Most players pick Valorant Duelists with dreams of top fragging on every map. However, for 99% of Duelist players, the reality is much different. Everyone wants to play Duelist, but few excel at the role. It seems simple—just run in and shoot, right? Easier than using utility to support no-com AI teammates, right? Then why do so many struggle with the Duelist role? Is there a misunderstanding of how to play Duelist correctly? Is aim or mechanics lacking to impact the game at a high level?

Creating Space as a Valorant Duelist

The primary job of a Valorant Duelist is to create space for the team, seek advantages, and secure early picks to ease the team’s path. This role requires individual skill and mechanics. Riot defines the Duelist’s role in the game client similarly, but the key takeaway is making life easier for the team. Many assume that Duelists make the game easier by eliminating the five players on the opposing team each round. In reality, a Duelist often tackles difficult tasks that only their role can accomplish, such as breaking through defensive setups by dashing through choke points without knowledge of enemy positions.

Forcing enemy attention and utility away from the choke point long enough for the team to push through is invaluable—even if it costs the Duelist’s life. Kills in these situations are a bonus. Derke’s (Fnatic’s Duelist) stats on Ascent show that even when he dies first on attack, his team consistently wins the map. The focus should shift from chasing kills to doing the hardest job for the team each round.

Playing With Teammates

The second point Derke makes is about playing with teammates. Pairing with initiators and asking them to set up utility helps make life easier. Valorant has several tools to create an advantage, and the enemy also has utility to push Duelists away. Having a duo or teammate to support with utility can simplify gameplay.

Many Duelists attempt to do everything themselves—flashing, taking corners, and fighting simultaneously. This approach exhausts utility early, leaving no support for the team later in the round. Instead, asking for utility from a teammate like a drone, dart, or flash allows the Duelist to play smarter, not harder.

Maintaining Man Advantages

Derke stresses the importance of maintaining man advantages. Once a team has a 5v4 or 5v3 advantage, the focus should shift away from chasing kills. Duelist players should work with teammates and allow opponents at a disadvantage to make mistakes. Chasing kills often leads to lost rounds when teams give away free kills by being too aggressive.

Staying Unpredictable as a Valorant Duelist

The fifth tip is to be everywhere. Each round should start by thinking about where to go and identifying gaps in the enemy’s setup. Falling into repetitive play patterns like always pushing A or B can limit a Duelist’s impact. Playing unpredictably, especially with an Operator, can generate early kills for the team.

Also, anticipate that the enemy will adapt. It’s crucial to stay one step ahead by changing strategies and positioning to counter their adjustments.