Icebox is returning to VALORANT's competitive map pool
Riot Games has confirmed that the competitive map pool is getting a big change in Episode 8.
In a tweet earlier today, the VALORANT account shared some map changes for Episode 8. Icebox and Lotus will be getting updates for Episode 8 since they will be part of the next map pool rotation. Here is the full list of maps in the Episode 8 competitive map pool:
- Icebox
- Lotus
- Sunset
- Breeze
- Ascent
- Bind
- Split
As you can see, Haven will be removed in Episode 8.
Another interesting update is that the competitive map rotation will be used in other modes as well “so that you’ll always play on the most relevant maps.” This won’t apply to Team Deathmatch and custom games.
What changes are coming for Icebox?
Developers haven’t shared what changes are coming to Icebox but gamers are expecting some big updates. Icebox hasn’t been in the rotation since April and it was controversial back then thanks to its sight lines.
To create better balance between attackers and defenders, developers may be looking into new pathways as well as making existing pathways less open. There may be more spots for hiding and peaking.
VALORANT Episode 8 will go live on January 9, 2024.
Olivia has worked in media ever since graduating from college, with her coverage ranging from traditional newspaper reporting to digital coverage of all things gaming, online betting, and nerd culture. She has traveled around the world pursuing that coverage, from the far coasts of the United States to the busy downtown core of Tokyo, Japan. Olivia’s favorite games include Overwatch and Super Smash Smash Bros, and she has been published at Esports Illustrated, Inven Global, EsportsInsider, Upcomer, and elsewhere.
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