Earlier this weekend, Riot Games released a YouTube video covering many topics, including gameplay and balance, anti-cheat, and player behavior. These updates are crucial to Valorant’s gameplay and player experience. Out of three topics today, this article will cover gameplay and balance since many players have been waiting for this update to roll out.
In the Dev Updates, Product Manager Coleman Palm and Game Designer and Balance Design Lead Dan Hardison discussed the upcoming map pool rotation coming to the game before the end of the year.
Map Pool Changes
Riot Games is planning some map changes in Episode 9 Act III, which will mainly affect Icebox and Lotus despite Icebox’s recent changes.
Riot Games is removing them mainly because the Valorant community is not enjoying them. On the other hand, Lotus has been incredible. Many players loved it, and it was one of the top-picked maps in pro plays for this season; Riot felt that it was time for some changes and to create a fresh environment for the rest of the season.
Riot Games decided it would be best if Split and Pearl were back on the rotation to replace Icebox and Lotus. Split will finally return after three months while Pearl was gone in patch 7.04.
Sunset Changes
Sunset B Site Changes
Due to many complaints about Sunset being a spam simulator and the complexity of the B site, Riot Games decided to apply multiple changes to the B site and mid to make the player experience more enjoyable.
Sunset B and Mid Changes
The recent changes are designed to diminish the potency of the post-plant meta. Although the adjustments to the mid area are minor, they introduce new opportunities for players to navigate the mid more safely, providing defenders better cover. These modifications aim to enhance the map’s overall balance, promising to offer exciting gameplay experiences once the patch goes live.
Sunset B Site Changes
Agents Changes
In a recent update, the developers noted that champions Iso, Neon, Reyna, and Raze have significantly contributed to achieving their overall objectives. While Iso had initial challenges, a subsequent patch has led to a robust and diverse Duelist ecosystem.
Riot Games acknowledged that the ongoing adjustments in in-game balance are a natural aspect of maintaining competitiveness in live games. They expressed their desire to release more patches throughout the year, ensuring these updates are implemented non-disruptively. Additionally, they are continuing to refine Phoenix and are considering further adjustments within the Duelist roster.
The developers also recognized a need to tune certain areas, particularly among some less effective Sentinels and Controllers. While many players patiently anticipate Harbor changes in this patch, Riot Games indicated that these adjustments require additional time before implementation.
Lastly, Valorant devs have also discussed their plan for anti-cheat updates, behavior updates, and a rank reset update, hoping for a safer play experience.
