VALORANT players have plenty to look forward to as Riot Games rolls out Season 2026 // Act 4.
Arriving today across PC, Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5, the latest update introduces a brand-new map, an intense new game mode, fresh cosmetics and a Battlepass packed with rewards.
Leading the charge is Summit, a striking new battleground set high in the mountains of China, alongside Retake, a mode that drops players directly into one of VALORANT’s most nail-biting scenarios.
At A Glance
- New map Summit launches June 24th
- New 3v3 Retake mode arrives
- Blackspyre Collection introduced
- New Battlepass rewards available
- Live on PC, Xbox Series X|S and PS5
Summit Changes The Battlefield
The headline addition for Act 4 is Summit, a new 5v5 map located within a Radiant training academy hidden among the mountains of China.
Featuring a classic two-site, three-lane structure, Summit introduces a unique twist through three droppable walls positioned across A Site, B Site and Mid. Once activated, these walls permanently alter the flow of the round by blocking key sightlines and cutting off rotation routes.
The setting also carries some important lore connections. Summit is built on the site of a former Radiant monastery where Sage studied before joining the VALORANT Protocol, adding another layer to the game’s expanding universe.
Riot is also encouraging players to jump straight into Competitive matches. Summit will enter the Competitive queue immediately upon release, with players only losing 50% of the usual Ranked Rating from defeats on the map during its first two weeks, while still receiving full rewards for victories. A dedicated Summit-only playlist will also be available for the first week.
Retake Focuses On VALORANT’s Most Intense Moments
Act 4 isn’t just about a new map.
Retake arrives as a fast-paced 3v3 mode built entirely around the pressure of post-plant situations. The Spike is automatically planted at the start of each round, with one team defending while the other attempts to retake and defuse.
Matches are played as a best-of-nine affair, with the first team to claim five rounds securing victory. Randomised loadouts, escalating equipment options and rotating bomb sites should help ensure that no two matches feel exactly the same. It’s a format designed for shorter sessions while still delivering the tactical tension that defines VALORANT’s gameplay.
Blackspyre Brings A New Look To Your Arsenal
Alongside the gameplay additions comes the arrival of the Blackspyre Collection.
Blending mystical themes with futuristic sci-fi aesthetics, the collection introduces new cosmetics for the Phantom, Sheriff, Spectre and Ares, alongside a brand-new melee weapon known as the Divide.
As expected, Riot is also refreshing the Battlepass with a mix of free and premium rewards. Highlights include the Sky Reaper Ghost on the free track, while paid Battlepass owners can unlock items such as the Sky Reaper Sword melee weapon, Tacti-Guild Phantom, Intertwine Guardian and several new sprays, buddies and player cards.
Another Strong Step For VALORANT
Years after its original launch, VALORANT continues to evolve at an impressive pace. New maps, fresh modes and meaningful competitive tweaks have helped Riot maintain momentum while keeping the experience feeling fresh for long-time players.
When we reviewed VALORANT on Xbox, we awarded it a 4.5/5 score, praising its deep tactical gameplay and addictive competitive loop, concluding that “Valorant may quickly become your next major gaming addiction” for those willing to learn its intricacies.
With Summit introducing dynamic map-altering mechanics and Retake offering a streamlined way to experience the game’s most intense moments, Act 4 looks set to give veterans and newcomers alike another reason to dive back in.
Season 2026 // Act 4 launches today for VALORANT on PC, Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5. Download the game from the usual stores for free, like that of the Xbox Store.
