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Are you seeing the error “Something unusual happened, we suggest retrying or restarting” when launching Valorant? You’re not alone. This frustrating issue prevents players from logging into the game, often caused by connection problems, corrupted files, or issues with the Riot Client itself.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll explain why this error happens and give you working solutions to fix it — whether you’re on Windows 10 or 11.

🚨 What Causes the “Something Unusual Happened” Error in Valorant?

This error usually shows up on the Riot Client or during Valorant launch. Here’s what could trigger it:

  • Internet connectivity issues (unstable or restricted network)
  • Riot Client bugs or corrupt cache
  • Conflicts with Windows Firewall or antivirus
  • Outdated or broken Riot Vanguard (Valorant’s anti-cheat)
  • Problems with DNS settings or network adapters

Let’s fix it step-by-step.

🛠️ How to Fix Valorant’s “Something Unusual Happened” Error

✅ 1. Restart Riot Client (Yes, Seriously)

Sometimes the simplest fix works.

  • Fully close Valorant and Riot Client from the system tray (bottom-right corner).
  • Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and end any RiotClientServices.exe or Valorant.exe processes.
  • Relaunch Riot Client.

If that doesn’t work, move on to deeper fixes.

✅ 2. Run Riot Client as Administrator

Permissions matter.

  • Right-click the Riot Client shortcut or .exe file.
  • Click “Run as administrator.”

This gives the game elevated permissions to avoid Windows or antivirus blocks.

✅ 3. Check Your Internet Connection

Valorant is sensitive to unstable or restricted networks.

  • Restart your router.
  • Try switching from Wi-Fi to Ethernet (if possible).
  • Avoid using VPNs or proxies — they can cause Riot’s servers to reject connections.
  • If you’re on a public/shared network, try a different one.

✅ 4. Clear Riot Client Cache

A corrupted cache can cause this exact error.

  • Press Windows + R → type: 
    %localappdata%\Riot Games\
  • Delete the entire Riot Client folder.
  • Relaunch the Riot Client — it will re-download fresh cache files.

✅ 5. Flush DNS and Reset Winsock

Network settings can block Riot’s servers from connecting properly.

  • Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  • Run these commands one at a time: 
    ipconfig /flushdns
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
  • Restart your PC and try again.

✅ 6. Reinstall Riot Vanguard (Anti-Cheat Engine)

Sometimes, Vanguard silently fails to initialize.

To fix it:

  • Press Windows + R → type: 
    appwiz.cpl
  • Uninstall Riot Vanguard from the list.
  • Reboot your PC.
  • Launch Valorant again — it will automatically reinstall Vanguard.

✅ 7. Temporarily Disable Your Antivirus/Firewall

Your antivirus may be blocking Riot’s connections.

  • Disable Windows Defender or any third-party antivirus temporarily.
  • Make sure RiotClientServices.exe, Valorant.exe, and Vanguard.exe are whitelisted.

After testing, remember to re-enable your antivirus for protection.

✅ 8. Reinstall Riot Client and Valorant

If nothing works, reinstalling both the Riot Client and Valorant can clear deeper issues.

Steps:

  1. Uninstall Valorant and Riot Client via Control Panel.
  2. Go to: 
    C:\Riot Games

    Delete any leftover folders.

  3. Download fresh installer from playvalorant.com.
  4. Install the game and restart your PC.

💬 Valorant Error Still Not Fixed?

If the issue persists:

  • Check Riot Games’ status page for server outages.
  • Try running the Riot Repair Tool.
  • Contact Valorant support with your log files.

🧠 Final Tips

  • Always update your graphics drivers and Windows OS.
  • Avoid multitasking with bandwidth-heavy apps while playing.
  • Keep an eye on Valorant updates — bugs like this are often patched in hotfixes.

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