In the world of team-based multiplayer shooters, there are two types of games that offer drastically different experiences. On one side is the FPS designed to provide fast-paced action that anyone of just about any skill level can jump into. Call of Duty and Battlefield are strong examples of this, as franchises that possess a low barrier for entry, while also having a high skill ceiling. On the other side is highly tactical shooters that stress methodical movement and constant cooperation. Many shooters have joined the latter category over the years, with one of the more prominent in recent years being Valorant.
Valorant combines some of the best parts of recent FPS games to create something all its own. With tactical gameplay similar to CS:GO and a roster of distinct characters akin to Overwatch, developer Riot Games has given gamers an experience that emphasizes both substance and style. Despite its similarities to other properties, Valorant has developed a personality all its own. Much of that is due to the game's community, which has faithfully followed and adapted to each of Valorant's updates. Through these changes, the Valorant community has established a series of unwritten rules that guide each match.
Respect Knife Battles in Valorant
The vast majority of Valorant's gameplay centers around precise gunplay and flawless execution of Agent abilities -- unless any number of players are engaged in a knife battle. A knife battle occurs for a few reasons in Valorant, whether it's a one-on-one encounter or a lone player calling for a knife battle against the whole enemy team in the middle of the map. Whatever the circumstances, proper knife battle etiquette entails that any players directly participating in a knife battle shouldn't resort to using any guns, and any players watching a knife battle should not interfere by using their guns.
Ace Etiquette in Valorant
Valorant's primary game modes pit teams of five against one another in a structure similar to CS:GO. Players only get one life per round, making quick reflexes and decision-making essential. In some rounds, a player will be performing at such a high level that they have a chance to "ace", or eliminate all five players on the enemy team. If a win is inevitable for a player's team and another player just needs one more kill for the ace, it's proper etiquette to avoid getting the last kill and spoiling that special accomplishment. Exceptions can be made in tight situations, but if a safe ace is in line, it's best not to ruin it.
Don't Use New Valorant Agents in Ranked
Valorant has a long list of playable Agents for players to choose from, with many of them needing to be unlocked through gameplay. When a new agent is unlocked, some players may feel enticed to jump right into a ranked match with them, but this is typically a recipe for disaster.
Each of Valorant's Agents, from Sentinels like Killjoy to Duelists like Jett, can take a significant amount of time to learn. If a player doesn't know how to fully take advantage of an Agent's kit, and decides to go into a ranked match, that inexperience could put the rest of the team at a disadvantage. To prevent this, it's recommended Valorant players spend time in unranked play practicing new Agents before they hop into ranked.
Valorant can sometimes feel like a daunting game to get into for new players, due in part to its many unwritten rules and etiquette. There's many more than what's been listed above, but if players new and old stick to these unwritten rules as much as possible, then matches should flow nicely. Valorant can take hours of practice to really get a handle of. With enough practice and guidance, however, any gamer can jump into the lore-heavy shooter Valorant and use their favorite Agents with confidence.
Valorant is available now on PC.