Valorant Players Finally Get Replays with Patch 11.06, But There’s a Limitation
After years of continuous requests from fans, Riot Games has finally added one of the most demanded features to Valorant — the replay system. The feature goes live with Patch 11.06, which is now available for PC. While this is a big step for the tactical shooter, the system arrives with a restriction that not everyone is happy about.
When Can You Use Valorant Replays?
With Patch 11.06, PC users can access replays right away, while console players will have to wait until November. The system is built directly into the Valorant client, giving players the option to download and watch replays through the Career or Match Details tabs.
Replays will be available for Unrated, Competitive, Swiftplay, and Premier matches. Once saved, users can explore different tools, including:
First-person view of all ten players
A third-person free camera
Player outlines for tactical review
Quick navigation to key moments in the match
Riot has also assured that the system will not impact performance, ensuring smooth playback across a wide range of devices.
The Catch With Valorant Replays
Although the new feature is exciting, there is one major limitation. Players can only watch replays of matches they personally participated in. This means no option to download professional tournament games, watch friends’ matches for coaching, or share replay files externally. For now, anyone looking to showcase highlights will still need third-party recording software.
This restriction has disappointed some fans, especially since other esports titles like Dota 2 allow players to review professional games — a valuable tool for learning and analysis. Many in the community feel Riot has missed an opportunity to make replays more impactful for esports and coaching.
Other Updates in Patch 11.06
The update includes more than just replays. Riot also shared additional improvements and fixes:
A massive wave of bans targeting 40,000 bots over the past six months
A fix for Yoru and Reyna, who would sometimes reappear at their original location after going invisible
Console-specific fixes for highlighting issues with weapons and the Spike, with more updates expected in Patch 11.07
Performance boost, as the RawInputBuffer setting is now always enabled
What’s Next for Valorant Players
The addition of replays is a huge milestone for the game, though the current limitations prevent it from being a full learning and coaching tool. Still, after five years of waiting, players finally have a built-in way to review their own performances, opening the door to better analysis and improved competitive gameplay in the future.