Riot overhaul Valorant’s Premier Mode with practice queue, playoff seeding, and more

Riot Games is shaking up Valorant’s Premier mode with many exciting changes and new features including, playoff seeding, extended registration periods, technical timeouts, new Premier practice mode, and more.

When Premier mode was initially introduced its goal was to provide players with the excitement of high-stakes competition. However, there was one problem – the rewards didn’t quite live up to the hype. Winning those matches felt somewhat underwhelming since players only received titles and points without any placement in events.

New Stage. New heights. Let’s go.

Take a look at some of the changes coming your way in Premier Stage E7A3. Want to learn more? Get the full rundown in our FAQ:

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— VALORANT (@VALORANT) October 24, 2023

 

However, it seems that Riot is finally prepared to introduce a highly rewarding in-game pathway to tournaments with the upcoming Episode 7 Act 3 update. Players will experience these changes after the Episode 7 Act 3 update on October 31, 2023. Until then the current Premier mode will maintain its existing ruleset.

All the changes coming to Valorants Premier mode:

Premier Practice: This feature is a game-changer for teams and individuals who want to elevate their gameplay. Premier Practice allows you to warm up on match days while adhering to the Premier ruleset. The best part? The outcome of these practice matches doesn’t impact your team’s score. It’s an opportunity to refine strategies and improve those skills before the deal.

Extended Registration Period: To make the Premier mode inclusive, Riot Games is extending the team registration period to one and a half days. This gives players enough time to gather their dream team or find the crew to compete with in the Premier ladder. 

Timeouts: Understanding the importance of timeout. Riot Games is introducing Timeout, granting each team one timeout per side during Premier matches. If things get exceptionally intense and go into overtime guess what? You’ll receive a timeout. It’s that break you’ve been longing for.

Playoff Seeding: Teams that put in great effort securing wins and earning more points will now receive a fantastic reward—a favorable seeding in the Playoff tournament.

Playoff Queue: Riot Games is introducing a Playoff Queue where teams will have to wait for 15 minutes. The purpose is to create a lobby without any skill level differences. 

Premier Crests: Esports thrives on viable platforms and recognition and Riot Games understands this. They are introducing Premier Crests to track a team’s journey through the Premier stage. These crests will evolve based on metrics like points, wins, and losses providing a dynamic representation of a team’s performance.

As Valorant’s competitive landscape continues to evolve Riot Games remains committed to keeping things fresh and player-friendly. The developers are actively listening to player feedback and are determined to establish Valorant Premier as a viable path to pro. With extended registration periods, timeouts and dynamic Premier Crests Valorant players have plenty to look forward to. 

Header: Riot Games