Many VALORANT players fail to recognize and value creativity, leading to a decline in the game’s essence. The majority of players I encounter show disdain towards unconventional playstyles that may cause even the slightest inconvenience for them. As someone who enjoys playing as Harbor, an agent capable of slowing down both enemies and teammates, I find this disheartening.
When playing as Harbor in VALORANT, I often hesitate before deploying creatively shaped Hide Tides or slightly tilted Cascades. Why? Because of defensive “Jett mains” who mindlessly push attackers through smokes, resulting in their own deaths. They then proceed to blame me and Harbor’s wall for impeding their progress. “Harbor is trash, why would you play him?” they shout, followed by insults for not knowing how to play a controller.
According to most players I’ve encountered in ranked VALORANT games, I should stick to playing Omen and Brimstone. However, Harbor is not the only agent who faces criticism for promoting a different playstyle.
Take Gekko, for example. Players often prefer Skye or Sova over Gekko. While it may be challenging to fully utilize Gekko’s abilities, it doesn’t mean he is a weak agent. How many times have you managed to dodge his blue splash? Additionally, his kit, including his adorable Wingman, deadly Mosh Pit, and an ultimate that can be used twice in one round, is undeniably strong.
Gekko excels on almost every map, but he requires teamwork to capitalize on his unlimited flash and scouting abilities. A duelist like Jett or Raze can take advantage of Dizzy’s nearly undodgeable flash to secure kills and help Gekko pick up the orb for a second flash. However, the player using Gekko must also understand how to effectively use his kit, and the team should actively participate rather than letting his abilities go to waste.
Another agent worth mentioning is Deadlock. She often receives criticism for her Sound Sensors, which function differently from Killjoy’s Alarm Bot, Cypher’s Trap Wires, and Chamber’s Trademark. However, players don’t criticize Sage for lacking a trap that detects flanks. On Split, Sage is still considered essential for “walling mid.”
I’m not suggesting that Deadlock doesn’t need any changes; she should have the ability to retrieve her Sonic Sensors like her counterparts. However, her traps are not designed to watch flanks as effectively as Killjoy’s or Cypher’s. You can still place her sensors in unexpected spots to catch flankers off guard or have someone watch the flank while using her abilities to delay a retake. It’s simple to appreciate Deadlock’s unique style.
Why can’t VALORANT players adapt their playstyle to an agent’s strengths? It seems they have a fixed idea of what an ideal agent should be like and want Riot Games to conform to it. They don’t embrace out-of-the-box agents like Harbor, Deadlock, Gekko, and even Iso, who require team-based or creative efforts.
The “meta culture” is gradually eroding the VALORANT experience, stifling the creativity necessary to keep a video game alive and enjoyable. To rectify this decline, we must accept and appreciate the creative agents for the unique playstyles they bring, allowing the meta to evolve.
While sticking to a tried-and-tested VALORANT composition may help rank up and achieve a winning streak, it won’t lead to reaching Radiant. Improving aim, game sense, and teamwork are crucial factors. Occasionally, try embracing creativity and appreciating unconventional plays. Trust me, it will be enjoyable.
Source: DOTESPORTS
