Valorant Wishlist: 8 Features Riot Should Add ASAP

TL;DR

  • Implement map veto system in ranked play to reduce random map frustration
  • Add agent ban phase to counter overpowered characters and encourage strategic diversity
  • Revise temporary map rotations to keep favorite maps available in alternative modes
  • Introduce replay system for competitive analysis and improvement
  • Enhance shop, statistics, and community content features for better player experience

Since Riot Games first revealed their tactical FPS project in late 2019, Valorant has revolutionized the competitive shooter landscape with its consistent content updates and polished gameplay experience. However, despite four years of refinement, several crucial competitive features remain absent that could significantly elevate the ranked experience for dedicated players.

Map Veto in CS2
Map Veto in CS2

Valorant currently restricts its pick-and-ban functionality to professional tournaments and custom matches, leaving ranked competitors at the mercy of random map selection. This oversight creates unnecessary frustration when players repeatedly draw maps where they lack expertise or simply dislike the layout. Implementing a map veto system similar to CS:GO’s competitive model would empower teams to eliminate their least preferred battlegrounds before matches begin.

A more advanced competitive feature would introduce an Agent Veto system where each team could ban one or two agents per match. This mechanic would directly address balance concerns around overpowered characters that frequently dominate the meta-game. Such a system forces strategic adaptation and prevents repetitive matches against the same agent compositions. Games like Rainbow Six Siege have successfully implemented similar ban phases, creating more dynamic and unpredictable matches that test true game knowledge rather than just agent mastery.

Practical implementation of these systems requires careful planning. For map vetoes, a simple alternating ban process where teams take turns eliminating maps until one remains would work effectively. Agent bans could occur in a pre-match phase similar to champion select in League of Legends. Common mistakes in implementing such systems include allowing too many bans (which overly restricts player choice) or placing bans after team composition is locked (reducing strategic impact).

The current approach to temporary map rotations often removes fan-favorite battlegrounds for extended periods, frustrating players who have invested time mastering specific layouts. Rather than completely excluding maps from all game modes during updates, Riot could maintain their availability in alternative queues like Deathmatch, Spike Rush, or custom games. This compromise allows continued enjoyment while developers refine problem areas.

Valorant Maps List you can play
All Valorant Maps

Valorant’s expanding map roster creates both diversity and complexity challenges. While newer players benefit from experiencing all available environments, competitive queues should potentially feature a more curated selection focused on balanced, tournament-approved maps. Casual modes could maintain the full rotation, allowing experimentation without impacting ranked integrity. This tiered approach acknowledges the different needs of recreational versus competitive players.

Advanced players should develop proficiency on all active competitive maps rather than specializing in just a few. A common mistake is focusing practice on preferred maps while neglecting weaker ones, which becomes problematic when the random selector assigns unfavorable terrain. Optimization involves dedicating 15-20 minutes daily to map-specific lineups and strategies for your least comfortable locations. Time estimates for mastering a new map typically range from 10-15 hours of focused practice for intermediate players.

For those looking to deepen their strategic understanding beyond map knowledge, our Class Guide offers advanced tactics for agent selection and role specialization that complement map mastery.

Beyond competitive systems, Valorant lacks several standard features that modern tactical shooters typically provide. A comprehensive replay system remains one of the most requested additions, enabling players to review matches from multiple perspectives to analyze mistakes, study opponent strategies, and improve gameplay. Without this tool, competitive development relies heavily on third-party software or manual note-taking during matches.

The in-game store interface and progression systems also need modernization. Current shop rotations create frustration through their limited-time offerings and lack of purchase history. An improved system might include wishlist functionality, more transparent rotation schedules, and better value bundles. Similarly, the statistics page provides basic information but lacks the depth competitive players need to track performance trends, agent-specific metrics, and matchup analytics.

Community content integration represents another growth opportunity. Implementing a community maps option with agent-specific cosmetic rewards would foster creative engagement while providing fresh content between official releases. This approach has proven successful in games like Counter-Strike, where community workshops extend game longevity and discover new talent.

For players transitioning from other tactical shooters, our Complete Guide to modern military games provides valuable context for understanding Valorant’s place in the broader FPS landscape. Additionally, those interested in weapon mechanics can reference our Weapons Unlock guide for principles that apply to Valorant’s gunplay fundamentals.

An honor system recognizing positive player behavior would complement these technical improvements, helping to address toxicity while rewarding sportsmanship. Combined with the previously mentioned features, these additions would create a more complete, player-friendly experience that supports both casual enjoyment and competitive aspirations.

Action Checklist

  • Provide detailed feedback on official Valorant forums about desired veto systems
  • Practice unfamiliar maps in custom games to reduce veto dependency
  • Learn multiple agent roles to adapt to potential ban systems
  • Use third-party tracking tools to compensate for limited in-game stats
  • Participate in community map creation initiatives if available

No reproduction without permission:Tsp Game Club » Valorant Wishlist: 8 Features Riot Should Add ASAP Essential Valorant improvements: Map veto systems, agent bans, and smarter map rotations for competitive play