Riot Games has released VALORANT Patch 10.00, introducing several key updates aimed at revitalizing the game for the new year. The update features a brand-new agent, significant gameplay adjustments, map rotation changes, and quality-of-life improvements. Here’s an in-depth look at what’s included in this patch.
Meet Tejo: The New Explosives Specialist
The highlight of Patch 10.00 is Tejo, a Colombian Initiator who brings a mix of explosive capabilities and tactical utility to matches. Tejo’s unique abilities add a new layer of strategy to the battlefield:
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Special Delivery: This throwable sticky grenade attaches to surfaces, detonating to concuss enemies within its radius. Players can adjust its trajectory using an alternate firing mode for a single bounce.
Stealth Drone: A deployable drone that tracks enemy positions and emits a revealing pulse, granting vision and tactical control.
Guided Salvo: Tejo targets two locations on the map, launching guided missiles that home in and detonate on impact, dealing substantial damage.
Armageddon (Ultimate): This devastating ability lets players outline a path on the map for a series of explosive waves. The strike’s origin point can be canceled if needed.
Tejo’s abilities emphasize area control and disruption, making him a formidable addition to any team. Players can begin using him on January 8, with a gradual global rollout.
Season 2025 Brings Structural Changes
VALORANT is moving away from its episodic format with the introduction of Season 2025, a year-long structure divided into six acts. This shift aims to provide players with a more predictable and consistent schedule. The season begins with a full rank reset, with a mid-season reset planned for later in the year.
Additionally, a new map rotation system ensures that the map pool changes every act. For Patch 10.00, Fracture and Lotus return to the competitive and Deathmatch queues, while Ascent and Sunset are temporarily removed.
Enhanced Cosmetic Options and Esports Revamp
Cosmetics get a boost with the introduction of the FLEX system, integrated into the newly updated Expressions Wheel. Players can now equip FLEX items, starting with the default FLEX STAT-COM, to personalize their in-game experience.
The Esports Hub has also been revamped for the 2025 VCT season. It offers an enhanced overview of team rosters, standings, and upcoming events, ensuring fans stay connected to the competitive scene. The International League Kickoff begins on January 11, marking an exciting start for esports enthusiasts.
Gameplay Improvements and System Updates
Among the most notable gameplay changes is the introduction of Automatic Remake Voting. If a player is inactive during the first round, a remake vote will automatically initiate, requiring three out of four players to pass. This feature minimizes disruptions caused by AFK players and ensures smoother match outcomes.
Other adjustments include a quicker equip time for Brimstone’s Stim Beacon and refined damage consistency for abilities like Raze’s explosives, Sova’s arrows, and Gekko’s utility. These changes enhance responsiveness and reliability in critical scenarios.
Bug Fixes and Known Issues
Patch 10.00 addresses several gameplay and visual bugs:
- Agent Fixes: Skye’s Guiding Light flash duration and Phoenix’s Blaze effects received visual and functional improvements.
- Gameplay Fixes: Sky Smoke dissipation effects and weapon inconsistencies during Aim Down Sights were resolved.
Some minor issues persist, such as occasional blank Expressions Wheels in custom games with cheats enabled. Riot has assured players that these problems are being actively worked on.
What’s Next for VALORANT?
Patch 10.00 sets the stage for an exciting 2025, with a strong emphasis on refreshing the competitive landscape. From Tejo’s explosive debut to structural changes like map rotations and season format updates, Riot continues to enhance the player experience. As the VCT season kicks off and the new systems settle in, players can anticipate a dynamic and engaging year ahead.