Media Release:

Get ready to experience VALORANT in a whole new way.

On 10 and 11 October 2026, VALORANT Laneways will take over the Promenade outside Crown in Melbourne, bringing together VALORANT Console, community creativity, and the unmistakable culture of Melbourne’s laneways for a free public pop-up experience.

Part of the official public program for Melbourne International Games Week, and featured within the Games Week DLC lineup, VALORANT Laneways is a celebration of the recent launch of VALORANT on Console in Australia and New Zealand, as well as the community that has helped shape VALORANT over the past five years.

Open from 11AM to 9PM AEDT on both days, fans can drop in, play, connect, and immerse themselves in an experience inspired by the iconic look and feel of Melbourne’s backstreets.

WHAT IS VALORANT LANEWAYS?

Imagine walking through a Melbourne laneway, reimagined through the lens of VALORANT.

Industrial elements, graffiti-inspired sprays, posters, street textures and branded installations come together to create an environment where VALORANT on Console meets the culture of Melbourne. From decorative props to laneway-inspired set designs, every corner is designed to feel like a piece of the city infused with VALORANT style

At its heart, VALORANT Laneways is a community hub. A place where players can meet fellow fans, relax, discover local creators, and get hands-on with VALORANT on Console. A selection of dedicated merchant spaces will welcome local ANZ artists and makers, giving visitors the chance to explore creative works and support local talent across the weekend.

PLAY VALORANT ON CONSOLE

Whether you’re already playing on console or looking to try it for the first time, VALORANT Laneways offers plenty of opportunities to jump into the action.

Fans can take part in VALORANT Console gameplay experiences, including a 2v2 Skirmish format designed for quick, social competition. Gameplay will be showcased on opposing screens within the laneway-inspired play zone, inviting guests to test their skills throughout the day.

PHOTO MOMENTS AND FAN ACTIVITIES

Looking for the perfect photo opportunity?

Fans can stop by the laneway spray wall, featuring a brick laneway-inspired backdrop and sprays that capture the creative spirit of the event. The broader pop-up also features a range of VALORANT-themed visual moments inspired by Melbourne’s street culture and design.

Visitors can also take part in interactive activities and VALORANT-themed skill games throughout the weekend, with opportunities to earn prizes.

A PLACE TO CONNECT

More than anything, VALORANT Laneways is designed as a space for the community to come together.

With seating, shaded areas and room to relax, fans can spend time connecting with other players, watching gameplay, supporting creators, and celebrating the next chapter of VALORANT on Console in Australia and New Zealand.

KEEP THE CELEBRATION GOING

The festivities continue later in the month with watch parties for the VCT Champions Grand Finals on 18 October at Fortress Sydney and Fortress Melbourne from 4PM onwards.

As the pinnacle event of the VALORANT esports calendar, VCT Champions Shanghai will crown the year’s champion, with the winning team taking home USD $1,000,000. Australian fans will also have a local player to cheer for, with Autumn of Global Esports currently competing in the tournament after recently winning the VCT Pacific Stage 2 Finals in a stunning underdog story.

About VALORANT

VALORANT is a free-to-play tactical shooter featuring agents with unique abilities, available on PC, XBOX Series X|S, and PlayStation 5 in Australia & New Zealand

EVENT DETAILS

Event: VALORANT Laneways
Date: 10-11 October 2026
Time: 11AM-9PM AEDT daily
Location: Promenade outside Crown, Melbourne
Entry: Free to attend