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Cute Valorant Crosshair Codes 2026: Adorable Designs with Import Codes

Yash More
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Cute Valorant Crosshair Codes 2026: Adorable Designs with Import Codes

Valorant players looking to add charm and personality to their matches can use cute crosshair designs that stand out from standard competitive setups. These adorable crosshair codes transform the traditional aiming reticle into playful shapes and characters, bringing fun to the tactical shooter in 2026.

How to Use Cute Crosshair Codes in Valorant

Importing cute crosshair designs into Valorant requires just a few simple steps. Players can paste crosshair codes directly in the Crosshair section of the settings menu. Alternatively, manual input of individual values works for those who prefer customization. To disable the middle chain icon for crosshairs with different vertical and horizontal line lengths, go to settings.

Custom crosshairs often include dynamic elements that move during gameplay. The Range mode offers the perfect testing environment to see how cute crosshairs perform when shooting before using them in ranked or unranked matches.

Duck Crosshair Code (Baby Chick Design)

The duck crosshair ranks among the most popular cute designs in Valorant. This adorable crosshair features two eyes and a mouth that opens and closes based on firing accuracy. Players can change the mouth color to yellow to create a baby bird or chick appearance, adding extra cuteness to every match.

Import Code: 0;P;0t;10;0l;0;0v;2;0g;1;0o;0;0e;0.168;1t;8;1l;10;1v;0;1g;1;1o;17;1a;1;1m;0;1f;0

Smiley Face Crosshair Code

This cheerful design transforms standard crosshair lines into a lopsided smiley face. The smiley crosshair brings positive vibes to casual gameplay and makes every match more enjoyable.

Import Code: 0;P;c;7;t;2;o;1;d;1;z;3;a;0;f;0;0t;10;0l;2;0o;2;0a;1;0f;0;1b;0

Pink Heart Crosshair Code

Heart crosshairs offer one of the cutest options for Valorant players in 2026. The pink heart design works beautifully on screen while maintaining its distinctive shape. Players can customize the color while keeping the heart form intact.

Import Code: 0;c;1;s;1;P;c;8;u;F97AC0FF;h;0;d;1;b;1;z;3;f;0;m;1;0t;4;0l;1;0o;2;0a;1;0f;0;1t;3;1l;1;1o;2;1a;1;1m;0;1f;0;S;b;1;c;8;t;F97AC0FF;s;0.823;o;1

Alternative heart crosshair code: 0;P;c;8;u;F97AC0FF;h;0;d;1;b;1;z;3;f;0;m;1;0t;10;0l;0;0v;3;0g;1;0o;1;0a;1;0f;0;1t;9;1v;0;1g;1;1o;3;1a;1;1m;0;1f;0

Flower Crosshair Code

The flower crosshair provides a delicate and decorative alternative to traditional designs. This flowery option adds natural beauty to the competitive shooter environment.

Import Code: 0;P;c;6;o;1;d;1;z;4;f;0;m;1;0t;8;0l;3;0o;2;0a;0;0f;0;1l;3;1o;3;1a;0;1m;0;1f;0

Googly Eyes Crosshair Code

The googly eyes design creates an animated and playful look on screen. This variation brings character and personality to every aim, making it perfect for players who want cute crosshairs with movement.

Import Code: 0;c;1;s;1;P;t;4;o;1;d;1;z;5;a;0.556;0t;10;0l;20;0v;0;0g;1;0o;13;0a;1;0f;0;1t;1;1l;1;1v;0;1g;1;1o;14;1a;1;1s;0.064;1e;0.375;S;c;0;s;0.628;o;1

Among Us Character Crosshair Code

This crosshair references the popular game Among Us, creating a recognizable and cute character shape on screen that players will instantly identify.

Import Code: 0;P;c;7;t;3;o;1;0t;4;0l;5;0o;0;0a;1;0f;0;1t;8;1l;3;1o;0;1a;1;1m;0;1f;0

Food Themed Crosshair Codes

Hamburger Crosshair

Food-themed crosshairs add a playful touch to Valorant gameplay. The hamburger design brings cute food imagery directly to your aiming reticle.

Import Code: 0;P;c;8;b;1;t;2;o;1;z;2;a;1;0t;10;0l;3;0v;3;0o;3;0a;1;0s;1;0e;1;1t;2;1l;2;1v;2;1o;10;1a;0.35;1s;1;1e;1;u;FFFFFF;d;1;h;1;0g;0;1g;0;0f;0;1f;1;0m;0;1m;1;0b;1;1b;0;m;0;f;0

Additional Fun Crosshair Designs for 2026

Instagram Logo Crosshair

The social media platform logo design brings recognizable branding into Valorant with a clean and modern look.

Import Code: 0;P;c;6;h;0;d;1;z;1;f;0;s;0;0t;4;0l;1;0o;2;0a;1;0f;0;1t;10;1l;1;1o;5;1a;1;1m;0;1f;0

Medkit Crosshair

The medkit crosshair offers a unique healthcare-themed design option.

