Riot Games has officially unveiled the massive 13.06 update for VALORANT, scheduled for release on September 22, 2026, just ahead of the VALORANT Champions tournament. The patch will bring an experimental game mode, a new assault rifle, an updated Agent progression system, and a series of improvements to the game.
The main addition of the patch will be the experimental Gauntlet: Glitched mode. This is a fast-paced, round-robin style tournament where 16 players, split into eight teams of two, compete against each other. Each participant creates their own hybrid "Robo-Agent" by selecting abilities from a random pool, with the option to upgrade them later. Regular in-game "glitches" will unexpectedly alter these skills, creating unique combinations in every match. Games will last between 8 and 15 minutes, and the format itself is designed to balance duos of varying skill levels.
The game's arsenal will be expanded with the new Warden automatic rifle, costing 2,900 credits, joining the ranks of the Vandal and Phantom. The weapon was created as a highly accurate alternative for long-range combat without the need to purchase sniper rifles. The Warden features an 18-round magazine (36 in reserve) and deals consistent damage at any range: 200 to the head, 50 to the body, and 42 to the legs.
Progression will also undergo significant changes thanks to the new Agent Mastery system, which will replace the existing Agent Gear. Players will earn Mastery Points, advancing through lifetime levels and Act levels that reset every season. Rewards include customized Agent IDs, exclusive portraits, icons, and borders, while all rewards unlocked in the previous system will be fully retained.
Improvements will also touch upon the competitive aspect and overall quality of life. Starting with the 2027 season, an updated Competitive Flex system will be introduced, evolving throughout the year based on ranked results and unlocking rewards in each Act. Additionally, the developers have redesigned the home screen and added the ability to warm up in the Practice Range while searching for a match. The release of the next new Agent is scheduled for after the conclusion of the Champions tournament.
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