Riot Games has unveiled an exciting array of features set to launch with Season 2026 Act 3 of Valorant this Wednesday. Among the highlights is the introduction of a ranked queue for the beloved Skirmish mode, which promises to elevate the competitive experience for players. This mode, known for its fast-paced 1v1 and 2v2 encounters, has quickly become a staple since its permanent addition in March, providing a thrilling way for players to hone their skills in high-pressure situations.
Skirmish: Ascension
The new ranked feature, titled Skirmish: Ascension, will introduce comprehensive leaderboards powered by Riot’s FTW challenge platform. Players can engage in solo or duo matches, with a unique set of restrictions designed to test their strategic decision-making. Each agent will have access to only one ability, creating a more focused gameplay experience. The available agents and their corresponding abilities are as follows:
| Agent | Ability |
| Jett | Tailwind |
| Waylay | Refract |
| Chamber | Rendezvous |
| Cypher | Cyber Cage |
| Omen | Shrouded Step |
| Phoenix | Curve Ball |
| Yoru | Clone |
| Iso | Contingency |
| Sage | Barrier Orb |
| Raze | Blast Pack |
| Vyse | Arc Rose |
| KAY/O | Flash/Drive |
| Breach | Flashpoint |
| Veto | Crosscut |
Matches in Ascension will follow a brisk ten-round format, with the first four rounds featuring pistols, followed by rounds five to eight with the Bulldog and Guardian. The final two rounds will allow players to choose between the Phantom or Vandal, catering to various play styles. To participate, players will need both a Riot account and an FTW account, as the ranking system is based on points that consider win-loss ratios and opponent skill levels.
As players ascend the ranks, they will earn titles that reflect their achievements. Those who finish in the Gold to Platinum range will be recognized as ‘Skirmish Competitors,’ while reaching Diamond to Immortal will earn the title of ‘Skirmish Expert.’ The top tier, ‘Skirmish Radiant,’ will be awarded to the elite players at the pinnacle of the leaderboard. Notably, player cards will be distributed via FTW’s rewards tab rather than directly through Valorant, so players should keep an eye on their codes.
Kuronami 2.0
In addition to the competitive updates, Riot is revisiting the Kuronami theme with the launch of Kuronami 2.0. This new skin line features striking designs for the Ghost, Guardian, Operator, and Phantom, alongside a versatile melee weapon that can transform between a kunai and katana. These skins are poised to become fan favorites, particularly for those who appreciate intricate designs. The season’s battlepass also includes the Keys to Elysium Vandal, ensuring that players have plenty of options to express their style in-game.
