Riot Games Launches VALORANT Season 2026: New Summit Map and Modes

Riot Games Unveils VALORANT Season 2026 // Act 4

On June 24, 2023, Riot Games, Inc. officially kicked off Season 2026 // Act 4 for its tactical FPS, VALORANT. A standout feature of this update is the introduction of a brand-new map titled 'Summit', set in a radiant training academy in the mountainous regions of China.

The New Map: Summit

'Summit' is designed for 5v5 matches and boasts a unique layout with a few notable features:

- Two Sites: Teams can strategize around A and B sites, enhancing game dynamics.
- Three-Lane Structure: This configuration encourages different play styles and tactics.
- Deployable Walls: Each site comes equipped with walls that can be activated to block sightlines and movement paths until the end of the round.

The immersive experience is enriched by a passage connecting the training halls to a meditation garden, providing both players and spectators with constantly changing battlefield conditions. Historically, this area was home to a radiant monastery where the character Sage honed her skills, adding depth to the game’s lore.

To facilitate an enjoyable experience, during the first two weeks of the season, opponents who lose a match on the Summit map will have their ranked rating (RR) drop reduced by 50%. However, winning will still yield a full 100% RR reward, alleviating the pressure of declining ranks and allowing players to practice freely within the competitive environment. Additionally, a Summit-specific queue will be available for one week, featuring a swift play mode that will appeal to both new and seasoned players.

New Game Modes

Act 4 also introduces a new, thrilling 3v3 mode called `Retake`, perfect for quick-paced gameplay. In this mode, the Spike will already be planted at the start of the match, adding a unique challenge. One team must defend the site while the other attempts to reclaim it and defuse the Spike. Teams will alternate between attack and defense roles. Each round offers randomized loadouts, ensuring that every match feels fresh and strategic.

About Riot Games

Founded in 2006, Riot Games aims to develop, publish, and support games that prioritize player experience. Their debut title, 'League of Legends', released in 2009, quickly became one of the world’s most beloved PC games. Following that success, Riot has launched several acclaimed titles including VALORANT, Teamfight Tactics, Legends of Runeterra, and League of Legends: Wild Rift, all contributing to a rich competitive landscape that draws millions of fans worldwide.

In addition to game development, Riot Games extends its intellectual properties into various multimedia projects, including music, comics, board games, and the Emmy-winning animated series 'Arcane'.

For more information, please visit:

Discover VALORANT

VALORANT is a high-stakes tactical shooter featuring 5v5 gameplay available on PC, PlayStation®5, and Xbox Series X|S. It combines demanding gunfights with each character’s unique abilities, allowing for strategic choices and innovative tactics from players. Designed with a focus on competitive play, VALORANT ensures that players experience thrilling confrontations, even after thousands of hours.

The game is free-to-play, allowing for a broad range of players to join the community. Riot Games is dedicated to offering a competitive and flawless gaming experience across all platforms, supported by robust game servers and an advanced anti-cheat system designed specifically for tactical shooters.

For more details, check the official VALORANT site: