Tips to Improve Your Game Sense in VALORANT
When playing the fast-paced game of VALORANT, good aim alone is not enough. In addition to having good aim, you also need game sense, which allows you to make informed decisions and strategic plays. Veteran VALORANT players have shared some quick and easy tips to help newcomers improve their game sense.
New players can find it difficult to pick up on game sense, especially with all the utility flying around. However, these tips from experienced players can provide some guidance.
VALORANT players recently shared their “game sense rules” on Reddit, outlining key factors to keep in mind for a better chance of success. Many tips revolved around being mindful of ultimates and how to handle bomb plants.
1) Be Aware of Enemy Ultimates
Ultimates play a significant role in how teams approach each round. It’s crucial to be aware of which ultimates are ready or close to being ready on the enemy team. By keeping an eye on the enemy’s ult economy, you can anticipate their next moves.
For example, if you notice that one enemy needs only one more ultimate point at the start of the round, they will likely go after an Ult Orb. You can use this knowledge to your advantage and make a play while they’re busy capturing the orb.
2) Keep Track of Opponents’ Ultimate Counts
Knowing that the enemy has ultimates ready allows you to strategize accordingly. For instance, if you need to defuse the spike and the enemy’s Brimstone has their ult (Orbital Strike), there’s a good chance they’ll use it when they hear a tap on the spike to delay the defuse. Instead of trying to stick the defuse, consider tapping the bomb and hopping off to avoid being caught in the ult. Being aware of specific ultimates helps you anticipate the enemy’s actions.
3) Use Smoke to Defuse the Bomb
In post-plant situations, smoking the bomb can provide cover while you defuse. Aim to place the smoke at least halfway on the bomb, even if the enemy can spam through it. In certain scenarios, this could be your best chance to secure a win.
4) Don’t Assume Someone is Faking a Defuse
If you’re on the attacking side in a post-plant situation, don’t assume someone is faking the defuse. Instead, jiggle or jump peek to check if the enemy is still defusing after a tap. This simple action can often force them off the spike, even without shooting at them. Use smart tactics to make the enemy run out of time, leading to a round win when the bomb detonates.
Related: All changes coming to Breeze in VALORANT Episode Seven, Act Two
These are just a few tips to keep in mind when developing your game sense in VALORANT. It’s important to note that they may not always work in every situation. The best way to improve game sense is to play more and become familiar with what strategies work and what don’t. As you gain more experience and comfort in the game, you’ll naturally develop smarter decision-making skills in the middle of a round.