Riot Games Announces Major Upgrades to VALORANT Challengers Ecosystem
Fans of competitive VALORANT can finally rejoice as Riot Games has revealed exciting changes coming to the Challengers ecosystem next year. These updates aim to enhance the tier-two scene and provide more opportunities for players to compete and develop their skills.
One of the most significant changes is the transition to a year-round Challengers league. Starting in 2024, the league play will continue during the tier-one offseason after Champions, ensuring that players have continuous opportunities to showcase their talents. Additionally, Riot will introduce a new Challengers affiliate program and loan system, allowing tier-one teams in the international VCT leagues to collaborate with and support tier-two teams.
Although the Challengers leagues in 2023 generated high levels of competition and viewership in select markets, many tier-two VALORANT fans and participants expressed their dissatisfaction with the brief duration of events. Numerous teams saw their season end by June, leading to organizations dropping rosters with no matches for the next six months.
Back in June, Leo Faria, the global head of VALORANT esports, promised year-round competition for Challengers starting from the 2024 season.
While the specifics of the expanded Challengers calendar for 2024 are yet to be finalized, one confirmed change is the relocation of the Ascension tournament to September, following the conclusion of Champions. This scheduling adjustment is expected to elevate the tournament’s prominence, according to Riot officials.
Related: Tier two VALORANT has a bright future with Riot’s support
Riot has also granted partnered teams in the international VCT leagues the ability to establish an affiliate relationship with Challenger League teams and utilize a new player loan system, enabling the exchange of players between the two levels. This integration allows tier-one teams in VCT to easily call up players from their affiliate Challengers league.
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