VALORANT fans expecting their regular patch drop on July 14th got a surprise instead, no patch update at all. Riot Games has officially scrapped Patch 11.01, but there’s a massive reason behind this decision that could change your gaming experience.
Major Changes Incoming to Valorant
While VALORANT patches usually drop like clockwork, this strategic skip isn’t about delays or problems. Riot is preparing for something much bigger: the transition to Unreal Engine 5. This isn’t just a technical upgrade; it’s a complete performance overhaul that could change how VALORANT feels and plays.
The community was already buzzing after Patch 11.00 introduced Act 4 with the new Corrode map. Players were naturally expecting the usual follow-up tweaks and agent balancing in 11.01. Instead, Kenny “Karnifexlol” Cameron dropped this bombshell.
“Yes, today is when we’d normally put out a new patch. But in order to prepare for the upcoming UE5 upgrade, we’re skipping Patch 11.01 and making any changes scheduled for this patch with 11.02, coming July 29.”
What Will Unreal Engine 5 Change in Valorant
Here’s where things get exciting for players. VALORANT currently runs on Unreal Engine 4, but UE5 brings game-changing improvements that competitive shooters like Fortnite, Marvel Rivals, and Tekken 8 are already leveraging.
Visual and Performance Upgrades
For competitive players, this could mean cleaner sight lines, better visibility, and more consistent frame rates, all crucial advantages in high-level play.
- Sharper visuals and enhanced graphics through advanced rendering
- Nanite technology for incredible detail without performance hits
- Lumen lighting system creates more realistic environmental effects
- Smoother gameplay through optimised rendering processes
Timeline: When to Expect the Next Update
On July 29, 2025, Patch 11.02 is expecteded to be released with all the content originally planned for 11.01. While Riot hasn’t confirmed exact timing, patches typically launch during off-peak hours to minimize server strain.
Pro Scene Impact: Perfect Timing for VCT
From a competitive standpoint, this cancellation is brilliant timing. VCT Stage 2 regional competitions are reaching their climax across all four regions (Americas, EMEA, China, Pacific), with teams fighting for Championship Points and spots at VALORANT Champions Paris 2025.
Will this Benefit Pro Teams on VCT?
- Stable meta through crucial tournament matches
- No mid-tournament adjustments to strategies and team compositions
- Healthy buffer time between the July 29 patch and Champions
- Performance improvements from UE5 will benefit both casual and pro players
What This Means for Your Ranked Games
The engine upgrade could significantly impact your competitive experience. Better performance optimization means more consistent aim, smoother movement, and fewer technical disadvantages. For players grinding ranked or aspiring to go pro, these improvements could be the difference between hitting that next rank milestone.
Sarah Smith is a passionate gamer girl who loves playing Valorant in her free time, climbing the ranks to Ascendant 3 with a peak of Immortal 1. When she's not locking down sites as a Cypher main, she’s fragging out with Reyna, Jett, or supporting with Skye. Her favorite maps include Haven, Ascent, and Fracture, where she loves using her go-to weapons like the Vandal, Marshal, Stinger, and Ghost. A big fan of stylish plays, Sarah rocks her favorite skins from the VCT 2021 bundle, Prime, and Nocturnum collections.