How to Uninstall Valorant in 2025 (Including Vanguard)

3 min read

Uninstalling Valorant involves more than just removing the game. It also involves scrubbing Riot Vanguard, its kernel-level anti-cheat, and fixing annoying errors like TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot conflicts. So, whether you’re reclaiming storage, troubleshooting, or quitting cold turkey, here’s how to remove every trace of Valorant from your PC.

PS: If you’re quitting because of all the trolls in-game, why not pick up a Valorant ranked boost from BoostRoyal? Our top-notch boosters are here to help.

Why Valorant’s Uninstallation Frustrates Players

Valorant leaves behind quite a bit of baggage. Here’s why many players aren’t big fans:

  1. Riot Vanguard: This runs 24/7 at the kernel level (even when the game is closed).
  2. Leftover Files: Registry entries, game folders, and hidden processes can often remain even after uninstalling.
  3. Platform Limitations: While you can now play on PC, Xbox, and PS5, some other gaming consoles were naturally left out.

Step-by-Step Guide: Uninstall Valorant on PC (2025)

1. Remove Valorant via Windows Settings

  • On Windows 11/10: Head to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps.
  • From there, locate Valorant, click the three-dot menu, and select “Uninstall.”

2. Delete Riot Vanguard

  • Same process as above, return to Installed Apps and uninstall Riot Vanguard.
  • Reboot your PC to terminate all kernel processes.

3. Purge Leftover Files

  • Delete these folders manually:
    • C:\Riot Games
    • C:\Program Files\Riot Vanguard
  • This can be done manually, or you can use a free tool like CCleaner to wipe registry entries.

Which Valorant Uninstall Method is Best?

Method

Tools Needed

Remove Vanguard?

Basic Uninstall

Windows Settings

No

Manual Cleanup

File Explorer + CCleaner

Yes

Nuclear Option

Revo Uninstaller

Yes

Troubleshooting Common Valorant Uninstall Errors

“Critical Error Occurred” (TPM 2.0/Secure Boot)

For this one, you’ll need to update your BIOS/UEFI settings and enable TPM 2.0. Plenty of great Microsoft Community threads are out there for specific, detailed fixes.

“Vanguard Won’t Uninstall”:

Use the Command Prompt as Admin:

  • Copy and enter the below prompts: “sc delete vgc” and  “sc delete gk.”

“Game Files Stuck”

Boot into Safe Mode and delete the folders manually.

Reinstalling Valorant Later? Here’s What to Know

No problem! Your Valorant account (skins, rank, progress) is stored on Riot’s servers, and reinstalling is super simple:

  1. Download the Valorant installer and load it up. The installer will download and install Valorant and Riot Vanguard simultaneously.
  2. Log in; your data remains intact.

FAQ: Uninstalling Valorant in 2025


Q: Will uninstalling Valorant affect my progress?

A: No, your account is kept on the Valorant servers, so uninstalling will not delete your account, agents, or skins.

Q: How do I fix Vanguard Secure Boot errors?

A: Enable Secure Boot in BIOS/UEFI. This is fairly specific, so we recommend checking Riot’s official guide.

Q: Is Uninstalling Valorant Worth It?

A: This depends on you; however, if the reason is low-quality games, getting a Valorant boost could be exactly what you need rather than a full uninstall.

Why Valorant’s Vanguard Stirs Controversy

  • Kernel Access: Vanguard operates at the system level, raising privacy concerns among some users.
  • Performance Hits: Idle CPU usage (1-3%) and driver conflicts with RGB tools. While this might not sound massive, it's a big hit for players on older hardware.
  • Mandatory: Remove it, and Valorant and other Riot games won’t launch.

Final Shot: Reclaim Your PC

Uninstalling Valorant is more than a storage fix; it’s a complete reset. Whether you’re battling errors, freeing resources, or prioritizing mental health, do it thoroughly. Struggling with Vanguard ghosts or TPM errors? Share your story below. Let’s get it sorted!