Automated archive / VALORANT
VALORANT: updates and patch notes, week of 2026-09-14
Catch up on 3 source-checked VALORANT updates, with links to the original announcements.
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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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