Riot Games will debut a brand‑new 2v2 format called “Valorant Gauntlet: Glitched” on 22 September 2026 with patch 13.06, immediately reshaping the familiar tactical shooter.
Reimagined 2v2 Competition
Instead of the usual five‑versus‑five structure, the mode pits eight duos against one another on four compact arenas. Each matchup depletes an opposing pair’s health until only a single duo remains.
These contests are designed to finish in 8 to 15 minutes, offering a concise alternative for players who prefer rapid, high‑stakes play over longer matches.
Hybrid Robo Agents and Random Drafts
Player selection upends traditional Agent choice. Defenders and attackers blend abilities, allowing, for example, a mobility skill to pair with a recon tool from a completely different character. Each round presents randomized ability options; teams then decide whether to add a fresh skill or upgrade an existing one.
The draft’s variability forces players to adapt on the fly, ensuring that a single build cannot dominate across all games.
Levels of Luminosity: Ability Upgrades
Drafted skills can progress from Level 1 to Level 3, with some upgrades transforming the original effect. Yoru’s Fakeout can switch from a simple decoy to an active projectile; Skye’s Trailblazer shifts from a scouting creature to a colossal wolf; Gekko’s Wingman enlarges dramatically while keeping its concussive burst.
Mixed‑Skill Duos and Dynamic Maps
Gauntlet: Glitched supports mixed‑rank pairings, letting players of varying ranks alliance without restriction. The four arenas draw inspiration from Breeze, Icebox, and Corrode, reworking familiar sightlines and cover for tighter 2v2 battles.
During idle periods, participants can practice aim on floating targets from a platform overlooking the map, keeping reflexes sharp while the bracket advances.
Image Credit: Riot Games
Image Credit: Riot Games
Archive and Release Information
The mode arrives in conjunction with the 13.06 patch, slated for launch on 22 September 2026. Players can immediately experiment with the new hybrid builds, attack‑tracking mechanics, and skill‑level progression on the five fresh arenas.
Those interested in testing out their Duo’s synergy will find the shorter, varied matches an engaging test of adaptability and strategic depth.
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