Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) Americas returns soon, bringing excitement to fans eager to watch their favorite teams compete. However, Riot Games recently announced that Abyss, the new map, will not be available during the Regular Stage of Stage 2. This raises the question: when will this map be playable in the league?
Stage 2 Preparations and Map Rotation
Following Gen.G’s incredible victory at the Masters in Shanghai, Stage 1 of the competitive season concluded, and teams immediately began preparing for the upcoming Stage 2 of VCT Americas.
With the new stage starting this weekend, all eyes in Latin America are on the debut of KRÜ Esports and Leviatán. Additionally, the recent 8.11 Duelist patch brings significant changes, including adjustments to the map rotation.
Current Map Rotation
Despite the introduction of Abyss, it will not be part of the Regular Stage map rotation for Stage 2. Instead, the map will become available during the Playoffs, replacing Split. The maps included in the Regular Stage rotation are:
- Ascent
- Bind
- Icebox
- Haven
- Lotus
- Split
- Sunset
Changes from the 8.11 Patch
The 8.11 patch not only reintroduced Haven but also brought buffs to Duelists such as Neon, Reyna, and Iso. These changes will be in effect from the start of the competition, impacting the dynamics of the matches significantly.
Playoffs and Abyss Map Availability
According to the official VCT Americas account, Abyss will be introduced during the Playoffs, starting from July 17. This will be the first opportunity for teams and fans to see competitive play on the new map in the region. The Playoffs phase will likely offer thrilling matches as teams adapt to the new environment.
Anticipation for the Playoffs
With the introduction of Abyss, the Playoffs promise to deliver exciting and fresh gameplay. Teams will need to develop new strategies and adapt quickly to the new map to secure their victories. The anticipation for Abyss is high, and its impact on the competitive scene will be closely watched.
Key Dates and Matches
The Regular Stage of VCT Americas kicks off on June 22, featuring the opening match between MIBR and Leviatán. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how teams will perform with the new buffs and changes from the 8.11 patch.
Important Dates to Remember
- June 22: Regular Stage begins with MIBR vs. Leviatán
- July 17: Playoffs start, introducing Abyss into the map rotation
Conclusion
As VCT Americas Stage 2 begins, teams and fans alike should prepare for significant changes in gameplay dynamics due to the new 8.11 patch and the upcoming introduction of Abyss.
While the new map won’t be available during the Regular Stage, its debut in the Playoffs will undoubtedly add an exciting twist to the competition.