

Valorant Patch 10.01
VALORANT, a dominant force in the realm of first-person shooters, continues to evolve with its latest update, Patch 10.01. This update introduces the innovative Ranked Shield feature, designed to safeguard players from rank demotion after an underwhelming performance. Such changes underscore the game's commitment to enhancing player experience and maintaining fair competition.
The introduction of the Ranked Shield represents a significant shift in the competitive dynamics of VALORANT. It underscores Riot Games‘ dedication to refining gameplay mechanics that better support players throughout their progression. As the community embarks on exploring these updates, the game's evolving nature promises fresh and engaging challenges.
How Ranked Shields Function in VALORANT
In VALORANT's competitive mode, players can benefit from the Ranked Shield system. This feature is designed to prevent rank demotion and is only available in the first tier of any rank, such as Silver I, Gold I, or Platinum I. Players receive two shields to start.
If a player loses a match while at 0 Rank Rating (RR), one shield is used. Losing another game at 0 RR will consume the second shield. Once both shields are gone, a further loss at 0 RR results in rank demotion.
It's important to note that these shields are exclusive to the first tier of each rank. For example, moving from Gold I to Gold II means the shields are no longer applicable.
Additional Details in the VALORANT 10.01 Patch Notes
The latest update, VALORANT patch 10.01, focuses on addressing numerous bugs across different gameplay elements and platforms. Tejo saw substantial corrections, refining gameplay and fixing issues that players may have faced:
- Players re-entering Armageddon's blast zone after exiting now rightfully appear as Displaced in the Combat Report.
- Guided Salvo no longer remains stuck within Sage's wall when obstructed by it.
- The ability for players affected by Nearsight using Stealth Drone to spot enemy player models at specific distances has been corrected.
- Smoke trails from Guided Salvo are improved, preventing visual clipping through walls and structures.
- Stealth Drone's speed is no longer influenced by Sage’s Slow Orb when outside its area of effect.
- Visuals for Guided Salvo's missiles have been corrected to ensure the damage zone representation is accurate.
- Artillery Missile will no longer become stuck or lose functionality when cast while outside of the map bounds.
- Players on different elevations now receive appropriate warning indicators from Guided Salvo's damage.
In the Bind map, the update resolves an issue where sometimes invisible collisions blocked Agent abilities within teleporter rooms, allowing for smoother gameplay.
Premier (PC Only)
- Consistency is achieved in the font sizes on the Change Zone and Delete Team pop-up screens.
- The mode tooltip in match history now displays correctly upon hovering.
- The ineligibility warning tooltip in the lobby has been adjusted for easier activation, enhancing user experience.
Competitive Systems (Console Only)
- A display bug has been fixed where the queue timer was overlapping parts of the Leaderboard page.
These fixes play a key role in enhancing the overall gameplay experience by improving both visual elements and functional game mechanics across platforms. The updated patch ensures that the finer details of gameplay operate smoothly, aiming to provide a seamless and fair environment for all players.