Unfortunately, uninstalling VALORANT isn’t possible through the Riot Client. That would make things too easy. Additionally, if you find VALORANT in your programs list and just click uninstall, you’ll be faced with an error message.
It can take a bit of doing, but if you’re wondering how to uninstall VALORANT, you’re in the right place.
How to uninstall VALORANT on Windows
To uninstall VALORANT, you’ll need to uninstall the anti-cheat software ‘Vanguard’ using your system tray first. Once that is done, you’ll be able to uninstall VALORANT using the same method.
Below, you’ll find step-by-step instructions for each part of the uninstall process, including screenshots.
1) Disable Vanguard
Firstly, you’ll have to uninstall Vanguard, the anti-cheat system created by Riot Games. You can close Vanguard by opening your system tray—found on the bottom right-hand side of your desktop—right-clicking on the red Vanguard icon and selecting exit.
A message will pop up at this point asking if you want to “turn off” Vanguard. Click Yes.
2) Uninstall Vanguard and VALORANT
When it’s closed, you’ll be able to uninstall both Vanguard and VALORANT as normal. You can do this by pressing the Windows Key or clicking the Windows icon on your taskbar, typing “Add or remove programs” in the search bar, and pressing enter.
From there, scroll down to “Riot Vanguard,” right-click, and uninstall. Finish the uninstall process.
Finally, uninstall VALORANT using the same method. Finish the uninstall process. Once VALORANT is uninstalled completely, you can uninstall the Riot client if you feel like you’re completely done with Riot Games in general.
How to reinstall VALORANT if you change your mind
VALORANT is a game with a meta that changes frequently, and it’s populated by players that can either make or ruin your entire day. It’s understandable if you’d like to take a step back or quit.
VALORANT, and in particular ranked play, isn’t for everyone. To win consistently, you have to get on the grind, hit up deathmatch and the range, and practice your abilities in custom matches. Even if you’ve got the lineups and your aim is hot one day, you may get stuck with toxic or unhelpful players. Unfortunately, that’s the nature of the game.
Of course, you can always lessen the chances of getting poor teammates by queuing up with friends. If you’re looking for new friends to play with, check out these VALORANT LFG Discord Servers.
Another way to freshen up your VALORANT experience is by switching up your agent of choice. Changing your agent can change your mentality completely and help you get back in the saddle.
However, if neither of these options helps you enjoy the game more, deleting VALORANT could be the right choice for you. It’s not like you’ll lose anything! All the content you’ve acquired so far will be waiting for you if you ever choose to return.
