VCT 2024’s intense schedule disappoints Valorant pros

Riot Games’ recent release of the 2024 VCT season schedule has sent ripples through the competitive Valorant community, and not all of them are waves of excitement.

As Valorant Champions 2023 draws to a close, the next year of Valorant Esports promises a whirlwind of international events and a revitalized Challengers League system. While fans have welcomed the increased number of Masters tournaments on the horizon, professional players have raised their voices in concern, highlighting a schedule that offers little respite and maintains the status quo of limited downtime.

Ready for 2024? We think we are… Here’s the TL;DR on what to expect from the VALORANT Champions Tour in 2024: pic.twitter.com/NHeZAJxPv0

— VALORANT Champions Tour (@ValorantEsports) August 23, 2023

Among the voices of discontent is Timofey ‘Chronicle’ Khromov from Fnatic, who questioned the rationale behind the long off-season and a seemingly relentless event calendar. Chronicle’s team, Fnatic, has been at the forefront of competitive Valorant this season, clinching victory in VCT LOCK//IN, VCT Masters Tokyo, and securing a spot in the VCT EMEA Grand Finals. With this extensive experience, they understand the rigors of a schedule without breaks, especially for teams consistently qualifying for events.

A Need for Balance and Stability in Valorant Esports

The situation raises important questions about the structure and stability of Valorant esports. Leo Faria, in charge of Valorant Global Esports, has often faced criticism for a system that lacks stability for Tier 2 Valorant teams.

i guess they want to troll people with this schedule, no rest for 7 months AGAIN

can we at least get some explanation why we are not getting longer season where people can actually rest in mid-season, instead of playing non-stop especially if you are qualifying to every event? https://t.co/XDXq0p4VpT

— kronikel (@chronicleEZ) August 23, 2023

 

The feedback from players centers on the absence of rest for teams that do qualify for tournaments and the continued six-month off-season for most teams. The cycle of prolonged off-seasons may exacerbate existing issues rather than resolve them. The sentiment is best summed up by Chronicle’s plea: “Can we at least get some explanation why we are not getting a longer season where people can actually rest in mid-season, instead of playing non-stop, especially if you are qualifying for every event?”

The Toll of a Packed Schedule on Players

The current calendar for VCT 2024 is reminiscent of last year, with qualified teams navigating back-to-back events. While this rewards successful teams, it also increases the risk of burnout, affecting both mental and physical well-being. A proper off-season and adequate breaks are essential components for maintaining player health and performance.

With 33 teams spanning three regions in VCT 2024, only a fraction will secure a spot in the final championship. The absence of Last Chance Qualifiers adds pressure on teams to perform consistently, potentially contributing to burnout and performance dips due to the relentless schedule.

Header: Riot Games