Import Code: 0;P;c;7;h;0;f;0;0t;6;0l;1;0o;0;0a;1;0f;0;1t;10;1l;1;1o;5;1a;1;1m;0;1f;0

Xbox Logo Crosshair

This crosshair displays the Xbox logo, suited for console players using Valorant.

Import Code: 0;P;c;1;h;0;0t;1;0l;2;0o;1;0a;1;0f;0;1t;3;1l;1;1o;2;1a;1;1m;0;1f;0

Reyna Vision Crosshair

This purple crosshair serves as a reminder for Reyna players to use abilities before entering bombsites.

Import Code: 0;P;c;6;t;6;o;0.3;f;0;0t;1;0l;5;0o;5;0a;1;0f;0;1t;10;1l;4;1o;5;1a;0.5;1m;0;1f;0

Windmill Crosshair

The windmill crosshair stands out with its large size and movement that highlights firing errors. This design works best for casual matches.

Import Code: 0;P;c;7;t;2;o;1;d;1;z;3;f;0;0t;10;0l;2;0o;2;0a;1;0f;0;1b;0

Simple Cute Crosshair Alternatives

Plus Sign Crosshair

A simple cross design that remains clean and minimal while offering an alternative to standard setups.

Import Code: 0;P;c;7;h;0;f;0;0l;4;0o;2;0a;1;0f;0;1t;8;1l;1;1o;1;1a;1;1m;0;1f;0

Smooth Aim Crosshair

This design focuses on providing clean aiming lines with a smooth appearance.

Import Code: 0;P;h;0;f;0;m;1;0l;3;0o;2;0a;1;0f;0;1t;8;1l;1;1o;2;1a;1;1m;0;1f;0

Why Use Cute Crosshairs in Valorant 2026

Cute crosshair codes allow players to express personality and stand out in lobbies. While professional players typically use minimalistic designs for competitive advantage, casual players can enjoy these adorable alternatives without sacrificing too much accuracy. The extensive customization options in Valorant make it easy to switch between cute designs for fun matches and standard crosshairs for ranked games.

Best Practices for Cute Crosshairs

Players should test cute crosshairs in the Range before using them in competitive matches. Many cute designs include dynamic elements that change during shooting, which standard screenshots cannot fully capture. This testing helps players understand how the crosshair performs during actual gameplay and whether it suits their playstyle.

The Valorant crosshair system in 2026 continues to offer players creative freedom. Whether choosing a duck crosshair for its animated mouth, a heart for romance, or a smiley face for positivity, these cute codes bring joy to every match.

Marteen Valorant Settings: Complete Guide to Sensitivity, Crosshair, and Gear Setup

Yash More
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Marteen Valorant Settings: Complete Guide to Sensitivity, Crosshair, and Gear Setup

Martin “marteen” Pátek has emerged as one of the most mechanically gifted players in the Valorant Champions Tour. The Czech professional currently plays for Gentle Mates and has made headlines by breaking the all-time VCT kill record during the EMEA region kickoff. His exceptional aim and aggressive duelist playstyle have made his settings a topic of interest for players looking to improve their own game. Here is a complete breakdown of marteen’s Valorant settings, including his mouse sensitivity, crosshair, resolution, and full hardware setup.

Who Is Marteen?

Martin “marteen” Pátek is a professional Valorant player from the Czech Republic who currently represents Gentle Mates in the VCT circuit. He previously played for regional teams including eco chalks, GMT Esports, and eSubha before breaking through on the international stage. Marteen established himself as a top-tier duelist during the VCT 2024 EMEA Kickoff, where his team secured first place by defeating top organizations including Fnatic, Navi, and Team Heretics. His most recent achievement includes setting a new all-time VCT kill record while helping Gentle Mates qualify for the Masters Santiago.

Marteen Mouse Settings

Marteen uses a relatively low sensitivity compared to many other professional Valorant players. His settings prioritize precision and consistency over fast flicks.

  • DPI: 800
  • In-Game Sensitivity: 0.39
  • eDPI: 312 (calculated by multiplying DPI by sensitivity)
  • Scoped Sensitivity: 1.587
  • Polling Rate: 1000Hz
  • Windows Sensitivity: 6

His eDPI of 312 places him on the lower end of professional Valorant sensitivities. This allows for extremely precise crosshair placement and controlled spray patterns, which are essential for a duelist player who needs to win aim duels consistently. Players attempting to replicate marteen’s settings should be aware that this sensitivity requires a large mousepad and full arm movements for wider turns.

Marteen Crosshair Settings

Marteen uses a clean and minimal crosshair with no distractions. The crosshair is designed for maximum visibility without clutter.

  • Color: White
  • Outlines: Off
  • Center Dot: Off
  • Inner Line Opacity: 1
  • Inner Line Length: 3
  • Inner Line Thickness: 2
  • Inner Line Offset: 0
  • Outer Lines: Off
  • Movement Error: Off
  • Firing Error: Off

This crosshair is a simple white cross with no center dot and no outer lines. The lack of movement or firing error indicators keeps the crosshair static during movement and shooting, allowing marteen to focus purely on enemy positions rather than crosshair animations. Players who prefer a clean visual setup will find this crosshair effective for tracking heads across all ranges.

