tied to both playtime and performance with their favorite Agents, which replaces the existing Agent Gear system.
The update introduces customizable Agent IDs alongside new mastery rewards, including portraits, icons, borders, and other cosmetics that showcase long-term dedication.
Competitive Updates
Competitive progression is receiving several improvements focused on better celebrating player achievement. Players will gain enhanced ways to track their competitive journey and show off their accomplishments.
At the start of 2027, VALORANT will introduce a new Competitive Flex, which evolves throughout the year based on ranked achievements and unlocks additional upgrades each Act. Competitive profile improvements arrive in the next patch, while the new Competitive Rewards begin with the start of the 2027 season.
Additional Updates
Finally, a few minor tweaks coming to the game include an updated home screen with an improved look and feel; the addition of Practice Range to matchmaking queue; and VALORANT console launches in Australia and New Zealand. Plus,fans can look forward to a new Agent to be revealed after Champions!
