Since the launch of Valorant, Riot Games has been vigilant about cheaters. Its Vanguard anti-cheating system allows it to effectively sort out cheaters to prevent toxic behaviors. Issue at the amateur level, cheating is even more problematic at the high level when there are pro players and competitions. As Valorant clearly wants to be an esports game, it must offer a fair and honest gzmign experience.
Last week, heavy accusations against Ardiis were relayed on social networks by ItsGamerDoc. The Latvian player, a former member of the Counter-Strike competitive scene, was accused of ordering a specific cheating program in addition to fixing matches.
Riot Games was quick to react by launching a commission of inquiry. Its tough policy against cheaters, especially in League of Legends, seemed to be having a negative impact on the player's future.
Ardiis had put forward his willingness to collaborate to clear his name when he explained himself on the networks via a Twitlonger. It seems he can now take a breather since he announced on Twitter that he had been cleared of any wrongdoing. If the information is to be taken with a pinch of salt since Riot Games hasn't yet made an official statement, it's still good news for the player.
He himself had admitted that he had gone through difficult times. Periods during which, psychologically unstable and in financial difficulties, he had considered cheating. Those dark times are behind him and he would never have gone through with it.
Valorant's competitive scene isn't yet fully structured. Tournaments are currently limited in size and some like the G2 Invitational mix professional players with influencers. Despite all the external context and despite the accusations against him, Ardiis has managed to make a name for himself on this brand new competitive scene.
While Ardiis was unable to compete in the G2 Invitational — Valorant Ignition Series first stage — due to accusations, he still won enough competitive events to be taken seriously. His success with Mixwell and Scream at the Twitch Rivals was a big hit. Some whispered besides that Mixwell, new captain of G2 could think of him to complete the roster.
If Ardiis played for a while for Fish123, he is now a free agent. He should be able to find a new organisation without too many difficulties.
Valorant Competitive mode was quickly disabled after Patch 1.02 deployment. After a few hours, Riot Games finally announced that ranked games will be available on June 24, 2:00 PM PT.
