Riot Games Reveals the Creative Process Behind the VALORANT Battle Pass
Riot Games has shared insights into the creative process behind the development of the VALORANT battle pass in a recent blog post. By understanding player preferences, the premium content team strives to create a range of appealing cosmetics and items for players to enjoy.
Creating a Battle Pass for Everyone
The premium content team recognizes that not all players will like every item in the battle pass. However, they emphasize the importance of including at least one item that each player finds appealing. In the latest Dev Diary, the team explains how they create different items and find inspiration for each Act.
The battle pass includes a free track, allowing players to earn rewards without spending money. Certain items, like the Tactibear Buddy, are intentionally not locked behind a paywall to ensure all players have access to them.
A Diverse Range of Cosmetics
The premium content team strives to provide players who purchase the battle pass with a variety of options that fit their style. From sci-fi to fantasy, artsy to a combination of different styles, there is something for everyone. Additionally, the tier order changes in each battle pass, enabling players to unlock weapon skins across various Acts without completing all 50 tiers.
The brainstorming process allows the team to explore unique and creative ideas. Initially focusing on quantity rather than quality, they narrow down the final ideas as they progress. Ideas not used immediately may be reserved for future releases when the team has more time.
A Cohesive Package
Every battle pass is designed to feel like a cohesive package rather than a random assortment of items. The premium content team takes into account factors such as new agent releases, new maps, global events, holidays, the current meta, and what they want to tease about VALORANT when creating the items. This approach ensures a relative theme throughout the battle pass.
Related: Riot further teases VALORANT’s Episode 2 with an image of a dead clock
In each battle pass, there is “theme diversity.” For example, the Act III battle pass features the fantasy-themed Ruin collection, while the Surge collection has a more straightforward design. Player feedback on previous items, like the positive response to the Tactibear Buddy, influences the creation of new items such as the Tactisqurrel Buddy.
The internal VALORANT team also contributes various items, such as the Potato Aim Gun Buddy, which playfully acknowledges poor aim. Some items are created to convey specific ideas to other players. For instance, combining the Sad Crab spray with the Potato Aim Gun Buddy signals to teammates that the player may need some assistance in the game.
This glimpse into the creative process behind the battle passes reassures players that each item is thoughtfully selected. The premium content team ensures that there is something for every player and strives to create a cohesive experience throughout the battle pass.