Marteen Video Settings

Marteen plays on settings optimized for competitive performance rather than visual quality. His resolution and graphics settings are focused on maximizing frame rate and reducing input delay.

  • Resolution: 1920×1080 (16:9 aspect ratio)
  • Display Mode: Fullscreen
  • Frame Rate Limit: Unlocked

Professional players are now required to use resolutions provided in-game for official matches, which means marteen plays on the standard 1920×1080 resolution. This gives him the widest field of view available in Valorant while maintaining a high refresh rate on his monitor.

Marteen Gaming Gear and Hardware

Marteen’s hardware setup is built around responsiveness and consistency. Each piece of equipment is a popular choice among professional players.

  • Mouse: Logitech G PRO X Superlight 2 (White/Magenta)
  • Keyboard: Wooting 60HE
  • Headset: Logitech G PRO X 2 LIGHTSPEED
  • Monitor: Alienware AW2518H
  • Mousepad: Logitech G640 or G740

The Logitech G PRO X Superlight 2 is one of the lightest and most responsive wireless mice available, weighing under 60 grams. The Wooting 60HE is a mechanical keyboard with analog input technology, allowing for faster actuation and more control over key presses. His Alienware AW2518H monitor offers a 240Hz refresh rate, which is essential for competitive play at the highest level.

Why Players Copy Marteen’s Settings

Marteen’s settings have gained popularity because they reflect a balance between precision and competitive performance. His low sensitivity allows for highly accurate aim, while his minimal crosshair keeps the screen uncluttered during fights. Players who prioritize consistency over flashy flicks will find marteen’s setup effective for ranking up in competitive mode.

However, it is important to note that settings alone do not make a professional player. Marteen’s success comes from thousands of hours of practice, game sense, positioning, and teamwork. Players should use professional settings as a starting point and adjust based on their own comfort and playstyle.

How to Import Marteen’s Settings

To replicate marteen’s crosshair in Valorant, players can manually input the values listed above in the crosshair settings menu. Valorant also allows players to copy crosshair codes directly, though marteen’s specific crosshair code was not provided in available sources. Players can recreate it by setting the color to white, turning off outlines and center dot, and adjusting inner line length to 3, thickness to 2, and offset to 0.

For mouse settings, players should adjust their DPI to 800 in their mouse software and set in-game sensitivity to 0.39. This will result in the same eDPI that marteen uses.

Xbox Game Pass Full Games List: February 2026

Pranav Nalawade
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Xbox Game Pass Full Games List: February 2026

Microsoft has confirmed a strong lineup of new titles arriving on Xbox Game Pass throughout February 2026. The month includes day-one launches, shadow drops, and notable catalog additions spread across multiple subscription tiers. Whether you are on Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, or PC Game Pass, there is a range of games landing on the service this month. Here is the complete breakdown of every confirmed game coming to Xbox Game Pass in February 2026, along with the titles leaving the service.

What Is Xbox Game Pass?

Xbox Game Pass is Microsoft’s subscription gaming service, launched back in 2017. It gives players access to a library of over 800 titles on Xbox consoles and Windows PC. The service is split across several tiers: Game Pass Essential, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass, and Game Pass Ultimate. First-party Microsoft studios titles always land on Game Pass Ultimate on day one. Third-party titles and catalog additions are often spread across the other tiers, depending on the publisher agreement in place.

All New Xbox Game Pass Games in February 2026

Microsoft has confirmed the following games arriving across both waves of the February 2026 Game Pass update. Games are listed with their confirmed dates and the subscription tiers they are available on.

  • Final Fantasy II (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) — Available from early February on Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, and PC Game Pass.
  • Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC) — Available from early February on Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, and PC Game Pass. This title arrives ahead of the next entry in the series, Yakuza Kiwami 3, which is also scheduled to arrive on the service later in the month.
  • Madden NFL 26 (Cloud, Console, and PC) — February 5 on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. This sports title arrived just ahead of the Super Bowl. Players who claim the game by March 6 also receive a free Supercharge Pack.
  • PAW Patrol Rescue Wheels: Championship (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC) — February 5 on Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, and PC Game Pass.
  • Relooted (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) — February 10 on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.
  • BlazBlue Entropy Effect X (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) — February 12 on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. This roguelite action game is set in the BlazBlue universe and features fast-paced 2D combat.
  • Roadside Research (Game Preview) (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) — February 12 on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. In this game, up to four players take on the role of aliens running a gas station on Earth, completing tasks to avoid raising a suspicion meter while gathering data on human customers.
  • Starsand Island (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) — February 12 on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. A relaxed life simulation set on a quiet island.
  • Diablo II: Resurrected — Shadow dropped on February 12 on Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, and Premium. This surprise addition coincided with the launch of the Reign of the Warlock update for the game. Only the base game is included on Game Pass.
  • High on Life 2 (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) — February 13 on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. This is a day-one launch for the service. The sequel to the original talking-gun comedy shooter follows a new intergalactic conspiracy threatening humanity, with players teaming up with a cast of alien weapons to fight across various locations.
  • Kingdom Come: Deliverance (Cloud, Console, and PC) — February 13 on Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, and PC Game Pass. A story-driven open-world RPG set in medieval Bohemia, following a character seeking to avenge the death of his parents.
  • Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC) — February 17 on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.
  • Avowed (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) — February 17. This Obsidian Entertainment RPG is now available on Game Pass Premium for the first time, timed to coincide with the game’s release on PS5.
  • Indika — Confirmed for February on Game Pass. Tier details were not specified in the official announcement.
  • Menace — A day-one Game Preview launch confirmed for PC Game Pass, though its inclusion was not part of the official Wave 1 announcement from Microsoft.
  • Death Howl — Confirmed for February. Originally launched on PC in December, it makes its console debut this month. Available on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.

