Riot Games is rolling out Patch 9.01 for Valorant, bringing a mix of updates, bug fixes, and exciting new features for both PC and console players. Here’s a comprehensive look at what to expect from the latest patch.
New Features and Updates in Patch 9.01
Temporary Removal of Escalation Mode
In Patch 9.01, the Escalation game mode is temporarily removed due to a bug. However, players need not worry about its permanent removal. Escalation is expected to return with Patch 9.03 once Riot Games addresses and fixes the identified issues.
Visual and Functional Updates for The Outlaw
The Outlaw sniper rifle receives a visual overhaul to enhance player experience. The update includes a new animation to help players more clearly determine when the weapon is ready to fire. Additionally, all Outlaw skins will be updated to align with this new animation.
New Esports Feature: Pick ‘Ems
Starting on July 26, Valorant players will gain access to the Champions Seoul Group Stage via the in-client Pick ‘Ems feature. This feature allows players to predict team advancements, compare predictions with experts and creators, and earn rewards. The upcoming Patch 9.02 will introduce Pick ‘Ems for the playoffs stage, providing further opportunities for engagement.
Console-Specific Updates
Agent and Map Changes
To ensure a consistent meta across platforms, Patch 9.01 introduces key changes for console players:
- Neon:
- Slide: The re-equip speed has been changed from Fast to Instant.
- Raze:
- Second Blast Pack: The horizontal force has been reduced.
- Iso:
- Double Tap: Duration decreased from 20s to 12s; the signature kill reset has been removed.
Additionally, Lotus has been added to the console Competitive and casual map pool, enhancing variety and balance in gameplay.
General and Social Updates for Consoles
Patch 9.01 also introduces several quality-of-life improvements for console players:
- Notification Indicator: Easier tracking of pending party invites.
- Voice Indicators: Identify which party member is speaking through new voice indicators in the social panel.
- Party Management: Simplified party leaving with a new button in the My Party section.
- Rebinding Controls: Players can now freely rebind non-ultimate Ability Button mappings and adjust map cursor control settings.
Comprehensive Bug Fixes
Patch 9.01 addresses a range of bugs affecting both PC and consoles:
- General:
- Fixed a bug allowing Neon to equip faster from her slide than intended.
- Gameplay Systems:
- Resolved an issue with AFK players initiating surrender votes.
- Addressed a stutter issue with Cypher’s Spycam for spectators.
- Fixed Tactical Callouts appearing in chat despite settings adjustments.
- Corrected bullet tracer issues and visibility problems for Sage and Clove’s resurrections.
- Enhanced performance by fixing auto-respawn issues caused by spike explosions in Custom Games.
- Maps – Abyss:
- Cleaned up Cypher’s Spycam spots and improved Wingman’s Spike plant pathing.
- Fixed minimap orientation issues and visual bugs on A site.
PC-Specific Fixes
- Gameplay Systems:
- Addressed an issue with the Ping Wheel getting stuck when bound to the Z key.
- Premier:
- Resolved matchmaking issues that affected the first two weeks of Episode Nine, Act One, ensuring smooth gameplay for the remainder of the season.
Console-Specific Fixes
- General:
- Fixed issues with traditional preset weapon switching and visual highlighting in menus.
- Agent Abilities:
- Corrected AimAssist issues for Sova’s Recon Bolt and Fade’s Haunt, and fixed inconsistencies with AimAssist application for various abilities.
- Gameplay Systems:
- Resolved issues with Focus Mode and EOG screens in Match History.
Known Issues in Patch 9.01
While Riot Games is addressing numerous bugs, a few issues remain:
- Console: There is a chance of control lock when navigating Surrender menus. To mitigate this, Riot has disabled the Surrender and Remake menus temporarily. Draw matches remain an option.
- PC and Console: Players might see “<MISSING STRING ENTRY TABLE>” in the chat log related to party changes. This does not significantly impact gameplay and is being addressed.
Conclusion
Patch 9.01 for Valorant brings a mix of exciting updates, quality-of-life improvements, and critical bug fixes for both PC and console players. With these changes, Riot Games continues to refine the Valorant experience, preparing players for upcoming esports events and ensuring a smoother gameplay experience across all platforms.
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