The most important part of the patch was obviously the release of new agent Neon, a brand new Duelist to rival the likes of Jett and Raze. Her kit has a focus on mobility and she’s able to get around the map in lightning fast time. Most of her abilities make use of energy beams which can make quick work of opponents by shocking them or by using the beams for cover, providing her with a lot of tactical options.
Thank you to our creators and community members who helped us welcome our first Filipina agent into VALORANT.
Now let’s see who’s quick enough to get the instalock NEON. pic.twitter.com/YhiDA7qzOh
— VALORANT (@PlayVALORANT) January 9, 2022
There’s also been some tweaks to weapons, more specifically to the Ares, Bulldog, Guardian and Spectre. The latter received a nerf, making it’s spray less reliable, while the other three received minor buffs. Furthermore, the melee attack is now generally stronger due to an increased hitbox.
Riot Games also pushed through an update on the competitive, ranked playlist. Now players will have to have their account at a minimum of level 20 before they’ll be able to join in on the fun, which will help new players get acclimated to the game before jumping into ranked matches, and will somewhat mitigate smurfing.
Come chill with VALORANT devs before Episode 4 launches to talk all things Act I and beyond. Hosted by @RivingtonThe3rd on https://t.co/wPheJoOLB3 pic.twitter.com/vS4OgxrDxz
— VALORANT (@PlayVALORANT) January 6, 2022
Finally there’s been some changes to the maps as well, mainly on Breeze. Defenders have been given more options at the A site, giving them more cover through additional crates in Cave and by extending the pool up to the wall, where the spike can now also be planted. The B site was also tweaked, as again more cover was added around the pillars as well as some crates at B wall.
Also read:
- 5 Most improved players in VALORANT in 2021
- No in-game Champions skins for VCT Champions winner, says Riot
- Riot is buffing Yoru – This is what they’re changing
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