Rivals Returning Gamemode Schedule

The Rivals returning gamemode schedule is a rotating lineup of limited-time modes that refreshes every Tuesday at 10:00 AM PT. You can see the current week’s active modes and the next few weeks’ schedule in the in-game playlist screen under the “Featured” tab.

How the Rotation Works

Rivals uses a weekly rotation system for its returning gamemodes. Each week, a set of modes is activated for a limited time, usually seven days. The schedule is consistent across all platforms, so players on PC, console, and mobile see the same modes at the same time. The rotation resets every Tuesday at 10:00 AM Pacific Time, which is 1:00 PM Eastern and 6:00 PM UTC (adjust for daylight saving time).

When a mode is marked as “returning,” it means it was previously available in an earlier season or event and is now being brought back for a limited run. This allows newer players to experience modes they missed and gives veterans a chance to play old favorites again. The returning modes are typically announced a week in advance on the official Rivals social media channels and the in-game news ticker.

Current and Upcoming Schedule

As of this writing, the current week’s returning gamemodes are:

• Capture the Flag – Classic CTF on three maps, available until the next reset.
• Gun Game – Everyone starts with a pistol and progresses through a fixed weapon order.
• Hardpoint – A rotating objective mode where teams fight to hold a single zone.

Next week’s schedule (starting at the next Tuesday reset) will include:

• Team Deathmatch – Standard 6v6 TDM on a curated map pool.
• One in the Chamber – Each player gets one bullet and three lives; earn more bullets by getting kills.
• Infected – A zombie-style mode where one player starts infected and turns others on kill.

This schedule is accurate for the current season. For future weeks, check the in-game playlist screen, as the full rotation is usually listed there for the next two to three weeks.

How to Access Returning Modes

To play a returning gamemode, follow these simple steps:

1. Launch Rivals and wait for the main menu to load.
2. Click on the “Play” button in the top navigation bar.
3. Select the “Featured” tab on the left side of the screen.
4. Scroll through the list of active modes; returning modes will have a “Returning” badge next to their name.
5. Click the mode you want, then select “Find Match” to queue up.

If you don’t see a mode you were expecting, it may have already rotated out. The schedule is subject to change, and Rivals occasionally extends or shortens a mode’s availability due to technical issues or player feedback.

Why Modes Return

Rivals brings back older gamemodes for several reasons. The most common is to celebrate a milestone, such as a seasonal anniversary or a major update. Another reason is to gather data: if a returning mode gets high player counts, the developers may consider making it a permanent addition in a future season. Returning modes also serve as a low-risk way to test new map variations or rule tweaks, since the core mechanics are already known to the player base.

For example, when the developers wanted to test a new overtime rule for Capture the Flag, they brought back the mode for a week with the rule active. Player feedback and statistics from that run helped them decide whether to implement the change permanently. This approach lets the team experiment without committing to a full season of a new mode.

Common Issues and Fixes

Players sometimes run into problems when trying to play returning modes. The most frequent issue is not seeing the mode in the playlist, which almost always means the mode has already rotated out. Double-check the current time against the Tuesday 10:00 AM PT reset. If it’s after the reset, the new schedule should be live; if it’s before, the old schedule is still active.

Another common issue is matchmaking taking too long. Returning modes often have lower player counts than the main playlists, especially late in the week. If you’re waiting more than two minutes, try switching to a different region or playing during peak hours (evenings and weekends). You can also invite friends to fill a party, which can speed up matchmaking.

If the game crashes or freezes when loading a returning mode, make sure your game is updated to the latest version. Clearing your console’s cache or verifying game files on PC can also resolve persistent issues. If problems continue, report them through the in-game feedback tool so the developers are aware.

Comparing Returning Modes to Permanent Ones

Returning modes are not always identical to their permanent counterparts. The biggest difference is the map pool: returning modes often use a curated selection of maps rather than the full rotation. This is intentional, as it lets players focus on a few maps and learn them well during the limited time. The rules are usually the same, but sometimes the developers tweak things like score limits, round timers, or respawn delays to test changes.

Rewards also differ. Permanent modes typically offer standard XP and battle pass progression, while returning modes may have special challenges that grant exclusive cosmetics or bonus XP. These challenges are usually available for the duration of the mode’s run, so be sure to check the challenge tab and complete them before the mode rotates out.

Another difference is that returning modes may have a smaller player base, which can affect matchmaking quality. If you’re used to instant queues in Team Deathmatch, you might wait a bit longer in a returning mode like One in the Chamber. This is normal and not a bug.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn’t the returning mode showing up for me?

The most likely reason is that the mode has already rotated out. Check the current time against the Tuesday 10:00 AM PT reset. If the mode was scheduled for last week, it’s gone. If it’s scheduled for this week but you don’t see it, try restarting your game client or checking for updates. Occasionally the playlist screen doesn’t refresh properly, and a restart fixes it.

Can I play returning modes with friends?

Yes, you can party up with friends and queue for any returning mode. The entire party will be placed in the same match, provided all players are in the same region and have compatible skill ratings. Note that some modes may have a party size limit (e.g., max 3 players for Gun Game), which is displayed in the mode’s description.

Do returning modes count toward battle pass progress?

Yes, all returning modes grant standard XP and battle pass progress. They also count toward daily and weekly challenges that require playing specific modes. However, some special challenges tied to a returning mode may only be available during that mode’s active week, so complete them before the rotation ends.

How far in advance is the schedule announced?

The in-game playlist screen usually shows the current week and the following week’s modes. The developers also post the schedule on official social media channels about a week before each reset. For a longer-term view, the community often compiles schedules based on leaks and official announcements, but these are not always accurate.

Can I request a returning mode?

Yes, the developers regularly ask for feedback on which modes players want to see return. You can submit your vote through the in-game feedback tool or on the official forums. While there’s no guarantee your request will be honored, the team does consider player demand when planning future rotations.

Why do some returning modes only last a few days?

Occasionally a mode is brought back for a short weekend event (e.g., double XP weekends). These shorter runs are usually tied to a specific celebration or promotion. The schedule will clearly indicate the exact start and end times for these limited runs, so be sure to check the mode’s details before queuing.

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