What does the Vulnerable effect do in VALORANT?

Valorant

August 23, 2024

Tarun Sayal

VALORANT has over 19 different status effects and one of them in particular is known as Vulnerable. Unfortunately, the game doesn’t do a good job of explaining them which is why many players, especially beginners, get confused during the match and lose crucial battles. If you’re also baffled by the Vulnerable status effect in VALORANT, then here’s everything you need to know about it.

VALORANT Vulnerable effect explained

Image Credits: Riot Games

In VALORANT, the Vulnerable status effect is a serious game-changer because it makes a player take double damage from all sources. When you’re hit with Vulnerable, every bullet explosion or ability that touches you will hurt twice as much. This makes it one of the most dangerous debuffs in the game as it can quickly turn the tide of a fight—especially when even a little extra damage could mean the difference between staying in the game or getting eliminated.

How do you get Vulnerable in VALORANT?

Image Credits: Esports.net

Several agents in VALORANT can inflict the Vulnerable status on enemies with their abilities:

Killjoy – Nanoswarm: Killjoy’s Nanoswarm grenades can apply the Vulnerable effect to anyone caught in the blast. This can be especially deadly in post-plant situations where opponents either have to move out of cover or risk-taking double damage.
Viper – Snake Bite: Viper’s Snake Bite is one of the most reliable ways to apply Vulnerable. Her acid pool not only damages but also doubles the damage taken by any player standing in it. This can be devastating especially when combined with her other area-denial abilities that force opponents into tough spots.

Now, you know how the Vulnerable effect can impact your gameplay. But you’re still probably unaware of how to deal with it. If you ask us, the best way to tackle vulnerability is by taking cover until it the effect ends. When you’re in the Vulnerable condition, two Phantom bullets on the body are enough to completely drain your health, which might cost you the match-winning round.

On average, this effect lasts around 7 seconds. So, during this time frame, find a safe spot and chill for a while until it’s gone. But if you’re already in the middle of the fight and hit by the Killjoy’s Nanoswarm or Viper’s Snakebite, then it’s best to teleport, dash, or dismiss if you’re playing Chamber, Jett or Reyna, respectively.