When Do Valorant Patches Go Live?
Valiant players, it’s that time again! The developer’s patch notes are out, and you’re wondering when the new update will roll out. In this article, we’ll tackle the question on everyone’s mind: When do Valorant patches go live?
When are Valorant Patches Typically Released?
Riot Games, the developer of Valorant, typically releases new patches on Tuesdays. This scheduling allows for a consistent flow of updates throughout the week, giving players a chance to experiment with new agents, maps, and mechanics before the next patch drops.
Patch Notes and Timing
Before we dive into the schedule, it’s essential to understand what patch notes are. Patch notes are the official release notes from Riot, detailing the changes, fixes, and new content included in the latest update. These notes are usually available several days before the patch goes live.
- Typical Patch Notes Timeline:
- Saturday or Sunday: Patch notes are uploaded to the Valorant website, containing information about the upcoming changes.
- Monday: The Valorant servers begin to update, and the build is tested internally.
- Tuesday: The patch goes live, usually around 12:00 AM PT (Pacific Time).
Reasons for the Tuesday Release Schedule
Riot Games has been transparent about their decision to release patches on Tuesdays. Here are some benefits of this schedule:
• Competitive Balance: Tuesdays allow for a consistent schedule for professional players and teams, ensuring balanced competition and fair play.
• New Content and Feedback: With updates on Tuesdays, players can dive into new content and provide valuable feedback to the developers, helping shape future changes.
• Server Maintenance: The downtime is used for server maintenance, ensuring a seamless experience for players.
Exceptions: Special Events and Updates
While the Tuesday schedule holds true for most patches, there may be exceptions:
- Special Events: Patches are sometimes delayed or released early to accommodate special events, such as majors, tournaments, or holiday-themed celebrations.
- Critical Updates: In extreme cases, Riot may release a patch immediately to address critical issues, such as balance changes or game-breaking bugs.
- Beta and Experimental Patches: These patches may be released earlier or later than the standard schedule.
Patch Size and Download Requirements
Before the patch goes live, be prepared for the following:
- Size: Patches can vary from 100MB to 1GB or more, depending on the changes and fixes included.
- Download Requirements: Stable internet connection is a must, as the game will need to update and download the new files.
Future of Valorant Patches
As the game continues to grow and evolve, Riot Games may need to adjust their patch schedule. It’s essential to stay informed about any updates, changes, or exceptions through the game’s official channels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: What time do patches usually go live?
- A: Patches typically go live around 12:00 AM PT (Pacific Time) on Tuesdays.
- Q: Can I play during the patch?**
- A: NO, the servers will be down during maintenance, and you won’t be able to play.
- Q: Why don’t patches go live on weekends?
- A: The Tuesday release schedule allows for consistent competitive balance, testing, and feedback.
- Q: Are patch notes always available 3 days before the update?**
- A: YES, patch notes are usually uploaded to the website on Saturday or Sunday.
- Q: Can I still play if the patch is delayed?**
- A: YES, the delayed patch will still be available once released.
- Q: Are server maintenance times the same as the patch release time?**
- A: NO, server maintenance occurs before the patch goes live.
- Q: Can I still play after the patch goes live?**
- A: YES, the game servers will be available once the patch has finished updating.
In conclusion, Valorant patches typically go live on Tuesdays, with patch notes available on Saturdays or Sundays. Understanding the schedule and exceptions is crucial for a smooth gaming experience. With this information, you’ll be better prepared for the next update and stay ahead of the competition.