Overview of Valorant Update 11.05
The latest patch for Valorant, version 11.05, has been released, bringing notable adjustments aimed at curbing AFK queue dodging by implementing stricter penalties. This update arrives during a significant summer for Riot Games’ celebrated 5v5 shooter, which has been marking its fifth anniversary with substantial changes, including the introduction of new agents, a transition to Unreal Engine 5, and the upcoming addition of a Finisher Cam.
Although this patch does not feature a new agent or map, it focuses heavily on refining existing gameplay, particularly for the agent Harbor, alongside enhancements to player behavior systems.
Changes to Harbor
One of the primary updates in patch 11.05 involves improvements to the visual clarity of Harbor’s abilities. Riot stated, “These aren’t the larger updates we’ve been talking about. But you will hear more about those at Champs, so stay tuned. For the moment, we’re updating the visual clarity of his abilities.”
Reckoning
- Reduced visual noise.
- Updated ground indicator to better illustrate the impact range.
- Adjusted the position of the yellow wisp closer to the impacted agent for better visibility before the concuss effect occurs.
- Shortened the water splash on the ground to enhance visibility.
Cove
Improved visual clarity of shield health states, with the animation for water now better reflecting health state changes.
Esports Features Update
The Pick’ Ems feature returns just in time for Champions Paris, starting September 4th. Players will now have the opportunity to access the Group Stage both in-client and online. Participants can predict which teams will advance and earn points, with additional points awarded for accurately guessing placements. This year, a new twist allows players to align with their favorite creator’s faction, impacting not only individual standings but also contributing to faction scores.
Behavior System Adjustments
Riot has made revisions to the behavior system to tackle issues related to Remake Abuse and AFK gameplay. Penalties will now increase for players who frequently dodge queues or behave in a disruptive manner. Riot emphasizes that genuine players will not face unfair repercussions.
Bug Fixes
General Improvements
- Enhanced backend technology for detection abilities, ensuring they more reliably recognize opponents.
- Added audio cleanup logic to resolve issues with unexpected audio events.
Agent-Specific Fixes
- Astra: Bullet tracers will no longer pass through Astra’s Cosmic Divide, though an audio hitch may reoccur.
- Chamber: In-world icon colors for Chamber’s Trademark will now change correctly when aimed.
- Clove: Fixed a sound issue for the Pick-Me-Up ability.
- Deadlock: Adjustments made to the placement mechanics of Sound Sensor and Trapwire.
- Gekko: Resolved an issue with “Spike Down” voice-over conflicting with Wingman’s destruction.
- Jett: Fixed an audio bug with Tailwind.
- Sova: Addressed an audio feedback issue with Owl Drone during spawn.
- Vyse: Bugs affecting audio triggers and minimap indicators have been resolved.
- Waylay: Corrected an issue with Saturate affecting enemies beyond its intended range.
- Yoru: Fixed color inconsistencies with Gatecrash icon and reappearance issues after invisibility.
Platform-Specific Fixes
PC
- Fixed display issues for long names in the Awards tab.
Console
- Updated leaderboards to reflect Immortal+ ranked rating thresholds.
