Valorant Episode 8 Act 1 is set to bring significant changes to the Lotus map, with tweaks to all three sites to enhance gameplay dynamics for both attackers and defenders. The adjustments aim to create a more balanced and engaging environment for players. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the changes to each site on Lotus:
A-Site Changes:
- A Link Area:
- The area around A Link has been modified, offering defenders additional cover and elevation with the introduction of boxes.
- The breakable wall’s outside space no longer has angled walls, providing more depth for player movement.
- Inside A-Site:
- The inside space around the breakable wall has been expanded, giving defenders more hiding spots on either side.
- A significant change at the main A-Site involves closing down the middle structure with a pass-through space, leading to engaging new strategies.
B-Site Changes:
- B-Site Entry:
- A nook has been added at the B-Site entry, replacing the plain passageway and creating an engaging crossfire.
- The planting area has been reduced, no longer reaching the corner with stacked boxes, making it more challenging for attackers.
C-Site Changes:
- Half-Broken Pillar:
- The half-broken pillar has been extended upwards while remaining broken.
- Planting Area Shift:
- The planting area has been completely shifted from the right side (towards defender spawn) to the left side (towards attacker spawn).
- Two step-boxes are now tucked into a corner, replacing the double-stacked box towards the defender spawn.
- Box Replacements:
- The double-stacked box towards the defender spawn has been replaced by two side-by-side double-stacked boxes, creating a significant obstacle.
- The single box towards the attacker spawn has been replaced by two side-by-side, double-stacked boxes.
- Entry Adjustment:
- The attacker side entry has gained depth towards the left side with additional boxes, making it more challenging for attackers.
These changes, set to go live on January 8, 2024, have sparked varied reactions within the community. It remains to be seen how teams adapt and strategize in response to the revamped Lotus map in Valorant Episode 8 Act 1. The alterations aim to inject a fresh dynamic into gameplay, offering both familiar and novel challenges for players in Lotus 2.0.