Updated on April 14, 4:30 p.m. (GMT+8): Improved relevancy.
Valorant is a first-person shooter game that demands strong gameplay skills such as game sense, strategic thinking, and precision aiming.
Refining these fundamental skills can enhance a player’s performance. However, notable Twitch streamer Michael “Shroud” Grzesiek has raised concerns about the use of certain high-tier skins, which he believes may hinder a player’s performance.
The former CS:GO and Valorant pro argued that these skins could cost players crucial rounds by becoming too distracting and impeding their ability to focus, ultimately impacting their overall gameplay.
Shroud unveils his collection of Valorant skins that minimizes distractions
Shroud firmly believes that specific Valorant skin collections, particularly those categorized as premium, ultra, or exclusive, can place players at a disadvantage.
He demonstrated this by trying out the Ruination Phantom. This rifle features a loud equip and reload sound effect, which can mask crucial audio cues in the game.
He went as far as labeling the pricey Valorant bundles and collections as “pay to lose” because of their unique sound and visual effects that can be a hindrance during gameplay.
In his opinion, opting for lower-tier Valorant skins that lack such distractions is a wiser choice for players who want to maintain their focus and edge in the game.
Shroud’s Valorant skin collection
These skins were taken from Shroud’s Valorant collection on November 2022.
Sidearms
- RGX 11Z Pro 2.0 Classic
- Wayfinder Shorty
- RGX 2.0 Frenzy
- Reaver 11Z Pro Ghost
- Crimsonbeast Sheriff
SMGS
- RGX Stinger
- Wasteland Spectre
Shotguns
- Magepunk Bucky
- Crimsonbeast Judge
Rifles
- Endeavor Bulldog
- Reaver Guardian
- ChronoVoid Phantom
- Elderflame Vandal
Machine Guns
- Singularity Ares
- Prime 2.0 Odin
Sniper Rifles
- Crimsonbeast Marshal
- RGX 11Z Pro 2.0 Operator
Melee
- Crimsonbeast Hammer
READ MORE: How to adjust the Valorant user interface: Understand and customize your HUD