Table of Contents
Unlocking Ranked Mode
To play competitive ranked matches in Valorant, you first need to unlock the mode by reaching account level 20. Prior to this, you were required to play at least 10 unrated games, but now reaching level 20 is the requirement.
Here are some tips to level up faster:
- Earn 5,000 Account XP (AP) to gain one account level
- Play more games
- Get XP bonuses from completing daily and weekly challenges
Once you hit level 20, ranked mode will automatically unlock.
Placement Matches
After unlocking ranked, you need to complete five placement matches for the game to determine your initial rank. Performance in these matches matters more compared to the initial unrated matches. Based on your wins and individual performance, you will be placed within one of the nine competitive tiers.
Ranks in Valorant
The ranks in Valorant competitive mode are:
- Iron
- Bronze
- Silver
- Gold
- Platinum
- Diamond
- Ascendant
- Immortal
- Radiant
All ranks except Radiant are further divided into three tiers (for example Bronze 1, Bronze 2, Bronze 3).
RR and MMR
To rank up, you need to gain RR (Rank Rating) points. You get RR points based on wins and your performance in each competitive match. Once you get 100 RR points, you will rank up to the next tier.
Along with the visible RR, Valorant also uses a hidden MMR (Matchmaking Rating) to match you with similarly skilled players. This rating goes up or down after each match based on various factors.
Winning and Climbing Ranks
To climb ranks in Valorant’s competitive mode:
- Focus on winning matches rather than just getting kills
- Queue with a full 5 stack team for better coordination
- Maintain composure and avoid toxicity
- Analyze your mistakes and work on improving
- Master agents that suit your playstyle
- Develop game sense through experience
Set yourself a goal (for example, reach Gold rank) and keep playing with a growth mindset. Over time, you will climb up the ranks.
Maintaining Rank
Radiant and Immortal players need to keep playing regularly to maintain their rank on the leaderboards. At least one competitive match per week is required, otherwise the player gets removed from the leaderboard.
For other ranks, there is no requirement to play weekly. But taking long breaks can demote you or reset your rank at the start of a new Act.
Finding Your Playstyle
Instead of randomly picking agents, take some time to analyze your playstyle and preference:
- Duelist – Confident aim and aggressive plays
- Controller – Strategy and map control
- Initiator – Information gathering and team support
- Sentinel – Defense and intel gathering
Pick agents that match your natural playstyle and abilities. This will lead to faster improvement and more enjoyment.
VOD Reviews
One excellent way to improve faster is watching your own VODs (videos) to analyze mistakes and work on them. You can also watch pro players and streamers to learn their strategies and decision making.
Focus on aspects like aim, crosshair placement, ability usage, positioning, economy management etc. Taking the time to self-review and learn from others will accelerate your competitive ranked journey.
Finding a Team
Queuing with a regular 5 stack team is ideal for ranked Valorant. The coordination and communication leads to more success. Maintain a positive attitude, be open to feedback, and keep practicing together. Having a regular team to play with prevents frustrations and toxicity from playing with random teammates.
So in summary, play regularly, analyze your replays, find your playstyle, queue with friends, and keep a growth mindset. Stick to a self-improvement plan, and you will climb up the ranks in Valorant’s competitive mode.
