VALORANT map pool: All maps in rotation after newest update
In some FPS games, game developers decide map pools that change over time, according to the changes and player feedback, and VALORANT is no exception. Since its release, we welcomed new maps into the game as well as the rotation, on the other hand bidding farewell to some fan-favorites. It is always bitter-sweet to say goodbye to our favorite maps but it is also pretty important to adapt to the new map pool and get better on other maps. This approach keeps the game’s content fresh all the time and it also makes it easier for players to adapt to new maps, for example Abyss, which was added to the game in Patch 8.11. You might wonder about the current active VALORANT map pool and in this piece, you will find all the information you need. Here are all the active maps in VALORANT after Patch 9.04!
The game splits its maps into two groups: one set for Competitive, Deathmatch, and Premier queues and another set for other modes like Unrated and Spike Rush. This system allows for a mix of casual and competitive play environments. With the September 2024 update, VALORANT has made all maps available across both PC and console platforms, ensuring all players have the same experience.
Current map rotation in VALORANT
As of the latest update in September 2024, patch 8.11, the VALORANT map pool for competitive and ranked matches includes seven maps. These maps are:
- Abyss
- Ascent
- Bind
- Haven
- Icebox
- Lotus
- Sunset
In patch 9.08, the map rotation will see some slight changes. Here is the new map rotation:
What is a map rotation in VALORANT?
There is an interesting fact about map pools. Many players are unaware of this but in every map pool change, you will find seven maps in the rotation. No matter what happens, for example a new map may be added to the game and it finds itself a place in the official rotation, then one more map gets removed from the rotation to keep the 7-map rule alive at all times, particularly Competitive and Premier. This system keeps seven maps in the rotation at any time. The selection of maps in rotation depends on various factors, such as feedback from players, the age of the maps and upcoming updates from the developers.
The concept of keeping only seven maps in rotation started with the introduction of the map Pearl during Episode 05. The developers found that having seven maps is the ideal number. It allows enough variety to keep the game interesting but not too many that it becomes overwhelming for players. This number of maps also works well for professional tournaments, allowing teams to ban certain maps without having to play the same map more than once in a best-of-five series.
Why does VALORANT map pool change over time?
The map pool in VALORANT changes over time to keep the game interesting and fair for all players. One of the main reasons for changing the maps is to get feedback from players about which maps they enjoy and which ones might need improvements. Sometimes, the developers add new maps to provide fresh challenges and strategies, which means they might remove older maps to keep the total manageable. This helps prevent the game from becoming too complex for new players while still offering enough variety for experienced players to enjoy and master. Keeping the game updated with new maps also helps in planning future updates, ensuring that each map can offer a fun and strategic gameplay experience.
Riot Games aims to keep the game accessible to new players while challenging enough for experienced players. The company's Lead Map Designer, Joe Lansford, has stated that having seven maps helps players learn the game without feeling overwhelmed. It also allows seasoned players to master the maps and develop advanced strategies.
Is Pearl in map rotation?
Not yet, but Pearl will make it into the official map rotation with the upcoming Patch 9.08, which is expected to go live at the end of October. In this patch, Riot Games is planning to remove Icebox and Lotus from the official map pool while adding Pearl and Lotus. This will allow players to play on this map in ranked games and in professional esports competitions. Many ranked and professional players missed playing Pearl and they will finally get what they have been waiting for.
Even though some maps get removd from the official map pool after new patches, players can still enjoy these maps in other game modes like Unrated or Deathmatch. Every map has its place in the game and while some of them are highly disliked by the majority, there are still people who enjoy them too. That is why even some maps get removed from the official map rotation, you will still be able to play them in certain modes. Please note that the map pool in VALORANT can change in time. Developers will let everyone know when a new Patch Note releases. Just scroll down to the “Maps” section and you will see all the changes made in that Patch. However, new Patches may not include any information about maps, which means that the current map pool will remain the same.
If you are curious about VALORANT, there may be much more to learn about. There are many things you need to know about, from skins to weapons, ranks to Agents. We compiled some guides that you may benefit from. Check them out below: