As we approach the close of Act Two in VALORANT, Patch 9.08 is set to usher in Act Three of Episode Nine on October 23, 2024. This update brings a slew of exciting changes, including significant nerfs to Gekko, a revamp of the Sunset map, and the introduction of a new Team Deathmatch (TDM) arena called Glitch.
Key Updates in VALORANT Patch 9.08
Gekko’s Adjustments: Nerfs and Buffs
Riot Games has taken a closer look at Gekko’s performance, acknowledging that the character had been performing too well with minimal downsides since the buffs in Patch 7.12. To balance his impact in the game, several changes have been made:
- Globule Pickup Adjustments:
- Duration in the World: Reduced from 20 seconds to 15 seconds.
- Reclaim Time: Increased from 1 second to 1.5 seconds.
- Dizzy:
- Active duration after being thrown decreased from 1.5 seconds to 1 second.
- Improved targeting algorithm for better reliability.
- Now blinds the minimap of affected players.
- Wingman:
- Cone concuss area increased from 45 degrees to 65 degrees.
- Unique visuals when Wingman turns into a globule after planting the Spike.
- Thrash:
- Ultimate points required increased from 7 to 8.
Yoru’s Clone Improvements
Yoru’s Fakeout clone has received a subtle buff to enhance its effectiveness in gameplay. Notably, it now interacts properly with various agent abilities, making it harder for enemies to differentiate between the clone and Yoru himself. Key changes include:
- Blind Abilities: Effects now display correctly on Yoru’s Fakeout clone, making it more challenging for opponents.
- Interactions with Other Agents: Various abilities from characters like Cypher and Vyse will now function correctly against the Fakeout.
Sunset Map Revamp
The Sunset map has undergone a much-needed overhaul. Riot has addressed several issues related to defensibility and post-plant strategies, allowing for more dynamic gameplay in the area surrounding the B Site. These changes aim to create a more balanced experience for both attackers and defenders.
New Team Deathmatch Map: Glitch
VALORANT introduces its fifth TDM map, Glitch, featuring a dual-themed arena controlled by Max Bot. The map is designed to provide players with a unique and engaging environment for warmup sessions and casual play.
Competitive Map Pool Updates
As part of the competitive map rotation adjustments, Split and Pearl will return to the ranked experience, while Lotus and Icebox will be temporarily removed to facilitate these changes.
Cosmetic Updates
In response to player feedback, Riot has updated the scope designs for several weapon skins, including the Araxys and Reaver Operators, to enhance visibility and reduce distractions during gameplay.
Premier Updates for Act Three
The upcoming season of Premier includes important updates regarding team placements and eligibility for the Contender division.
Teams must meet specific criteria to remain in the Invite category, with demoted teams seeded into their original zones. Additionally, players looking to qualify for Contender in 2025 will need to perform qualifying actions during Stage E9A3.
Bug Fixes
Alongside the extensive updates, Patch 9.08 also addresses two critical bug fixes:
- Map Issue: The Spike now spawns correctly at B Danger if it falls off the map on Abyss.
- Premier Mode Fix: Resolved an issue where players saw a Competitor Crest after practicing with a new team, despite not earning any points.
Conclusion
Patch 9.08 is shaping up to be a significant update for VALORANT, with substantial changes to Gekko, the introduction of a new TDM map, and the revamped Sunset map enhancing the gameplay experience. As the competitive landscape shifts with these updates, players will need to adapt their strategies for Act Three of Episode Nine.
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