Valorant, developed by Riot Games, is one of the most popular competitive FPS games. Its ranked mode, called Competitive, allows players to climb ranks and compete at higher levels. However, access to Competitive mode requires players to reach level 20. If you’re new to the game, you might wonder why this restriction exists and what you can do before reaching level 20. This guide explores the reasons behind the requirement and offers tips for leveling up faster.

Understanding Competitive Mode in Valorant

Competitive mode in Valorant is designed for players who want to test their skills and climb through the ranks, from Iron to Radiant. The system uses Matchmaking Rating (MMR) to pair players of similar skill levels, ensuring fair matches.

Why Is Level 20 Required?

Riot Games implemented the level 20 restriction to maintain fairness and balance:

1. Skill Evaluation: Level 20 ensures players have a solid understanding of the game’s mechanics.
2. Smurf Prevention: It reduces the likelihood of experienced players creating new accounts to dominate lower ranks.
3. Account Security: Helps identify legitimate accounts and prevent abuse.

Can You Play Competitive Valorant While Under Level 20?

While you can’t play Competitive mode under level 20, there are several other game modes available to help you improve your skills and prepare for ranked play.

Available Game Modes

• Unrated: Standard matches without ranking implications.
• Spike Rush: A shorter, fast-paced version of Unrated.
• Deathmatch: Ideal for improving aim and reflexes.
• Practice Range: Helps you familiarize yourself with weapons, abilities, and agents.

Improving Gameplay Before Level 20

Here are three essential tips to help you improve your gameplay in Valorant before unlocking Competitive mode.

Master Core Mechanics

Improve your aim by practicing precise crosshair placement at head level. Work on movement skills like strafing to stay mobile while keeping control of your aim. Focus on map awareness to predict enemy positions and adjust your gameplay accordingly.

Learn Agent Abilities

Experiment with different agents to find one that matches your style. Learn how to use their abilities effectively, such as deploying smokes, flashes, or heals, to support your team and outplay opponents.

Study Maps

Understand the layouts of maps, including bomb sites and key areas like choke points. Learn common callouts to communicate better with your team and make smarter in-game decisions.

How Long Does It Take to Reach Level 20?

Reaching level 20 depends on your play frequency and performance. On average:

• Unrated Matches: Offer consistent XP per match.
• Daily Missions: Provide a significant XP boost.
• Weekly Missions: Help you gain larger amounts of XP.

Strategies to Progress to Level 20 Faster

Here are some effective strategies to help you reach level 20 in Valorant quickly and efficiently.

1. Complete Daily and Weekly Missions

Daily and weekly missions are an excellent source of bonus XP. These tasks often involve actions like getting kills with specific weapons, planting or defusing the spike, or using agent abilities effectively.

Completing them not only boosts your XP but also encourages diverse gameplay. Check the mission list after each match to ensure you’re working toward these objectives in every game, as they refresh regularly.

2. Play Consistently

Consistency is key when leveling up. The more matches you play, the more XP you accumulate, regardless of the outcome. Shorter modes like Spike Rush or Deathmatch are great for quick games and steady XP gains.

Combine these modes with longer Unrated matches to balance your time and maximize rewards. Playing daily ensures you capitalize on active missions and maintain a steady progression pace.

3. Focus on Performance

Your in-game performance significantly impacts the XP you earn. Achieving high scores, securing multiple eliminations, and completing objectives like planting or defusing the spike contribute additional XP.

Even in matches you don’t win, strong individual performance can make a noticeable difference. Focus on teamwork, communication, and improving your skills to maximize your rewards per match.

4. Use XP Boosts

Riot Games frequently introduces events, Battle Passes, or seasonal bonuses that include XP boosts. These boosts can significantly accelerate your progression by multiplying the XP earned in matches or missions.

Participate in these events whenever they’re active and consider purchasing the Battle Pass if you’re committed to leveling up quickly, as it often includes additional mission rewards.

Why the Level 20 Requirement Matters

Here’s why the level 20 requirement in Valorant is crucial for ensuring fair and balanced Competitive play.

Ensuring Fairness in Competitive Mode

Requiring level 20 ensures that players entering Competitive mode have enough experience to contribute effectively to their teams. This helps maintain balanced matchmaking and reduces frustration for teammates.

Preventing Smurfing and Abuse

The restriction discourages experienced players from creating new accounts to dominate lower-ranked games, preserving the integrity of the ranking system.

Preparing Players for Ranked Play

Reaching level 20 allows players to:

• Gain familiarity with agents, maps, and weapons.
• Develop teamwork and communication skills.
• Build confidence for Competitive matches.

FAQs About Competitive Mode in Valorant

Here are answers to some common questions about Competitive mode in Valorant to help you better understand its requirements and mechanics.

1. What Happens If I Try to Play Competitive Under Level 20?

You’ll receive an error message indicating that the mode is locked until your account reaches level 20.

2. How Many Matches Do I Need to Unlock Competitive?

The exact number depends on your XP gains per match. Consistent daily play and mission completion can unlock the mode faster.

3. Can I Practice Competitive-Like Gameplay Before Level 20?

Yes, you can play custom matches with friends or focus on Unrated games to simulate Competitive conditions.

4. What Ranks Are Available Once I Unlock Competitive?

Your first five placement matches determine your initial rank, starting from Iron and progressing to higher tiers based on performance.

Best Practices for Competitive Play

Once you’ve unlocked Competitive mode, follow these tips to succeed:

• Warm Up: Spend time in Deathmatch or the Practice Range before queuing.
• Communicate Effectively: Use voice chat to share callouts and strategies with your team.
• Focus on Teamplay: Valorant is a team-based game, so prioritize working with your squad over individual performance.
• Take Breaks: Avoid burnout by taking regular breaks between matches.

Conclusion

While you can’t play Competitive mode in Valorant until you reach level 20, this restriction ensures a fair and balanced environment for ranked play. Use the time leading up to level 20 to hone your skills, learn the game’s mechanics, and build confidence. Once you unlock Competitive, you’ll be better prepared to climb the ranks and enjoy the challenge.

Have questions or tips for progressing to level 20? Share them in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this guide with your fellow players!