VALORANT: updates and patch notes, week of 2026-09-14

Catch up on 3 source-checked VALORANT updates, with links to the original announcements.

VALORANT Patch 13.01 targets rank manipulation

In a July 14 announcement, Riot Games said Patch 13.01 strengthens detection of boosting, win-trading, and stream sniping. Confirmed manipulation can lead to rating or reward reversions, with permanent bans possible for repeated severe abuse.

• The patch’s updated detection covers boosting, win-trading, and stream sniping.
• Accounts involved in confirmed disruption may receive penalties, including boosters, boosted accounts, and hitchhikers.
• Players can report suspected boosters through the in-game Rank Manipulation category.

Original announcement (2026-09-05)

VALORANT Patch 13.04 adds Abyss to two queues

Patch 13.04 rotates Abyss into VALORANT’s Competitive and Deathmatch queues while removing Breeze. It also addresses Agent, stability, and transforming-melee animation bugs.

• Abyss joins the Competitive and Deathmatch map pools.
• Breeze leaves the Competitive and Deathmatch map pools.
• A stability fix targets freezes and disconnects caused by repeatedly switching between Clove’s Meddle and Ruse.
• Transforming melee weapons should again transform during inspection after a bug fix.

Original announcement (2026-09-08)

VALORANT 13.05 updates Range bots and ability fixes

Patch 13.05 changes the default bot count in the Range and resolves several ability-related issues. It also announces Agent Gear progression changes for Patch 13.06 on September 22.

• Range Practice Mode now lets players choose 10, 5, or 1 spawned bot; the new default is 5.
• After Patch 13.06, future Agent Gear unlocks will be tied to playtime on the associated Agent, while previously earned gear remains kept.
• The patch fixes smokes continuing to block flashes and other line-of-sight-dependent abilities while dissipating for Astra, Brimstone, Clove, Miks, and Omen.
• Use of detected stream-sniping or instalock tools can bring temporary bans that escalate to permanent bans for repeat use.

Original announcement (2026-09-08)

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