Sometimes you just have to ask yourself what it’s all worth. In the case of games, knowing how much gold you need to lay down before you can get stuck in with the latest shooter is a big question. Especially these days when so many big multiplayer games are going free to play. If you want to know if Valorant is free to play then you’ve come to the right place. Simply read on below the jump and we’ll explain any and all costs associated with Riot’s new FPS.
Is Valorant free to play?
© Riot Games
Yes. Valorant is free to play. You can download the launcher at no cost and jump straight into playing future-wizard Counter-Strike. Bear in mind, however, that you will need to install a slightly intrusive anti-cheat program called Vanguard in order to play Valorant.
However, while Valorant is free to play, it does include microtransactions that aren’t purely cosmetic. Similar to League of Legends, not all of the characters in Valorant are available to use immediately when you play the game. Instead, you’ll need to unlock extra characters either working towards their Contracts and earning XP points, or by paying for premium currency. It takes quite a long time to unlock them through general play (we completed one character’s contract during the entire closed beta), so paying is definitely the most expedient way to unlock them, but not the only way.
In addition, there are skins available to purchase at quite a high price. These are entirely cosmetic and have no effect on the gameplay, but worth pointing out anyway. Each skin set is very expensive, but you don’t need to buy them, so try not to let it bother you.
Related Valorant content for your competitive eyeballs:
- Valorant is moving from closed beta to full release: Here's everything you need to know
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- Valorant - Easy Haven Recon Bolt spots you won't forget
That’s everything you need to know about whether Valorant is free to play. In short: yes, but there are characters and skins available to buy. Still, don’t let that stop you from jumping in to give the game a try. Head over to our Valorant game hub by clicking here for more guides, news, and features about the game.
