Summary
Riot Games is ramping up their efforts to combat toxicity withinValorant, rolling out new policies and methods for dealing with the game’s most unsavory players. The massively popular shooter from theLeague of Legendsdeveloper has stood as one of the biggest competitive titles in gaming since its original launch in 2020.Valorantboasts a robust esports scene, with a total playerbase of tens of millions of players and last year’s “Valorant Champions” tournament featuring a prize pool of greater than $2 million. However, the game also sports a particular issue that Riot is looking to address.
Player toxicity has been a longstanding issue for many competitive online games, one that isn’t exclusive toValorant. Games likeHelldivers 2andLeague of Legendshave often dealt with toxic players as a major issue hampering the game’s online scene, especially as a game grows in popularity.Valoranteven previously confirmed that Riot Games would be recording in-game voice chats, in an effort to combat toxicity in the shooter. Now, Riot Games is stepping up to address the growing toxicity inValorant.
A new update shared throughValorant’s social media channels details Riot Games' renewed efforts to combat in-game toxicity. According to the post, Riot is planning to “finalize updates” to its existing policies within the next month in order to better execute on more severe penalties. The developer will be offering more manual reviews for in-game toxicity, along with expanding the previously mentioned voice chat monitoring. Riot also introduced somenew features inValorant’s systemsin the 8.10 update, including feedback for other players in a penalized user’s match and improved text filtering.
Riot Games Increasing Anti-Toxicity Measures in Valorant
Valorant’s campaign against in-game toxicity comes as the competitive shooter remains one of the most popular online games. A report from earlier this month revealed thatValorantsits within the top 10 highest-grossing games across both consoles and PC, alongside smash hits likeFortniteandPalworld. Other popular games like the previously-mentionedHelldivers 2have also addressed increased toxicity, with Arrowhead Studios encouraging self-moderation and open communication from fans.
Valorant’s 8.10 patch arrived as the game approaches the launch of its ninth competitive season.Valorant’s “Episode 9” is currently expected to launch in late June, with no confirmation on whether the seasonal update will introduce a new Agent or map to the game. The launch ofValorant’s Version 8.5 in March brought the newest playable Agent to the shooter’s roster, withthe introduction of new Controller Clove. An increased focus on anti-toxicity measures looks to makeValoranta safer and more enjoyable place for all of its players.
Valorant
WHERE TO PLAY
VALORANT is a character-based 5v5 tactical shooter set on the global stage. Outwit, outplay, and outshine your competition with tactical abilities, precise gunplay, and adaptive teamwork.DEFY THE LIMITSBlend your style and experience on a global, competitive stage. You have 13 rounds to attack and defend your side using sharp gunplay and tactical abilities. And, with one life per-round, you’ll need to think faster than your opponent if you want to survive. Take on foes across Competitive and Unranked modes as well as Deathmatch and Spike Rush.CREATIVITY IS YOUR GREATEST WEAPONMore than guns and bullets, you’ll choose an Agent armed with adaptive, swift, and lethal abilities that create opportunities to let your gunplay shine. No two Agents play alike, just as no two highlight reels will look the same.FIGHT AROUND THE WORLDEach map is a playground to showcase your creative thinking. Purpose-built for team strategies, spectacular plays, and clutch moments. Make the play others will imitate for years to come.
