Riot Games keeps Valorant fresh by introducing agents that challenge the meta and Clove is no exception. This bold, non-binary Controller from Scotland brings an aggressive twist to a traditionally support-focused role. With abilities that blend post-death influence, mind games, and team disruption, Clove is not just another smokes agent. They're a psychological weapon and they don’t go down easily.
Who Is Clove?
Introduced in Episode 8, Act 2, Clove is Valorant’s first Controller to fight from beyond the grave. Their backstory emphasizes resilience, rebellion, and flair traits that shine through in both their kit and their fearless voice lines.
Clove’s Scottish punk aesthetic, combined with their unique mechanics, makes them one of the most stylish and impactful agents in the game today.
Role: Controller
Traditionally, Controllers like Brimstone or Viper control sightlines and pace with smokes or area denial. Clove flips that on its head by encouraging aggressive positioning, post-death plays, and even clutch scenarios after they die.
They’re a dream pick for duelists who want to support the team, or for Controller mains looking to be more assertive in fights.
Abilities Breakdown
(C) Pick-Me-Up
Absorb the life essence of a fallen enemy to gain a temporary health and speed boost.
Perfect for: chaining multi-kills or escaping after entrying.
(Q) Meddle
A thrown orb that debuffs enemies hit with decay, reducing their max HP temporarily.
Perfect for: softening targets before a push or flushing out defenders.
(E) Ruse (Signature Ability)
Place up to two global-range smokes from anywhere on the map.
Perfect for: classic Controller value blocking sightlines, stalling pushes, or faking site control.
(X) Not Dead Yet (Ultimate Ability)
Upon death, Clove can delay passing into the afterlife. Get a kill or assist within a short time to revive yourself with 50 HP.
Perfect for: clutch rounds, surprise re-engages, and mind games. It’s like a phoenix if the phoenix had smokes.
Clove’s Playstyle: Smart Aggression
Clove encourages a rare blend of playstyles: hyper-aggression with strategic control. Unlike other Controllers, you don’t have to sit back and survive to be useful. You want to die on your own terms—just make sure you take someone with you.
Tips:
Don’t be afraid to take duels use Meddle and Pick-Me-Up to push weakened enemies.
Smoke proactively. You can throw them even after death, so never waste them.
Use the ult wisely communicate with your team and chase cleanup kills after trades.
Clove shakes up Controller gameplay and opens up fresh compositions. They:
Fit well with aggressive comps that need smokes on the go.
Pair beautifully with initiators like Skye or Fade for fast-paced entries.
Offer a forgiving learning curve you get second chances, literally.
Final Thoughts
Clove is the embodiment of defiance—against death, against tradition, and against boring utility bots. Whether you're anchoring a site, leading a push, or getting revenge from the grave, Clove makes every round unpredictable and personal.
If you’re looking for an agent that rewards confidence, creativity, and a little bit of chaos, it’s time to let Clove take center stage.