Valorant patch 9.02 cracks down on toxic players with serious penalties

Valorant patch 9.02 introduces harsher penalties for players who engage in disruptive and offensive chat.

Like all online multiplayer games, Valorant has a toxicity problem. The difference is that Riot has actively been taking measures to keep the in-game environment in check. Through several patch updates and features, Riot has made it clear that creating a positive and inclusive gaming environment is a top priority.

This time, the developer has implemented a tiered system of punishments for players who repeatedly violate the game’s code of conduct.

• Read More | Riot will now hardware ban toxic players in Valorant

What are the penalties for toxicity in Valorant?

According to Valorant studio head Anna Donlon, repeat offenders could get permanently banned. Valorant patch 9.02 outlines that players will face the following consequences for misusing comms:

• Limits a player’s ability to communicate with other players through text chat.
• Prevents players from using voice communication for a specified period.
• For severe and repeated offenses, players may face temporary or even permanent account suspensions.
• Players who continue to exhibit toxic behavior may be placed in low-priority queues, resulting in longer matchmaking times.

Players have some concerns over Valorant’s new toxicity policy

Some players have expressed concerns about the potential for false reports and abuse of the system.

“I’m worried that players will start reporting each other for minor infractions just to get them banned. We need to make sure the system is fair and doesn’t punish innocent players.” A Valorant player on X said.

Riot Games will need to ensure that the reporting system is robust and fair to prevent abuse and maintain the trust of the community. 

• Read More | Toxic Valorant players will now get insta-mute penalty

Overall, Valorant patch 9.02 is a significant step forward in Riot Games’ efforts to create a positive and inclusive gaming environment. By taking a firm stance against toxicity, the developer is sending a clear message that harmful behavior will not be tolerated.

The community has responded positively to the update, and it will be interesting to see the long-term impact on the game’s atmosphere and player behavior. Valorant patch 9.02 goes live on July 30.