Master Valorant's Most Underrated Agents with These Pro Tips
In the competitive world of Valorant, certain agents are often overlooked despite their potential to turn the tide in any match. Mastering these underrated agents can give players a significant advantage, especially in ranked play where unconventional strategies can catch opponents off guard. Here’s a deep dive into some of Valorant’s most underrated agents and how to use them to their full potential.
1. Deadlock
Deadlock is a Sentinel who excels in controlling tight spaces and delaying enemy advances. Despite her potential, she is often overshadowed by more popular Sentinels like Sage and Killjoy. Deadlock’s abilities are best utilized on maps like Bind and Split, where narrow lanes make it easier to trap enemies.
Pro Tip: Pair Deadlock with agents who have damaging utilities, such as Brimstone or Raze. For example, use her GravNet to slow enemies, then follow up with Raze’s Paint Shells for maximum damage.
2. Gekko
Gekko is an Initiator with unique utility that can change the dynamics of a round. His Wingman ability, which plants or defuses the spike, is highly valuable, yet Gekko remains underused in many compositions. Gekko shines on all maps due to his versatility in both attacking and defending.
Pro Tip: Use Wingman to plant the spike while you and your team focus on securing the site, forcing the enemy to split their attention between the spike and defending against your assault.
3. Harbor
Harbor, a Controller, brings a unique set of abilities to the table, including the only smoke that can shield from bullets. Despite this, he is often ignored in favor of other Controllers like Viper. Harbor's strength lies in his ability to disrupt enemy sightlines and create safe passages for his team.
Pro Tip: Harbor is particularly effective on maps like Lotus, where his smokes can cover long sightlines, allowing for safer rotations and spike plants. Combine his Cascade with a teammate’s flash to push through enemy defenses.
4. Kay/O
Kay/O is another underrated Initiator who excels at disabling enemy abilities. His ability to suppress opponents with his Zero/Point makes him a valuable asset, especially against teams that rely heavily on their utilities.
Pro Tip: Use Kay/O’s suppression ability to initiate pushes, as it forces the enemy to fight without their abilities. Follow up with his flashes to blind enemies and create opportunities for your team to secure kills.
5. Phoenix
Phoenix is often overlooked due to his simple kit, but when used correctly, he can be a powerhouse in the right hands. His ultimate, Run It Back, allows for aggressive plays without the risk of losing a round.
Pro Tip: Focus on farming ultimate orbs on attack, especially on maps like Ascent, to use Run It Back multiple times in a half. This can create consistent pressure on the enemy team.
Synergies and Team Compositions
To maximize the potential of these agents, it’s crucial to pair them with the right teammates. For example, Deadlock pairs well with Brimstone, who can capitalize on enemies caught in her utility. Similarly, Gekko’s abilities synergize with agents like Sova and Skye, who can provide the necessary intel and crowd control.
Example Composition: On a map like Lotus, consider running a team with Omen, Viper, Skye, Killjoy, and Raze, where Harbor can replace Omen for a more defensive setup.
Conclusion
Mastering these underrated agents not only enhances your versatility as a player but also introduces fresh strategies that can surprise and overwhelm your opponents. Don’t be afraid to experiment with these agents in different maps and team compositions—they might just become your new go-to picks!
