VALORANT Patch 13.02: Phoenix Nerf, Retakes Expansion, and Bug Fixes

Riot Games has rolled out VALORANT Patch 13.02, bringing a small nerf to Phoenix, three new maps for the Retakes mode, and a long list of bug fixes across agents and maps. The update also confirms a delay for the highly anticipated AROS: Replication mode.

Phoenix Gets a Small Ultimate Tweak

Riot has increased Phoenix's ultimate point requirement from 6 to 7, meaning players will need slightly longer to unlock Run It Back. The developers clarified this isn't a major balance overhaul, just a correction aimed at bringing Phoenix's ultimate frequency more in line with other agents.

Split, Corrode, and Lotus Join Retakes

The Retakes map pool is expanding with three additions: Split, Corrode, and Lotus. This gives players more variety in the quick-practice mode, which has become a popular warm-up and aim-training option for both casual and competitive players.

AROS: Replication Delayed

Riot confirmed that All Random One Site: Replication will not launch with this patch. Developers acknowledged community anticipation for the mode but said it needs more time before release, promising updates once a new timeline is set.

Agent Bug Fixes

Several agents received fixes this patch:

• Omen: Fixed a missing obstructed placement indicator on Shrouded Step.

• KAY/O: Fixed visual/audio bugs tied to NULL/CMD's downed timer and revive animation.

• Cypher: Fixed incorrect Cyber Cage visuals and a rare disconnect issue during Neural Theft.

• Gekko: Fixed incorrect Wingman voiceover on Spike plant and a low-framerate death bug during plant/defuse.

• Miks: Fixed misplaced or missing M Pulse ability icon/tooltip.

• Reyna: Fixed Dismiss icon staying grayed out after an elimination.

• Chamber: Fixed Rendezvous occasionally failing to teleport him back to his anchor.

• Waylay: Fixed a wall-clip exploit on Icebox's B Tube using Lightspeed and Refract.

• Jett: Fixed a delay bug affecting Tailwind and Updraft after Cloudburst.

• Raze: Fixed Boom Bot briefly clipping through geometry while tracking airborne targets.

• Deadlock: Fixed Annihilation incorrectly capturing Omen during From the Shadows, which caused unintended massive damage.

• Vyse: Fixed Razorvine becoming indestructible if deployed the instant Vyse was suppressed.

Map and Platform Fixes

Summit received a fix for utility getting crushed by already-closed doors. On PC, Riot corrected a cosmetic bug in the network graph display at very high framerates. Console players get fixes for missing haptic feedback on Chamber's Tour de Force, missing aim assist on Yoru's Fakeout, and an unintended speed boost when equipping items right after Waylay's Lightspeed.

Patch 13.02 is a measured stack of meaningful changes that shows Riot's continued focus on refinement over time. With AROS: Replication still on the horizon, players have plenty to look forward to, but for now, 13.02 keeps the game running smoother and fairer heading into the next competitive stretch.

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Featured Image Credit: Riot Games

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