Games Leaving Xbox Game Pass in February 2026

As new titles arrive, others rotate out. Players have the option to purchase any departing title at a 20 percent discount before it leaves the library.

The following games have already left or are confirmed to be leaving Game Pass during February 2026:

  • Madden NFL 24 left the service in early February, replaced by the current year’s entry, Madden NFL 26.

The second wave of departures confirmed for later in February includes Cataclismo, Citizen Sleeper 2, Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders, Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap, PAW Patrol World, Shady Part of Me, and Starbound.

Xbox Game Pass Tiers Explained

It is worth noting which tiers apply to each game in the list above, since not all games are available on every tier.

Game Pass Ultimate covers all games on the service, including day-one first-party launches, cloud gaming, and console and PC access. PC Game Pass is limited to Windows PC and does not include console access. Game Pass Premium, formerly known as Game Pass Standard, is a mid-tier console option that sits between Essential and Ultimate. Essential covers a smaller catalog of around 50 games and does not include day-one first-party titles. First-party Microsoft titles from studios such as Obsidian, Bethesda, and Activision Blizzard are generally available on Game Pass permanently once added.

What Is Coming to Xbox Game Pass Later in 2026?

Microsoft has confirmed additional titles are on their way to Game Pass throughout the rest of 2026, though many do not yet have exact dates. Planet of Lana II: Children of the Leaf is confirmed for March 5, 2026. Other titles with 2026 release windows but no confirmed dates include projects from Xbox first-party studios and various third-party publishers. A new Fable game and Gears E-Day have also been mentioned as first-party titles expected to arrive on the service during 2026.

Which Xbox Game Pass Plan Is Right for You in 2026

Aritra Patra
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Which Xbox Game Pass Plan Is Right for You in 2026

Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service that grants access to a large library of games on Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, and mobile platforms through cloud streaming. If you are a die-hard gamer, you probably have used this subscription service at least once in your lifetime. It has multiple subscription tiers, each of which is suited to a specific type of gamer and platform.

As of 2026, Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass has 5 subscription plans in total for various gaming types and platforms. Below is an in-depth summary of each:

1. Xbox Game Pass Core

Xbox Game Pass Core

Xbox Game Pass Core costs $9.99 monthly and is accessible for Xbox consoles. It includes access to online console multiplayer, a handpicked catalog of more than 25 console games, and special offers and discounts. It is the perfect choice for gamers who mainly need online multiplayer functionality and a set of chosen games.

2. PC Game Pass

PC Game Pass

PC Game Pass is specifically designed for PC players and is priced at $11.99 a month. It gives access to the Game Pass library on PC, day-one releases for new games, exclusive discounts and offers, and an EA Play membership. The subscription guarantees PC players a huge library of titles along with extra benefits such as EA Play.

3. Xbox Game Pass Standard

Xbox Game Pass Standard

Xbox Game Pass Standard was first launched in September last year. It is priced at $14.99 monthly and can also be availed for Xbox consoles. It features online console multiplayer, access to the vast Game Pass catalog on Xbox consoles, and special deals and discounts. This tier, however, does not grant instant access to new, day-one titles.

4. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is the most extensive plan with a price tag of $19.99 a month and can be accessed on both Xbox consoles and PC. It offers online console multiplayer, access to the Game Pass library on both Xbox consoles and PC, day-one access to new titles, exclusive discounts and deals, an EA Play membership, and access to Xbox Cloud Gaming. This subscription is aimed at players who want the versatility to play on both console and PC platforms with the bonus of cloud gaming.

Which One Is Perfect for You?

One of the largest differences in the plans is within the game library. The Core plan has a smaller list of around 25 console games, and it is a basic plan for customers who want a small but good collection. The Standard plan offers access to the entire Game Pass library on Xbox but lacks new releases on release day. PC Game Pass provides total access to the extensive collection of PC games, including day-one releases. Therefore, it is an excellent choice for PC gamers. Ultimate is the most comprehensive edition, providing full access to the Xbox and PC libraries, as well as day-one releases.

