Classic’s right-click finally nerfed in Valorant patch 3.09

Riot Games has finally addressed one of Valorant’s most persistent balancing issues in patch 3.09, targeting the Classic pistol’s notoriously overpowered alternate fire mode. After extensive community feedback highlighted the weapon’s disproportionate effectiveness, developers implemented substantial accuracy reductions that fundamentally change its combat viability.

Since Valorant’s launch in 2020, weapon balancing has been an ongoing process, with regular adjustments to ensure fair competitive play. However, the Classic remained largely untouched despite player concerns about its right-click spam potential in various combat scenarios.

Following a full year of player complaints about the Classic’s balance, Riot has acknowledged the issue and delivered meaningful changes. The free starting weapon now receives significant accuracy penalties when firing while moving, specifically designed to limit its effectiveness to extremely close-range engagements.

“We’ve deliberately reduced the Classic’s accuracy during jumping, running, and walking to narrow its optimal use case to point-blank encounters,” explained Jeff Landa, communications associate at Riot Games. This adjustment represents a fundamental shift in how players will approach pistol rounds and eco situations.

Competitive players had identified the Classic as particularly problematic in close to mid-range fights when combined with jumping techniques. The weapon consistently delivered damage output that exceeded expectations for a free firearm, creating economic imbalances where players could save credits for utility and armor while still competing effectively against upgraded sidearms.

The patch 3.09 changes introduce substantial accuracy penalties that scale with movement intensity. These modifications ensure the Classic performs as intended—a basic sidearm for stationary or minimal movement scenarios rather than a versatile combat tool.

• Walking firing error increased from 0.05 to 0.6 (total error rises to 2.5 from 1.95 previously)
• Running firing error significantly raised from 0.2 to 1.3 (total error jumps to 3.2 from 2.1)
• Jumping firing error boosted from 1.1 to 2.1 (total error escalates to 4.0 from 3.0)

These technical adjustments create a clear accuracy hierarchy where stationary firing remains relatively precise, but any movement introduces substantial penalties. The Classic now properly reflects its role as an entry-level weapon, forcing players to make deliberate economic decisions about pistol upgrades.

High-ranked competitors had long expressed frustration with the Classic’s right-click dominance, while lower-skill players struggled against opponents utilizing strafing and spraying techniques. The revised accuracy profile enables more consistent counterplay and reduces frustration across skill levels.

Pro Tip: After these changes, always prioritize standing still when using the Classic’s alternate fire. The accuracy difference between stationary and moving shots is now substantial enough to determine fight outcomes.

Fracture map updates coming in Valorant patch 3.09

Fracture continues to receive polish and adjustments following its introduction, with patch 3.09 delivering four strategic modifications that enhance competitive integrity. These changes address specific pain points identified by both professional players and the broader community.

• B Arcade attacker barrier repositioned toward Attacker Side Bridge, granting defenders additional coverage options and reducing early round pressure.
• Defender barrier at A Rope relocated to the rope tops, providing sentinel agents improved setup opportunities and early information gathering.
• A Hall orb relocated to create more balanced engagement opportunities, reducing the map’s attacker-sided characteristics.
• Additional cover introduced in attacker spawn eliminates the extended sightline from Hall entrance to B Main, countering aggressive defender flanking strategies.

These adjustments represent Riot’s ongoing commitment to map balance and competitive fairness. Each change targets specific strategic imbalances while maintaining Fracture’s unique H-shaped layout and engagement dynamics.

Common Mistake: Many players continue using pre-patch setups on Fracture. Adapt your defensive positions to leverage the new barrier placements for maximum effectiveness.

The combined Classic nerf and Fracture adjustments create significant meta shifts that competitive players must understand. The Classic’s reduced mobility accuracy forces more deliberate economic planning, while the map changes reward adaptive defensive strategies.

Economic Strategy Update: With the Classic less reliable for aggressive plays, investing in upgraded pistols like the Ghost or Sheriff becomes more valuable during eco rounds. This change promotes healthier economic decision-making throughout matches.

Advanced Optimization: High-level players should now focus on crosshair placement and burst firing techniques with the Classic rather than relying on movement-based spam.

The Fracture modifications particularly benefit methodical, setup-oriented playstyles. Sentinel agents like Killjoy and Cypher gain additional value due to the new defensive barrier placements and reduced early flanking opportunities.

Time Investment: Expect to spend 5-10 matches adapting to the new Classic accuracy profile. The muscle memory adjustment period varies by player, but consistent practice accelerates adaptation.

These changes demonstrate Riot’s data-driven approach to game balance, addressing both weapon mechanics and map design to create a more competitive environment. Players who quickly internalize these changes will gain immediate competitive advantages.

No reproduction without permission：Game Guides Online » Classic’s right-click finally nerfed in Valorant patch 3.09 Valorant patch 3.09 delivers crucial Classic pistol nerfs and strategic Fracture map improvements for competitive play