In a nutshell

• New Bandit pistol and AR1S game mode headline Act 1.
• Breeze rework plus updates to Haven and Corrode enter competitive rotation.
• Competitive MMR system and player behavior policies get major improvements.

Riot Games has officially revealed the details for VALORANT Season 2026 Act 1, introducing a new weapon, a limited-time game mode, major map changes, competitive system updates, and a new skin collection.

VALORANT Season 2026 Act 1 Details

Check out the full details below:

New Sidearm “Bandit”

The Bandit is a brand-new pistol designed to fill the gap between the Ghost and Sheriff. Capable of one-shot headshot kills against enemies with Light armor, the Bandit empowers players during pistol and eco rounds, offering new ways to flex aim and rethink thrifty plays.

Map Updates: Breeze, Haven, and Corrode

Breeze returns to the competitive rotation with significant changes aimed at improving Controller diversity and isolating angles more effectively. Large open spaces have been tightened to reduce “no-man’s land” scenarios.

To ease the transition, RR losses will be reduced by 50% for the first two weeks. Meanwhile, Haven and Corrode receive tweaks to wall penetration spots, making engagements more predictable.

New Limited-Time Mode “AR1S”

Act 1 introduces AR1S (All Random, One Site), a lightning-fast arcade spike mode. In this 5v5 format, players spawn as random Agents each round, with condensed maps forcing fights on a single site.

Featuring tiered Buy phases, contested Map Orbs, and more ultimates, AR1S creates chaotic, unpredictable moments rarely seen in standard play.

Competitive System and Player Behavior Updates

Riot is recalibrating MMR calculations for VALORANT to reflect individual skill better, aiming for more consistent and balanced matches. While most ranks will remain stable, some players may see shifts.

On the player behavior side, a new Community Pact will be required annually to reinforce expectations regarding smurfing, communication abuse, and disruptive conduct. Riot is also introducing Behavior Standing, a system that lets players track penalties, risks, and future consequences tied to their in-game actions.

Ayakashi Skin Collection

Emerging from Japanese mythology, the Ayakashi Collection delivers a dark, modern twist on folklore. Featuring cursed flames and a Kitsune mask motif, the set includes skins for the Phantom, Ghost, and the new Kogitsune dual short katanas melee weapon, which is the first of its kind in VALORANT.