Day-one releases are also significant for some players. PC Game Pass and Ultimate alone offer new games as soon as they are released. Core and Standard subscribers must wait or buy new games individually.

Multiplayer access is another major feature. Core, Standard, and Ultimate have online multiplayer for Xbox users, so they are a must for people who like to play with friends. PC Game Pass does not, however, offer multiplayer for Xbox games because online multiplayer on PC is free already.

In this article, we have provided a breakdown of all Xbox and PC Game Pass subscription models. We hope it will make it easy for readers like you to compare and choose the right plan. Now it’s up to you which subscription you should choose. Let us know which one you are currently using in the comment section below.

Valorant Skirmish 2v2: Everything You Need to Know About the New Game Mode in Patch 12.03

Yash More
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Valorant Skirmish 2v2: Everything You Need to Know About the New Game Mode in Patch 12.03

Riot Games has added Skirmish as a 2v2 matchmaking queue in Valorant Patch 12.03, which went live on February 17, 2026. Previously only available inside custom game lobbies, Skirmish can now be played through standard matchmaking as a limited-time mode. The format strips the game back to its most basic form: no agent abilities, no economy, and no objectives. Just two players against two players, settled entirely by gunplay.

What Is Skirmish 2v2 in Valorant?

Skirmish is a round-based limited-time mode designed around pure mechanical skill. The 2v2 format means two players on each side, with the only goal being to eliminate the opposing duo. There is no Spike to plant or defuse, no ability usage of any kind, and no credit economy to manage. Every player spawns each round with access to the full weapon selection and is not limited by money earned in previous rounds.

Riot Games described the mode simply in the Patch 12.03 notes: “Compact maps, no abilities, gunplay only.”

Skirmish 2v2 Rules at a Glance

The rules for Skirmish 2v2 are straightforward. The first team to win 10 rounds takes the match. Because there is no economy system, players choose their loadout freely every single round without any financial consequence. There is also no agent select screen, which removes one of the longer steps in a standard Valorant match and makes getting into a game faster overall.

All players spawn with Heavy Armor equipped at the start of each round. The elimination of the buy phase, ability usage, and objective-based play means every round is decided entirely by aim, positioning, and gunfight decision-making.

How to Queue Into Skirmish 2v2

Skirmish 2v2 is available as a matchmaking queue for a limited time, meaning players can find it in the standard modes list rather than needing to set up a custom lobby. Players can queue solo and be matched with a random partner, or they can enter as a pre-made duo. The mode does not require a full team of five and is designed specifically around the two-player format.

Maps in Skirmish 2v2

Matches in Skirmish 2v2 take place on compact, purpose-built maps rather than the standard Valorant map pool. Three maps are randomly selected for each match. These maps are smaller in size than the main game’s arenas and are built specifically for fast, close-range engagements. The tight layouts mean encounters happen quickly, and there is very little downtime between rounds.

The three dedicated Skirmish maps are Skirmish A, Skirmish B, and Skirmish C. Skirmish A features a tight central corridor with side angles, making it well suited to 1v1 and 2v2 play. Skirmish B is slightly larger and includes elevation changes and corners that allow for more varied approaches. Skirmish C rounds out the pool as another compact arena built for constant action.

Why Riot Games Added Skirmish to Matchmaking

Skirmish originally launched as a custom game option in Valorant Patch 11.07. At that time, it supported 1v1, 2v2, 3v3, 4v4, and 5v5 formats but was only accessible through private custom lobbies and was not available through matchmaking. With Patch 12.03, Riot has brought the 2v2 version of the mode into the standard matchmaking queue as a limited-time offering, making it accessible to any player without the need to organise a custom game.

The mode is positioned as a way for players to sharpen their aim and mechanical skills outside of the pressure of ranked play. Because agent abilities are removed entirely, Skirmish isolates gunplay as the only variable in a match outcome.

How Skirmish 2v2 Differs From Deathmatch

Valorant already has a Deathmatch mode designed for warmup and practice, but Skirmish 2v2 functions differently in several key ways. Deathmatch is free-for-all and does not use a round-based format. Skirmish keeps the round structure that defines Valorant as a game, meaning players must win individual rounds rather than simply accumulate a kill count. This makes Skirmish feel more like a stripped-down version of a competitive match rather than a casual warmup tool.

The 2v2 format also adds a small team dynamic that Deathmatch does not have, requiring some coordination with a partner even in a simplified ruleset.

Is Skirmish 2v2 a Permanent Mode?

As of Patch 12.03, Skirmish 2v2 in matchmaking is listed as a limited-time mode. Riot Games has not confirmed a specific end date for its availability or whether it will be added permanently to the game’s mode rotation. Players who want to try the mode should do so while it remains active in the matchmaking queue.

Custom game Skirmish in various formats remains available to players regardless of the limited-time matchmaking queue status.

