VALORANT Mobile crosses 170,000 downloads and $1 million revenue on launch day

VALORANT Mobile has made waves with its exclusive launch in China on August 19th, 2025, achieving over 170,000 downloads on iOS devices in just 24 hours. According to Bloomberg, citing Appfigures data, the tactical FPS title also generated more than $1 million in revenue through in-app purchases on its first day. Considering the data only accounts for iOS devices, the game’s total figures across platforms are likely much higher.

Within hours of release, VALORANT Mobile had already become the most-downloaded app on Apple’s iOS store, while also ranking as the 7th highest-earning game and the 14th highest-grossing app overall. This rapid success positions the game as one of the most successful mobile launches in recent years.

The Power of Anticipation and Market Reach

Part of VALORANT Mobile’s instant success can be attributed to its overwhelming pre-registration phase, which saw over 70 million sign-ups in China alone, making it one of the largest in the nation’s gaming history. This reflects Riot and Tencent’s decision to prioritize China, the world’s largest mobile gaming market, which generated $42.3 billion in revenue in 2023.

To further amplify the launch, Riot also collaborated with Canadian rapper BBNO$ on a themed music video, creating hype and boosting visibility among younger audiences.

Laying the Foundation for Esports

Beyond its commercial success, VALORANT Mobile is set to become a driving force in mobile esports. Riot and Tencent’s joint venture, TJ Sports, has committed an investment of ~$200 million over the next three years to develop the competitive ecosystem. The roadmap includes:

• A National Chinese Circuit launching in Q4 2025
• Collegiate and grassroots tournaments
• Partnerships with tech brands like OnePlus to host major events

Unlike VALORANT’s PC version, which gradually expanded esports globally, VALORANT Mobile is prioritizing China as its esports hub before a wider rollout. This strategy emphasizes Tencent’s dominance in the mobile sector and Riot’s ambition to cement the new game as a competitive phenomenon.

Despite the absence of an official worldwide launch date, the game’s performance in China is set to influence its rollout in regions like Southeast Asia and Korea. Industry analysts suggest that while its day-one earnings may not outpace titles like Dungeon & Fighters Mobile, VALORANT Mobile’s long-term esports and community-driven focus could make it a global leader in mobile FPS gaming.

In Conclusion

The launch of VALORANT Mobile marks a significant milestone for Riot Games and Tencent, blending massive early success with long-term esports investment. With record-breaking pre-registrations, rapid chart dominance, and a $200 million push into competitive play, VALORANT Mobile is not just another mobile shooter, it is potentially the next cornerstone of mobile esports worldwide.

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Featured Image Source: Riot Games/Edited by THESPIKE.GG