Even though the development of this version was affected by the recent layoffs at Riot, Valorant's 8.02 update is starting to become available across the different regions. The developers also released the complete patch notes for the update, detailing all the changes and adjustments coming with this version.
Release date
Just as originally expected, patch 8.02 for Valorant was released on Tuesday, February 6. Two weeks before, the patch was set to be added to the PBE servers for testing, but this was delayed due to the development team being affected by the recent layoffs, where Riot decided to let go about 500 employees of its workforce.
Patch notes
Here are the full patch notes that were shared through the official website of the game minutes before its arrival:
Agent Updates
Viper
- Viper’s Poison Cloud (Q) grenade has received an art update.
Misc.
- The visuals for our Decay debuff have been updated to be clearer and readily visible.
Cosmetics Updates
- The Snakebite Shorty has received an art update.
Esports features
Esports Hub
The Esports Hub is back for all of VCT 2024 with new and improved features!
- You can learn more about the full VCT format and follow along as our partnered teams compete in the four International Leagues, starting with VCT Kickoff.
- Kickoff matches begin on February 16th with VCT Americas. VCT Pacific, EMEA and China will follow shortly after.
- As we progress throughout the season, global events like VCT Masters Madrid will unlock in the hub with even better tournament visualizations and brackets so you can keep up with all the action.
- Our live tag and filterable schedule page will let you know when matches are being played, and you can click out to the official streams directly from within the client.
Bug Fixes
Gameplay Systems
- Fixed an issue with killfeed not numbering correctly with area-of-effect abilities that kill multiple people.
- Fixed an issue with Auto Re-Enter Scope setting not updating properly.
Player Behavior
- Fixed an issue where the links to the Terms of Service and Penalties and Bans FAQ were not localized to their respective regions.
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