The Future of the VALORANT Tier-Two Scene and the Partnership Model
Last weekend, ahead of the VALORANT Champions 2023, a passionate discussion about the tier-two scene and the Ascension/partnership model ignited a conversation between two influential figures.
Leo Faria, the global head of VALORANT esports, took to Twitter on July 29 to assure fans that an improved plan for the tier-two scene is in the works. Faria mentioned a fully revised calendar, more opportunities for competition, and a focus on sustainability. However, Faria’s reference to The Guard, the VCT Americas-bound NA roster that won Ascension, as a “guest team” sparked a discussion with content creator and tier-two VALORANT team owner Ludwig.
During the conversation, Ludwig advocated for the relegation of VCT teams to add value to Ascension teams. He argued that it would be unfair for The Guard to dominate in VCT Americas for two years only to be sent back to Challengers. While concerns about the sustainability of the tier-two scene and the length of the offseason are valid, relegating partnered VCT teams is not the answer.
When Riot selected the 30 VCT partners, it wasn’t solely based on competitive success. The organizations chosen met the criteria for sustainability and growth. For example, OpTic and XSET, the top two teams from North America in 2022, were not selected to join VCT Americas.
While The Guard’s performance in Ascension was impressive, the organization’s sustainability is questionable. Reports of mass layoffs in February and rumors of selling or shutting down their franchises suggest that The Guard may not meet Riot’s standards compared to the other 10 partners.
Related: How do partnered VALORANT teams generate revenue?
In a hypothetical scenario where The Guard dominates for two years, it’s unlikely that the players would go back to tier two without any opportunities. Partnered teams are likely to pick them up, either as a group or as individuals. The purpose of tier two is to feed tier one with the best talent, and if The Guard’s players remain in tier one after dominating, that goal would be achieved.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that the tier-two VALORANT scene currently faces challenges. The Ascension format is fair but harsh, and with a long offseason and no scheduled events, organizations struggle to maintain rosters. This leaves players unemployed for months on end.
Riot and Faria must unveil their plans for the tier-two overhaul sooner rather than later to prevent players and organizations from leaving the scene with no guarantee of return. This plan should include a packed calendar, more revenue earning opportunities, events that pit tier-one squads against tier-two teams, and the involvement of content creators who significantly boost pro VALORANT viewership.
Should partnered teams have their spots guaranteed forever? No. If a team consistently underperforms, fails to deliver content, and doesn’t build a fan base, Riot should intervene. However, relegating VCT teams after one bad season would undermine Riot’s sustainable approach to VALORANT. And that’s not what anyone wants.
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