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Valorant is popular for its fusion of precise gunplay (nudge, wink) and \u2018hero abilities,\u2019 a synergy that creates a distinct gameplay experience. Sure, the core loop might be lifted from CS:GO, but nothing really plays quite like Valorant.<\/p>\n

As far as multiplayer games with big long-legged ambitions go, Valorant is also somewhat unusual because it was launched during the COVID-19 pandemic. This, in turn, forced Riot Games to undertake its quest to establish Valorant as the next big esport during a time when LAN events simply weren\u2019t safe or appropriate, let alone accompanying crowds of fans in attendance \u2014 a key ingredient to creating a sense of spectacle and excitement, and a signature of esports programs throughout history.<\/p>\n

Nearly two years on, and to Riot\u2019s credit, Valorant and its esports scene are thriving nonetheless. The game launched to positive critical reception and has only continued to improve through post-launch support; its esports program \u2013one of the most ambitious and fast-moving ever seen\u2013 is into a second year of full-scale operation and boasts notable viewership. Most recently, Valorant returned to Iceland for a second year running with Masters Reykevik 2022, the first of three major Valorant esports LANs.<\/p>\n

Unfortunately, as was the case last year also, Masters Reykevik did not have a crowd in attendance due to COVID-19 restrictions. Sadly, too, positive cases amongst several players saw some teams having to compete from their hotel accommodations rather than the main stage as a quarantine measure.<\/p>\n

Now, I want to be clear that I think all of these measures are absolutely necessary, and the diligence with which Riot is handling COVID-19 safety is spot on. I am not criticizing any of that decision-making. The purpose of this article is simply to highlight that it\u2019s clear to me after having closely followed this most recent Valorant esports event that live crowds are the missing piece of the puzzle to take the game\u2019s competitive scene to the next level.<\/p>\n

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https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=H29Ej8WsMn8<\/a> <\/p>