The clock ticks down, tensions run high, and then it hits: the VCT Kickoff has wrapped, and we’re gearing up for Valorant Masters Santiago 2026. Just before the adrenaline-fueled action kicks off, Riot Games rolls out an electrifying patch—Valorant Update 12.03. This isn’t just any update; it’s packed with new features, significant buffs, and game modes that could shift the competitive landscape. Ready for the highlights? Let’s unpack what’s in store.
Valorant Patch Notes 12.03 Key Highlights
- Skirmish 2v2 Mode Added: This exciting new mode offers a matchmaking queue without abilities, allowing full access to weapons each round. It’s a race to 10 rounds—no frills, just skill.
- Gekko Buffed: The Mosh Pit ability is now reclaimable, while the Globule reclaim timer extends to 20 seconds, giving players added strategic flexibility.
- APAC Competitive MFA Requirement: Players ranked Ascendant and above, as well as flagged accounts, must enable Riot Mobile MFA to queue for Competitive matches.
- Masters Santiago Pick’Ems Live February 19: Forecast which teams will advance in the Swiss Stage and earn rewards, including an exclusive title.
- Audio Occlusion Improved: Sound effects correctly respond to map doors being opened, closed, or destroyed, enhancing your tactical gameplay.
- Replay Quality of Life Update: A new option to skip spectating dead players has been added for smoother viewing.
- All Random One Site Loadout Adjustments: Weapon pool tweaks have been implemented, buffing niche options for better balance.
Agent Updates in Valorant Patch Notes 12.03
This patch zeroes in on Gekko while introducing some fresh voice lines for Viper. The goal? To enhance gameplay consistency and flexibility without initiating a complete overhaul.
Viper
- New voice lines have been added to enhance interactions, particularly with Omen and Vyse.
Gekko
Since his introduction in patch 11.08, Gekko has been struggling to stay relevant among other Initiators. This update seeks to redefine his abilities, elevating his impact and ease of use.
Globules
- Reclaim timer has been increased from 15 seconds to 20 seconds, enhancing strategic options.
Mosh Pit
- This ability is now reclaimable after use, allowing for greater tactical play.
General Updates in Valorant Update 12.03
The updates enhance both replay usability and overall gameplay quality in a few noteworthy ways.
- Audio occlusion has improved, responding accurately to various door interactions on the map.
- Replays now offer a feature to skip dead players, creating a more streamlined experience.
Every sound matters in Valorant, and correcting audio occlusion surrounding doors is a hidden advantage that could change your strategy in matches.
Competitive Updates in Valorant Patch Notes 12.03
This patch introduces important security measures for competitive integrity in APAC.
- Players ranked Ascendant and higher, as well as flagged accounts, must enable Riot Mobile multi-factor authentication to access Competitive matchmaking.
- Other modes remain unaffected, allowing flexibility outside of the competitive sphere.
Account-sharing has no place in high-stakes gameplay, and these requirements ensure fair play in ranked lobbies.
Esports Features in Valorant New Update 12.03
The integration of esports features continues to flourish within the Valorant client.
Masters Santiago Pick’Ems
- Pick’Ems launch on February 19 PT, letting players predict team performance.
- Earn extra points for flawlessly predicting a team win with a 2-0 score.
- Exclusive titles and additional prizes await those with the sharpest predictions.
VCT Player Stats
- Player stats are now accessible on the Esports Hub Teams page.
These Pick’Ems serve as an effective engagement tool, encouraging casual players to keep an eye on team dynamics and current matchups.
New Limited Time Mode: Skirmish 2v2
The Skirmish 2v2 mode is the centerpiece of this patch, serving as a refined test of your aiming skills.
Mode Details
- Enter the 2v2 matchmaking queue, either solo or with a partner.
- The first team to win 10 rounds takes the victory.
Gameplay Rules
- All abilities are disabled.
- Enjoy full weapon access each round.
- Select no agent—jump right into action.
Maps
- Skirmish A
- Skirmish B
- Skirmish C
- Random map selection for each match.
This mode strips Valorant to its core—if your go-to excuse has been your character’s abilities, this format shatters that argument.
Valorant Patch Notes 12.03: All Random One Site Updates
The wildly unpredictable All Random One Site mode is undergoing some critical loadout adjustments.
Loadouts
- Loadout stages have been refined.
- Certain weapons have been added to specific stages.
- Buffs have been applied to niche selections for better gameplay balance.
This mode embraces chaos, yet these alterations aim to keep the fun intact without sacrificing player agency.
Bug Fixes in Valorant New Update 12.03
Modes
All Random One Site
- An issue where Vyse could place infinite Razorvines during the Buy phase has been resolved.
Known Issues
Some problems have been acknowledged for patch 12.04.
Battlepass
- Pressing ESC can cause Battlepass elements to glitch, disappearing and reappearing unexpectedly.
- Scolling through tiers is currently unresponsive.
Store
- The accessories store background is missing.
- The Reaver Bandit is mistyped as limited edition.
PC Only Progression Updates
The Event Pass and Battlepass interface have been refreshed for a better user experience.
- Layout and button styles have been updated for clarity.
- You can now navigate tiers using either the mouse or arrow keys.
Are you ready to jump into the competitive fray with Gekko or will you take your skills for a spin in the new Skirmish mode? The battlefield awaits your command.