Gekko Gets Buffed in Valorant Patch 12.03: Reclaim Timer Extended and Mosh Pit Now Reclaimable

Pranav Nalawade
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Gekko Gets Buffed in Valorant Patch 12.03: Reclaim Timer Extended and Mosh Pit Now Reclaimable

Riot Games has delivered a direct buff to Initiator agent Gekko as part of Valorant Patch 12.03, released on February 17, 2026. The changes target Gekko’s Reclaim mechanic, which allows him to recover his creature companions after deploying them. Two specific adjustments have been made: the reclaim window has been extended, and Mosh Pit has been made reclaimable for the first time.

What Changed for Gekko in Patch 12.03

Riot Games has confirmed two changes to Gekko in this patch. First, the reclaim timer for his Globules has been increased from 15 seconds to 20 seconds. This gives Gekko players a larger window to retrieve his creature companions after they have been deployed and expired back into a dormant Globule state.

Second, and more significantly, Mosh Pit is now reclaimable. Previously, once Gekko threw Mosh into an area to deal damage and detonate, the ability was consumed entirely. With this change, players now have the option to reclaim Mosh Pit as part of their in-round Reclaim cycle, in line with how his other creatures function.

Riot’s stated reasoning for both changes is to create more opportunities for players to actively engage with the Reclaim ability and to make Gekko stronger overall.

Gekko is unique among Valorant agents in that his abilities do not simply disappear after use. When his creatures including Wingman, Dizzy, and Thrash finish their actions, they revert into a dormant Globule on the ground. Gekko can then interact with that Globule to reclaim it, which grants another charge of that ability after a short cooldown. This reclaim-based design is the core identity of the agent, and the changes in Patch 12.03 are built around making that system more rewarding and more accessible to use in live match situations.

How the Reclaim Timer Change Affects Gameplay

The previous 15-second reclaim window could be difficult to use in fast-paced rounds. By the time a fight resolved and it was safe to retrieve a Globule, the timer had sometimes already expired. The new 20-second window gives players an additional five seconds to reach the location of a dormant creature and reclaim it. This makes the ability more practical to use in situations where a player cannot immediately return to the spot where their creature landed.

gekko valorant

Mosh Pit is Gekko’s basic ability, a grenade-style tool where he throws Mosh into a location. Mosh then spreads across a large area, dealing continuous damage before detonating in an explosion. Prior to Patch 12.03, Mosh Pit was the only one of Gekko’s creature abilities that could not be reclaimed after use, making it a fully expendable one-time tool. Bringing it in line with the reclaim system adds a new layer to how Gekko players can approach their ability economy across a match.

Gekko is classified as an Initiator in Valorant, a role focused on gathering information and creating opportunities for teammates to push into a site. His creatures allow him to clear corners, plant or defuse the Spike through Wingman, and control space with Mosh Pit’s area denial. The Patch 12.03 buffs directly strengthen how efficiently Gekko can cycle through his abilities over the course of a match, which could increase his viability in both ranked and competitive play.

Riot Games has not released specific pick rate data alongside the patch notes, and no further agent changes beyond the Reclaim timer and Mosh Pit reclaim addition were listed for Gekko in this update.

Valorant Patch Notes 12.03: Skirmish LTM, Gekko Changes, Masters Santiago Pick’Ems, and More

Yash More
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Valorant Patch Notes 12.03: Skirmish LTM, Gekko Changes, Masters Santiago Pick’Ems, and More

Riot Games has released Valorant Patch 12.03 on February 17, 2026. The update arrives as VCT 2026 Kickoff events wrap up around the world and the game begins gearing up for Masters Santiago. This patch brings a new limited-time mode, changes to Gekko, updates to the All Random One Site mode, new agent voice lines, and the return of Pick’Ems ahead of the first Masters event of the 2026 season.

Skirmish Is Now Live as a Matchmaking Limited-Time Mode

The headline addition in Patch 12.03 is Skirmish, a 2v2 limited-time mode that had previously only been available in custom games. It is now accessible through standard matchmaking.

Skirmish removes agent abilities entirely, focusing all gameplay on gunplay and individual mechanics. The mode follows a first-to-10-rounds format, and players have access to the full weapon selection every round without an economy system in play. There is no agent select screen, which makes finding and entering matches faster than usual. Three maps are randomly chosen for each match, though the specific maps included in the pool were not specified at the time the patch launched.

Players can solo queue into Skirmish and be paired with a random partner, or they can queue as a duo.

All Random One Site Gets Updated Stages and Loadouts

The All Random One Site mode, also known as AROS, returns alongside Skirmish in Patch 12.03. This update to AROS targets Stages and Loadouts. Weapons have been added to several stages, and some existing weapon options have been buffed. The changes are aimed at making gun loadouts feel more manageable within the otherwise chaotic nature of the mode.

Gekko Receives Reclaim Adjustments

Patch 12.03 brings notable changes to Initiator agent Gekko, specifically targeting his Reclaim mechanic. The timer players have to reclaim Globules has been extended from 15 seconds to 20 seconds. In addition, Mosh Pit is now reclaimable, which was not previously the case. Riot Games stated that these changes are intended to create more opportunities for players to engage with the reclaim system and to make Gekko stronger overall.

