When was Valorant beta?
Valorant, a free-to-play, multiplayer first-person shooter game developed by Riot Games, has taken the gaming world by storm since its release. But before its official launch, the game went through a rigorous testing phase, known as the beta phase. In this article, we’ll dive into the history of Valorant’s beta phase and answer the question: When was Valorant beta?
What is Valorant?
Before we dive into the beta phase, let’s quickly introduce Valorant. Valorant is a tactical, 5v5 multiplayer game that combines elements of CS:GO and Overwatch. Players are divided into two teams, each with a unique set of agents, each with their own abilities and playstyles. The objective is to plant or defuse a bomb, or to eliminate the opposing team.
The Road to Beta
Riot Games announced Valorant in April 2020, with a planned release date in 2020. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the development process was delayed, and the game’s release was pushed back to 2021.
When was Valorant beta?
The Valorant beta phase began on April 7, 2021, and ran for approximately six weeks, concluding on June 12, 2021. The beta phase was divided into three phases, each with its own set of features and game modes.
Beta Phase 1 (April 7-14, 2021)
The first beta phase focused on introducing players to the game’s core mechanics, including the game’s agents, maps, and game modes. This phase was limited to a select group of players, with the majority of players receiving access to the game through a waitlist.
Beta Phase 2 (April 15-28, 2021)
The second beta phase introduced new game modes, including Unrated and Competitive play. This phase also saw the introduction of the game’s ranked system, allowing players to climb the ranks and compete with other players.
Beta Phase 3 (May 25-June 12, 2021)
The final beta phase focused on polishing the game’s balance, introducing new agents, and refining the game’s UI and UX. This phase also saw the introduction of the game’s ranked rewards system, which rewarded players with unique cosmetic items and other rewards for their performance.
What was Tested During the Beta Phase?
During the beta phase, Riot Games tested a wide range of features, including:
• Gameplay Mechanics: The beta phase allowed Riot Games to test the game’s core mechanics, including movement, aiming, and shooting.
• Agents: The beta phase introduced players to the game’s unique agents, each with their own abilities and playstyles.
• Maps: The beta phase featured a selection of maps, including Haven, Ascent, and Bind.
• Game Modes: The beta phase introduced players to various game modes, including Unrated, Competitive, and Spike Rush.
• Ranked System: The beta phase tested the game’s ranked system, allowing players to climb the ranks and compete with other players.
What Did Players Experience During the Beta Phase?
Players who participated in the beta phase experienced a range of features, including:
• Early Access: Players had early access to the game’s agents, maps, and game modes.
• Limited Features: The beta phase was limited to a select group of players, with the majority of players receiving access to the game through a waitlist.
• Feedback Mechanisms: Players were encouraged to provide feedback on the game, which was used to refine the game’s balance and overall player experience.
Table: Valorant Beta Phase Timeline
| Phase | Start Date | End Date | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beta Phase 1 | April 7, 2021 | April 14, 2021 | Introduce players to core mechanics, limited game modes |
| Beta Phase 2 | April 15, 2021 | April 28, 2021 | Introduce new game modes, ranked system |
| Beta Phase 3 | May 25, 2021 | June 12, 2021 | Polishing balance, introducing new agents, refining UI/UX |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the purpose of the Valorant beta phase?
A: The purpose of the Valorant beta phase was to test the game’s core mechanics, introduce players to the game’s agents and maps, and refine the game’s balance and overall player experience.
Q: Who was eligible to participate in the Valorant beta phase?
A: The majority of players received access to the game through a waitlist, while a select group of players were invited to participate in the beta phase.
Q: What features were tested during the beta phase?
A: The beta phase tested a wide range of features, including gameplay mechanics, agents, maps, game modes, and the ranked system.
Q: What did players experience during the beta phase?
A: Players experienced early access to the game’s agents, maps, and game modes, as well as limited features and feedback mechanisms.
Q: How long did the Valorant beta phase last?
A: The Valorant beta phase lasted for approximately six weeks, from April 7, 2021, to June 12, 2021.
Q: What was the outcome of the Valorant beta phase?
A: The outcome of the Valorant beta phase was a refined game that was ready for its official launch. The beta phase allowed Riot Games to test the game’s balance, introduce new features, and refine the overall player experience.
Q: Is Valorant still in beta?
A: No, Valorant is no longer in beta. The game was officially launched on June 2, 2021.
Q: Can I still play the Valorant beta?
A: No, the Valorant beta phase has concluded, and the game is now available for all players.
Q: Will there be future updates to Valorant?
A: Yes, Riot Games is committed to supporting Valorant with regular updates, new content, and balance changes to ensure the game remains fresh and exciting for players.