Episode 9 Act 3 of VALORANT is slated to end on February 20, 2024, at approximately 5:00 PM PST/8:00 PM EST, ushering in the dawn of Episode 8 Act 1. This marks the conclusion of the current competitive season and prepares players for new content, ranking resets, and the inevitable grind to climb the leaderboards once more.
Understanding VALORANT Episode and Act Structure
Before we dive deeper, it’s crucial to understand how VALORANT structures its content releases. The game operates on a system of Episodes and Acts. Each Episode is a larger content cycle, lasting approximately six months, and is divided into three Acts, each lasting around two months. Each Act introduces new content, balance changes, and often, a new Battlepass and sometimes a new Agent. Understanding this cyclical nature is key to anticipating future updates and knowing when content is expiring.
Predicting End Dates and Riot’s Communication
Predicting end dates can be tricky as Riot Games occasionally makes adjustments. However, they usually provide a countdown timer in-game leading up to the end of an Act. This countdown is the most reliable source of information. Additionally, Riot typically announces the end date and the start date of the new Act on their official social media channels and website. Regularly checking these sources is recommended for the most accurate information.
What Happens When an Act Ends?
The end of an Act brings about several key changes:
- Competitive Rank Reset: Your ranked progress is partially reset, requiring you to play placement matches to regain your rank. The degree of reset depends on your previous rank. Higher ranks typically experience a more significant reset.
- Battlepass Expiry: Any unearned rewards from the current Battlepass are lost. It’s crucial to complete your desired Battlepass tiers before the Act concludes.
- Content Rotation: Sometimes, game modes or limited-time events are removed or replaced.
- New Content Introduction: A new Act brings new Agents, maps, Battlepasses, and weapon skins, refreshing the gameplay experience.
Preparing for the End of Episode 9 Act 3
With the end date rapidly approaching, now is the time to:
- Complete the Battlepass: Focus on finishing your Battlepass to earn all available rewards.
- Grind for your Desired Rank: Push yourself to reach your target rank before the reset.
- Practice with New Agents: Experiment with different Agents and strategies to prepare for the upcoming meta changes.
- Stockpile VALORANT Points: If you plan on purchasing the new Battlepass or skins, ensure you have enough VALORANT Points.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Will my hidden MMR be reset at the end of the Act?
No, your Matchmaking Rating (MMR), which is a hidden number that determines the skill of players you’re matched against, is not fully reset. While there’s a soft reset, your previous performance significantly influences your placement after playing placement matches. This ensures relatively fair matchmaking.
Q2: How many placement matches do I need to play after the Act ends?
You’ll need to play five placement matches to receive your initial rank in the new Act. Your performance in these matches, along with your hidden MMR from the previous Act, will determine your starting rank.
Q3: Will all my weapon skins disappear when the Act ends?
No, weapon skins are permanent and will remain in your inventory. Only the Battlepass, seasonal events, and temporary game modes are removed or rotated.
Q4: What happens to unspent Radianite Points?
Radianite Points (RP) used to upgrade weapon skins do not expire and will remain in your account for use in future Acts. Spend them now to upgrade your skins if you haven’t already!
Q5: Can I still purchase the Episode 9 Act 3 Battlepass after it ends?
No, Battlepasses are only available for purchase and progression during their respective Acts. Once the Act ends, the Battlepass and its rewards are no longer accessible.
Q6: Will my rank decay if I don’t play before the Act ends?
No, VALORANT does not have rank decay. Your rank at the end of the Act will be the starting point for your placement matches in the new Act, factoring in the soft reset.
Q7: Where can I find the most accurate information about the end date of the Act?
The in-game countdown timer is the most reliable source. Riot Games also posts official announcements on their website (playvalorant.com) and social media channels (Twitter, Facebook, etc.).
Q8: What new content is expected in Episode 8 Act 1?
While specific details are often kept under wraps until closer to the release date, expect a new Battlepass, potential map changes, weapon skin bundles, and possibly a new Agent. Stay tuned to Riot’s official channels for announcements.
Q9: Will the ranking system be changed in Episode 8 Act 1?
Riot Games frequently tweaks the ranking system to improve fairness and competitiveness. Whether there will be significant changes in Episode 8 Act 1 remains to be seen, but any updates will be announced beforehand. Watch for patch notes and developer blogs.
Q10: What should I do to improve my rank before the end of the Act?
Focus on improving your game sense, communication, and aim. Watch professional VODs, practice in the range, and communicate effectively with your teammates. Identify your weaknesses and work on addressing them.
Q11: Will the new Agent be available immediately when Episode 8 Act 1 starts?
Typically, new Agents have a grace period before they become available in Competitive mode. This allows players to learn the Agent’s abilities and strategies in unranked modes. Expect Riot to announce the competitive availability date.
Q12: What is the difference between an Episode and an Act in VALORANT?
An Episode is a larger content cycle lasting approximately six months, encompassing three Acts. Each Act introduces new content, balance changes, and often a new Battlepass. Think of Episodes as larger “seasons” containing smaller, more frequent updates within each Act. Episodes generally feature overarching themes or storylines, while Acts focus on more granular content releases.