Riot reveals a new VALORANT gun, the Warden rifle

VALORANT is bringing a new rifle to its arsenal of weapons, expanding the available options with a distinct long-range choice and offering players a new tactical option. The Vandal vs. Phantom debate will face a new contender as the Warden enters the weapon pool.

What to know about the Warden

Here’s everything you need to know about the new Warden rifle. It will cost 2,900 credits, putting it on the same price tier as the Vandal and Phantom. Unlike the other rifles in the game, the Warden features a built-in scope.

• Weapon Class: Rifle
• Price: 2,900 credits
• Projectile type: Bullet
• Attachments: Scope (2x magnification)
• Bullets per Magazine: 18
• Damage per Bullet: 50 at all ranges (200 headshot, 42 leg)
• Fire Rate: 6.5
• Ammo Reserve: 36
• Reload Timing: 2.5
• Wall Penetration: Medium
• Equip Timing: Normal 1.10, Fast 0.6, Instant 0.2

The Warden will be released in game on September 22, 2026.

Why now?

One of the reasons Riot Games is introducing the Warden now is to expand how players master mechanical gunplay and strategic planning in the game.

While we love the ongoing Phantom vs. Vandal debate on full buy rounds, we thought there was room to satisfy more playstyles and provide more optionality. The Warden shakes things up with a unique long-range power profile while maintaining the versatility you’d expect from a Rifle. It also provides a strong option for players who like to use their ADS (aim down sights) to hold longer sight lines with best-in-class first shot accuracy.

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Featured Image by Riot Games