Project A leaked images reveal first first character, abilities

An anonymous source has leaked what appears to be images of Riot Games’ Project A, the developer’s first shooter title.

In early February, Riot hosted a closed alpha in its office in Dublin, Ireland. A small group of players had a chance to get their hands on Project A and the feedback was positive. Former professional Counter-Strike player Henry “HenryG” Greer said that Project A is the best game since CSGO. HernyG also hinted that more announcements would come on March 2.

Just before the announcement, a series of alleged screenshots from Project A flooded the internet. The first screenshot shows Sage, one of the characters in the game.

Sage has four orbs to pick from with different effects:

• Barrier Orb: Creates a solid wall
• Slow Orb: The orb detonates upon landing and creates a field that slows down and grounds the enemies inside of it.
• Healing Orb: It can be used to heal the allies or herself.
• Resurrection: Sage’s ultimate brings back any dead ally with full health.

Fans immediately draw a comparison with the heroes from Overwatch. Based on her kit, Sage is a combination of Mei, Mercy, and Moira. The key difference is that Sage won’t have the orbs available at all times.

In Project A, players buy their abilities before every round using the in-game economy, similar to the system used in Counter-Strike. The ability system is quite different in Project A, however.

The second screenshot allegedly shows the weapon menu in Project A. Players can spend resources on a variety of weapons, armor, and abilities.

Project A is one of the most anticipated games in the industry right now. 

Riot announced the game during its 10-year anniversary in 2019. At the time the developer shared few details about the game, but Riot’s willingness to challenge Counter-Strike’s place at the top of the tactical shooter hierarchy was intriguing. Many are expecting Riot’s Project A vs. Valve’s Counter-Strike to be a rivalry similar to the one between the developers’ MOBA titles, League of Legends and Dota 2.

Project A’s release date is yet to be announced.