New Voice Lines Added for Viper, Omen, and Vyse

On the content side, Patch 12.03 adds new voice lines for three agents: Viper, Omen, and Vyse. The new lines for Viper include conversation exchanges with both Omen and Vyse specifically.

Audio Occlusion Update and Replay Improvements

The patch also includes a number of quality-of-life updates. Audio occlusion now responds to map doorways being opened, closed, or destroyed, which affects how sound travels during a match. Players using the replay feature now have access to a setting that allows them to skip spectating dead players during playback.

Pick’Ems Return for Masters Santiago 2026

Pick’Ems are back in Valorant ahead of Masters Santiago, the first Masters tournament of VCT 2026. The tournament itself begins on February 28, and predictions for the Swiss Stage will be available starting February 19.

For the Swiss Stage portion of Pick’Ems, players are asked to predict which teams will advance from the eight-team Swiss Groups. A bonus points option is available for players who correctly predict a team advancing with a perfect 2-0 record. Rewards are available based on Pick’Ems performance, and every player who participates earns an exclusive title regardless of how their predictions fare.

Player Stats Now Visible on the Esports Hub

For players who follow the competitive scene closely, player stats are now displayed on the Esports Hub Teams page. This gives players access to stats directly within the game without needing to visit external tracking sites.

MFA Now Required in APAC for Competitive Queue

Following the rollout of Riot Mobile multi-factor authentication requirements in other regions in earlier patches, the APAC region is now subject to the same rules in Patch 12.03. Accounts flagged for sharing and all players ranked Ascendant and above must enable Riot Mobile MFA to access the Competitive queue. Other game modes are not affected by this requirement. The change is part of Riot’s ongoing effort to reduce account sharing and smurfing in ranked play. Players who want a full recap of what changed in the previous update can refer to the Valorant Patch 12.02 notes covering Harbor buffs and Reyna nerfs, while those looking at the broader picture of how Season 2026 began can revisit the Valorant 12.00 patch breakdown for full context on the changes that set the competitive meta heading into this year.

Steam Deck Out of Stock Due to RAM and Memory Shortages, Valve Confirms

Satyam Kumar
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Steam Deck Out of Stock Due to RAM and Memory Shortages, Valve Confirms

Valve has confirmed that the Steam Deck is out of stock in the United States due to ongoing memory and storage shortages. All three models listed on the Steam store are currently greyed out and unavailable for purchase, leaving buyers unable to secure one of the most popular gaming handhelds on the market.

A notice now displayed on the Steam store page reads: “Steam Deck OLED may be out-of-stock intermittently in some regions due to memory and storage shortages. Steam Deck LCD 256GB is no longer in production, and once sold out, will no longer be available.”

All Steam Deck Models Are Currently Unavailable in the US

The Steam Deck OLED comes in two configurations: a 512GB model and a 1TB model. Both are currently listed as out of stock on Valve’s US storefront. The older 256GB Steam Deck LCD was already discontinued in late 2025, so its disappearance from shelves is not a surprise. However, both OLED versions going simultaneously unavailable in a major market is a more unusual development.

Steam Deck product selection page showing three models — 256GB LCD, 512GB OLED ($549), and 1TB OLED ($649) — all currently out of stock. A note at the bottom states the OLED may be out of stock intermittently due to memory and storage shortages, and the LCD 256GB is no longer in production.

Refurbished Steam Deck units are also no longer available on the United States site. Stock in the US had remained stable throughout the second half of 2025 and into early January 2026, before experiencing a sharp and sudden drop in February.

The Steam Deck has also been reported as sold out in Japan, though the Japanese store page has pointed to a possible restock in late February.

AI Demand for Memory Chips Is the Core Problem

The cause of the shortage traces back to the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence data centers, which have been consuming a disproportionately large share of global memory chip production. According to reports, data centers are expected to consume around 70 percent of all memory chips produced in 2026.

The Steam Deck OLED uses 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM, a type of memory that has seen dramatic price increases as AI-driven demand continues to push costs higher. SSD prices have also been rising, compounding the issue for manufacturers like Valve that rely on both components to build their devices.

RAM prices have been climbing since the final quarter of 2025, and analysts have warned that the situation is unlikely to improve in the short term. The broader impact of AI-driven RAM costs on gaming and esports hardware has been widely documented as one of the most disruptive cost pressures heading into 2026.

Valve’s Upcoming Hardware Is Also Affected

The RAM shortage is not only affecting the Steam Deck. Valve had been preparing to launch the Steam Machine, a mini PC aimed at console-style PC gaming, during the first quarter of 2026. The company has since been forced to delay that release and has also had to put off revealing the pricing for both the Steam Machine and the Steam Frame VR headset. A new controller was also listed among the affected upcoming products.

