Valorant ranks - understanding the competitive ladder

Af Simon - 14 Apr 2025

Valorant, Riot Games' tactical first-person shooter, has become a popular title in the competitive gaming world. At the heart of its competitive scene is the ranked mode, where players are placed into skill-based tiers known as "ranks." Understanding these ranks is essential for tracking your progress, setting goals, and improving your gameplay. If you're looking for a comprehensive guide, you can check out this detailed explanation of the Valorant Ranks.

What Are Valorant Ranks?

Valorant ranks are part of the game's competitive matchmaking system. They are designed to match players with others of similar skill level while providing a way to measure personal improvement and competitiveness. The ranking system spans a wide range of skill levels, from beginners to elite-level players.

The Rank Tiers

There are currently nine main rank tiers in Valorant, each with three sub-divisions (except the highest rank). These are:

  1. Iron (Iron 1, Iron 2, Iron 3)
  2. Bronze (Bronze 1, Bronze 2, Bronze 3)
  3. Silver (Silver 1, Silver 2, Silver 3)
  4. Gold (Gold 1, Gold 2, Gold 3)
  5. Platinum (Platinum 1, Platinum 2, Platinum 3)
  6. Diamond (Diamond 1, Diamond 2, Diamond 3)
  7. Ascendant (Ascendant 1, Ascendant 2, Ascendant 3)
  8. Immortal (Immortal 1, Immortal 2, Immortal 3)
  9. Radiant (no sub-divisions)

The system is designed to be dynamic and responsive to performance changes, allowing players to rank up or down based on their in-game efforts.

Radiant – The Pinnacle of Competitive Play

Radiant is the highest achievable rank in Valorant. Only a very small percentage of players reach this level, and it represents the apex of skill and competitive success. To reach Radiant, players must first progress through all lower ranks, including Immortal, and then be placed among the top players in their region.

How Ranking Works

Valorant uses a matchmaking rating (MMR) system to determine a player's position in the rank hierarchy. While the exact formula is not publicly disclosed, several factors influence your MMR and ultimately your rank.

Factors That Influence Rank

  1. Match Outcome: Winning matches significantly helps your chances of ranking up, especially if you’re on a win streak.
  2. Individual Performance: Performances such as kills, assists, deaths, and overall impact can influence progression.
  3. Consistency: Performing consistently well in matches increases your MMR, making you more eligible for promotions.

It's important to note that you can still rank up even if your stats aren't spectacular, as teamwork and match victories are highly valued.

Placement Matches and Rank Reset

At the start of every new Episode, Valorant introduces a rank reset feature. Players are required to complete placement matches again to recalibrate their rank. This system ensures that players are accurately placed according to current skill levels.

Typically, five placement games are needed to reveal your new rank. Your performance in these matches - as well as your rank at the end of the previous Act - will influence your new ranking position.

Tips for Ranking Up

If you're looking to climb the Valorant ladder, here are a few effective strategies:

  1. Play with a team you trust to improve coordination and communication.
  2. Focus on improving your aim and map awareness through practice and game review.
  3. Maintain a positive mindset and avoid tilt to perform consistently.
  4. Use agents that align with your strengths to maximize your impact.

Conclusion

The Valorant ranking system is at the core of its competitive appeal. Whether you're just starting in Iron or pushing for Radiant, understanding how the ranking system works can help you improve and enjoy the climb. Stay persistent, keep learning, and remember - every match is a chance to grow. For deeper insights and updates, be sure to check out the full guide on Valorant Ranks.