Your in-game name in Valorant, also known as your Riot ID, is an important part of your identity in the game. It’s what your teammates and opponents see above your agent. While Riot allows you to customize your ID when you first create your account, you may eventually want to change it later on. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to edit your Valorant in-game name.
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Why You Might Want to Change Your Name
There are a few common reasons why Valorant players update their in-game names:
- Your name is outdated or no longer reflects who you are as a player. When you first created your account, you may have chosen a silly name or one that doesn’t match your playstyle anymore.
- You want to rebrand. If you’re a streamer or competitive player, changing your name to your brand can help fans recognize you.
- You joined a team or organization. Esports organizations often require players to add team tags to their names.
- You want to match with friends. Coordinating fun names with a group of friends can showcase your connection.
How Often Can You Change Your Name?
Riot allows Valorant players to change their Riot ID for free, but there are limitations:
- You can only change your name once every 30 days.
- Changing your Riot ID updates your name across all Riot games tied to your account.
So while name changes are free, don’t expect to swap new names every day. Make sure your new ID is something you’ll be happy with for at least a month.
Step-by-Step Guide to Updating Your Name
Ready to edit your Riot ID? Follow this simple process:
Close the Valorant Game Client
If Valorant is currently running, exit the game before moving forward. Having the client open can sometimes interfere with the name change process.
Access the Riot Website
Next, access the Riot Account management website from your internet browser. You’ll need to be logged into the Riot account that has the ID you want to change.
In the left sidebar, click on “Riot ID” to access the name editor. This is where you can view and customize your current ID.
Click the Pencil Icon
Your current Riot ID will display on this page with a pencil icon next to it. Click this icon to activate the name editor.
Type New Name
A text field will appear that allows you to type a new name. Enter the updated name you want linked to your account.
Add a Tagline (Optional)
Under your new name, you can also edit your tagline. This is the series of numbers and letters that comes after your name like a clan tag. Updating it is optional.
Save Your New ID
Once done, click “Save Changes” at the bottom to confirm the edits. Riot will then verify the name doesn’t violate any terms of use.
Relaunch Valorant
Finally, relaunch Valorant to see your shiny new name in-game! It may take a minute or two for the client to fully update.
And that’s it! Riot makes it relatively painless to freshen up your name over time. Just be mindful of the 30-day waiting period between changes.
Tips for Picking a New Name
Choosing that perfect Riot ID can be tricky. Here are some tips:
Keep it short and simple. Short names are easier to recognize and remember. They also allow for bigger taglines.
Add team tags if you play competitively so fans can support your squad.
Incorporate game terms like “Smokes” or “Duelist” if they match your agent pool.
Reflect your identity whether it’s your name, gamertag, or an inside joke.
Stand out from the crowd by avoiding overused terms like “Pro” or “YT.”
Check name availability before finalizing so you don’t have to settle for backup names with extra numbers.
Avoid offensive or inappropriate terms that violate Riot’s terms of use and could risk a suspension.
Common Name Change Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about altering your in-game name:
Does changing my Riot ID affect my matchmaking or Competitive rank?
Nope! Updating your name is purely cosmetic. It won’t reset or alter your matches or rank in any way.
Can I revert back to a previous name?
Unfortunately, old names aren’t stored or saved. However, nothing stops you from entering a formerly used name as your new ID.
Do I have to pay to change my name?
Riot currently allows free name changes with the 30-day limitation. Don’t fall for any websites offering paid name changes for Valorant.
Can someone else take my name after I change it?
Yes. Once you swap names, your old ID becomes available for anyone else to claim. Make sure you really want to let go of your former handle!
And that covers the basics of customizing your Riot ID within Valorant! Take time to find a name that you feel attached to and displays your identity. Just remember to avoid anything offensive that violates Riot’s terms. Have fun out there!
