Valorant drops support for older Windows 10 Versions: How to Update your System

Valorant, one of the most popular tactical first-person shooters in the world, has recently made an important announcement that is bound to affect a significant portion of its player base. Riot Games, the developer behind Valorant, has stated that the game will no longer support older versions of Windows 10, specifically version 1909 or earlier, starting from December 1st, 2023.

This change comes as a response to the evolving landscape of software and technology, and Riot Games' commitment to ensuring the integrity and security of their game. The decision to discontinue support for these older Windows 10 versions is primarily attributed to the fact that Microsoft no longer updates them, which can leave potential vulnerabilities that malicious users might exploit.

Riot Games has made it clear that this move is essential to allow their development team to focus on technological initiatives that can enhance the Valorant experience and the Vanguard anti-cheat system, making the game more secure and stable for all players.

Notifying Players of the Change

Players who are still using these outdated Windows 10 versions will receive a message informing them of the change, which may prompt them to take action. If you're unsure about your Windows version or how to update it, don't worry. We'll guide you through the process.

How to Check and Update Your Windows Version

To ensure that you won't encounter any issues when playing Valorant after the update, follow these steps to check your Windows version:

1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the "Run" dialog.
2. In the dialog box, type the following command: `winver`.
3. A message box will appear, displaying your Windows version, such as "Windows 10 version 21H2" or similar.

If your system is running an older version, here's how you can update it:

1. Click on the "Start" menu.
2. Select "Settings."
3. Go to "Update & Security."
4. Click on "Windows Update."
5. Press the "Check for updates" button.

Updating your Windows 10 version is crucial to continue enjoying Valorant without any interruptions.

Mixed reactions from the Valorant community

While Riot Games' decision to discontinue support for older Windows 10 versions is undoubtedly a step towards enhancing security and performance, it has also sparked mixed reactions from the Valorant community. Some players are concerned about the stability of the game, while others are simply frustrated with the frequent updates and patching process.

Here are some reactions from the Valorant community:

1. "They need to make the game more stable for Windows 11; there are still too many bugs, and some days the game just keeps crashing."
2. "In a few months, it'll probably become exclusive for Windows 11."
3. "I've never seen a more poorly optimized game."
4. "They want to lose players."
5. "What about those who spent money on the game and can't play it anymore? Can we get our money back?"

In summary, it's clear that Riot Games' decision has left a portion of the Valorant community feeling frustrated and concerned about the direction the game is heading. The developers will need to find a balance between improving the game's performance and ensuring accessibility for as many players as possible.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Riot Games' decision to cease support for older Windows 10 versions reflects the evolving tech landscape and their commitment to game security. However, it has triggered diverse reactions within the Valorant community, with concerns ranging from game stability on Windows 11 to frustrations over the patching process. The developers face the challenge of balancing performance improvements and player accessibility. As Valorant evolves, Riot Games must find a path that maintains their dedicated player base while adapting to changing technological demands. The impact of these changes on Valorant and its community will become clearer over time.

Keep following Strafe for more information about Valorant as well as real-time updates of competitive matches.

Feature image credits: Riot Games// Valorant Twitter

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