Valve previously stated that the Steam Machine’s release date and pricing are directly impacted by rapidly increasing memory and storage costs.

The Broader Gaming Industry Is Feeling the Pressure

The Steam Deck is far from the only piece of gaming hardware caught in this situation. PC hardware maker Framework announced in January 2026 that it was raising the price of its Framework Desktop by as much as $460, directly citing the rising cost of RAM.

Apple has also acknowledged the memory shortage, confirming it is affecting supply. Mac Studio units with 512GB of Unified Memory are reportedly on backorder for up to six weeks. Even Sony has weighed in, stating that it intends to minimize the impact of ongoing RAM shortages on the PS5, though it stopped short of ruling out a price increase entirely.

Nintendo is also said to be considering price hikes for the Switch 2, while reports suggest the PS6 may not arrive until as late as 2029 partly due to component challenges. Nvidia, meanwhile, has reportedly shut down production of a new gaming GPU to redirect focus toward AI data centers.

Scalper Concerns Begin to Surface

As the Steam Deck shortage continues, concerns about price gouging have started to emerge within the gaming community. Shortly after units disappeared from Valve’s official store, one Steam Deck appeared on Newegg listed at $100 above the standard retail price, though it quickly sold through. Gamers are drawing comparisons to the GPU shortage period during the pandemic years, when graphics card prices on the secondary market soared well above their original price tags.

Will the Steam Deck Come Back at the Same Price?

There is currently no confirmed restock date for the Steam Deck OLED in the United States. Valve has not stated whether the handheld will return at its original price or whether a price increase is being considered. RAM prices are projected to continue rising, which puts further pressure on Valve’s ability to maintain the current retail cost.

The Steam Deck OLED remains available in some other regions, including the UK and Australia. However, with the LCD model now permanently discontinued, the OLED versions are the only new Steam Deck options still available globally, making restocks critical for anyone looking to buy one. Players waiting on the situation may also want to keep an eye on Steam Deck 2 developments, as Valve’s next-generation handheld plans could be further shaped by how the current memory shortage resolves.

Rainbow Six Mobile Requirements 2026: Android and iOS

Hoax
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Rainbow Six Mobile Requirements 2026: Android and iOS

Ubisoft’s tactical shooter, Rainbow Six Mobile, is now available in select regions ahead of its global launch. Before downloading, you need to verify that your device meets the Rainbow Six Mobile requirements to ensure smooth 5v5 gameplay. This guide covers the exact specifications, storage needs, and regional availability based on official Ubisoft documentation.

Rainbow Six Mobile Android Device Requirements

To run Rainbow Six Mobile on Android, your device must have at least 4GB of RAM and run Android 9 or higher. Ubisoft has tested the game on specific entry-level and mid-range devices during the soft launch phase. Compatible devices include the Samsung Galaxy A05, Oppo A15, Samsung Galaxy S8, and Redmi Note 13.

While these represent the minimum threshold, performance varies based on your chipset. Devices running Qualcomm Snapdragon processors demonstrate stable performance, particularly models equivalent to or newer than the Samsung Galaxy S10. Older devices that meet the 4GB RAM minimum may still experience frame drops during intensive destruction sequences or 5v5 firefights.

Rainbow Six Mobile iOS Device Requirements

For iPhone and iPad users, Rainbow Six Mobile requires an A12 Bionic chip or newer. This translates to iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, or iPhone XR as the baseline compatible devices. iPad compatibility extends to the iPad Air (3rd generation), iPad (8th generation), and iPad Mini (5th generation).

Despite meeting the App Store download criteria, certain devices that technically support the app may struggle with performance. Ubisoft specifically notes that iPhone XR, iPhone SE (2nd generation), iPad Air (3rd generation), iPad Mini (5th generation), iPad (8th generation), and iPad (9th generation) users may encounter compatibility issues despite having access to the download.

Storage and Internet Requirements

The Rainbow Six Mobile requires approximately 3.27 GB of free storage space. After installation, the game downloads an additional package of less than 300 MB before you can access multiplayer matches. You cannot play Rainbow Six Mobile offline, a persistent internet connection via 4G, 5G, or WiFi is mandatory for all game modes.

Current Availability and Global Launch

As of late 2025, Rainbow Six Mobile remains in soft launch status. The game is currently accessible in Canada, Mexico, France, Poland, and Latin American countries. Players outside these regions must wait for the worldwide release scheduled for February 23, 2026. The Latin America release occurred on July 15, 2025, serving as the final testing phase before global deployment.

Before attempting to download from Google Play or the App Store, verify your device specifications through your settings menu. Confirm you have 4GB RAM, Android 9+ (for Android), or A12 chip/iOS 14.4+ (for iOS). Ensure you have at least 4GB of free storage to accommodate the initial download and subsequent updates.

Rainbow Six Mobile brings the full tactical shooter experience to mobile, but it demands specific hardware capabilities. Meeting these minimum Rainbow Six Mobile requirements ensures you can participate in ranked matches and operator-based combat without technical interruptions.

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