There has been many discussions about toxicity in game. Most of what I have seen on the subject on dealing with it has been to just ignore it, mute people, etc. But there hasn't been much discussion about how to prevent your team from getting toxic in the first place. I've streamed valorant a lot, and had my vods reviewed by people to see where I can improve, and the question I tend to get is how do I always have matches where people are communicating and being friendly. So I wanted to try and write out what I feel helps me avoid toxic teammates.

1. At the beginning of every match, in agent select, I always start with "Hey everyone, how's your (time of day) going?" The responses.... vary, to say the least. I'd say it's about a 30/70 split of negative to positive responses. I'm classifying animal grunts as negative, lol. But I feel this sets the tone in my teammates minds from the beginning that I want to be friendly, that my intent is to be friendly. So later, if I need to provide negative feedback, they might understand it's coming from a friendly place.

2. Provide negative feedback as a question. A good example would be this: "Hey viper, could you put your wall up for me here? It helps with the way I'm peeking/holding." If you give feedback this way, it asks them to make a change, instead of demand it. You aren't their igl or coach, you aren't their commanding officer. Being ordered around doesn't feel good for most people.

3. Provide positive feedback. It's simple, it's easy, and it goes a long way. If your teammate is popping off? Tell them. They did a really good flash, played with you well, good smokes, etc, tell them. Not just for kills.

4. Nice tries. Again, goes a long way. Your teammate just died. I guarantee you they are not happy about it. Nice tries or good efforts are an excellent way to help them recover their mental and focus on the next round.

5. Let them know if you're disappointed with yourself. You missed a shot your should have made, lost a duel, died to a cypher trap, etc. Let your team know you feel bad about it, and they might not feel the need to make sure you feel bad about it.

6. This one isn't for everyone, because not everyone is as social as I am, but joking around with your teammates helps a lot. It sets the mood. Try not to joke at anyone's expense, though, unless you are making fun of yourself.

7. Shut up during clutches unless giving crucial info.

I know not everyone is going to agree with this, and this isn't a set in stone way to avoid all toxicity. It still happens no matter what you do. But the important thing to remember is this: the only person you can control is yourself.