TL;DR
- CS:GO allows players to equip different weapon skins for Counter-Terrorist and Terrorist sides within the same match
- Valorant players want similar functionality to showcase more of their growing skin collections
- Side-specific skins would enhance gameplay variety and potentially increase cosmetic purchases
- Riot’s rapid skin release schedule makes this feature increasingly valuable for players
- While unlikely to copy CS:GO exactly, Riot may develop a similar custom inventory system

The Valorant community is actively looking toward Counter-Strike: Global Offensive for inspiration on improving weapon skin functionality. Many players believe Riot Games should consider implementing CS:GO’s innovative side-specific skin system to enhance the cosmetic experience.
Valorant enthusiasts consistently praise Riot’s animated skin designs but feel limited by the current inventory constraints. Previously, players requested custom loadouts allowing multiple skins for identical weapons across different matches. CS:GO gamers have enjoyed comparable functionality for years, enabling seamless rotation between various cosmetic options.
Given Riot’s aggressive release schedule for in-game cosmetics, adopting an attacker/defender skin feature similar to CS:GO’s approach appears increasingly logical. While the community has advocated for custom inventories, a round-based arsenal system offers more practical advantages. Here’s an in-depth look at how CS:GO’s mechanism operates.
Why Valorant Players Are Demanding CS:GO’s Side-Specific Skin Feature

Valve has introduced numerous premium skins over the years, many carrying substantial price points. Despite these costs, CS:GO players continue investing significantly in weapon cosmetics. This willingness stems partly from the enhanced utility these skins provide within the game’s ecosystem.
CS:GO’s system delivers exceptional value through multiple avenues. Players can resell weapons after usage periods, creating a dynamic marketplace. More importantly, they can equip distinct skins for the same firearm during single matches. This flexibility dramatically increases cosmetic utilization opportunities.
The implementation is remarkably straightforward. Gamers simply select “replace for CT/T” on preferred skins while in-game, instantly enabling dual cosmetic displays. Valorant players now seek comparable functionality, especially considering Riot has launched over 25 skin bundles since the game’s debut. When including Battle Pass exclusives and limited editions, the demand becomes completely understandable given the extensive cosmetic library available.
A comparable inventory framework would permit Valorant users to assign different skins for attacking and defending phases. When sides switch between rounds, your defensive Vandal skin automatically transitions to an offensive variant. This creates opportunities to showcase entirely different aesthetic themes throughout matches.
The advantages extend beyond player satisfaction to business benefits for Riot. As gamers begin utilizing more skins during gameplay, they may develop increased motivation to purchase additional cosmetics. This psychological effect could significantly boost engagement with the monetization system.
From a strategic perspective, side-specific skins would address several player pain points. Currently, expensive skin purchases feel underutilized when players can only display one option per weapon. Enhanced rotation capabilities would justify premium purchases while encouraging collection diversity. Players often hesitate to buy new skins when their favorites remain unused for extended periods.
Although this represents an excellent quality-of-life improvement, Riot will probably avoid directly copying CS:GO’s implementation. However, Valorant’s development team maintains strong community responsiveness and has repeatedly acknowledged custom inventory requests. Consequently, players shouldn’t be surprised if Riot introduces a similar system facilitating easier skin showcasing.
Potential implementation approaches could include round-based auto-rotation, map-specific loadouts, or manual in-game switching mechanisms. Each method presents unique advantages and technical considerations that Riot would need to evaluate carefully.
The community’s persistent advocacy suggests this feature aligns with player priorities. As Valorant’s cosmetic ecosystem continues expanding, inventory management solutions will become increasingly necessary. Players seeking to optimize their current skin usage should consult our Weapons Unlock guide for strategic approaches to cosmetic acquisition.
For those interested in broader gameplay optimization, our Complete Guide offers comprehensive strategies. Additionally, understanding proper Class Guide selection can enhance overall match performance alongside cosmetic customization.
Action Checklist
- Document your current skin collection and identify underutilized cosmetics
- Research CS:GO’s CT/T system to understand potential implementation models
- Provide constructive feedback to Riot through official channels about side-specific skin desires
- Experiment with manual skin switching between matches to simulate the experience
- Monitor Valorant patch notes and developer updates for inventory system changes
No reproduction without permission:Game Guides Online » Valorant should copy this great skin feature from CSGO How Valorant could benefit from CS:GO's side-specific skin system and why players want this feature
