Valorant Episode 8: Outlaw Sniper, Map Evolution, and Agent Upgrades

There were a lot of attractive updates when the much awaited Valorant Episode 8 Act 1 arrived on January 9. Highlights include the addition of the Outlaw sniper weapon, new bundles, a larger pool of seven maps, adjustments to a number of agents, compatibility with external spatial audio software, and more. Now that we’ve covered all of the essential information and nuances of Valorant Patch 8.0, let’s examine the adjustments made in conjunction with Episode 8 Act 1.

Valorant Patch 8.0: Overhauling Agents

Empowering Deadlock

The latest update focuses on enhancing Deadlock by fortifying both the Sonic Sensor (Q) and Barrier Mesh (E) abilities.

Sonic Sensor (Q)

• It is now possible to retrieve Sonic Sensors during a round.
• The pickup range of the Sonic Sensor was extended from 12 to 27 metres.
• decreased the concussion time of the Sonic Sensor from 1 to 0.5 seconds.
• Reduced the duration of Sonic Sensor destruction from 0.65 seconds to 0.5 seconds.
• The audio of Sonic Sensor is now slightly audible to Deadlock and friends inside its field of effect.

Barrier Mesh (E)

• Expanded the maximum length of Barrier Mesh walls from 6m to 10m.

Adjusting Killjoy’s Arsenal

In response to the perceived advantage of Killjoy’s Turret (E), adjustments have been made to balance its capabilities.

Turret (E)

• Reduced Turret’s vision radius from 180 degrees to 100 degrees.
• Added a visual representation of the Turret’s vision cone to Killjoy’s minimap during placement.
• Updated Turret’s animations and added VFX to reflect its new vision radius.

Valorant Patch 8.0: Redefining Weapons

Introducing the Outlaw Sniper Rifle

A significant addition to the arsenal is the Outlaw sniper rifle, characterized by unique features.

• Functions as a semi-automatic scoped rifle.
• Remains scoped after firing.
• Allows two consecutive shots without reloading.
• Variable reload times, quicker with one bullet in the chamber and longer when empty.
• Available in-game for 2,400 credits.

Outlaw Stats

• Damage: Head 238 HP | Body 140 HP | Legs 119 HP
• Damage Through Wall: 125 HP | High Wall Penetration
• Magazine Size: Weapon 2 Bullets | Reserve 10 Bullets
• Equip Time: 1.25 secs
• Firerate: 2.75 rounds/sec
• Running Speed: 80%

Valorant Patch 8.0: Evolving Maps

Icebox Revamp

Icebox returns with modifications, particularly in the central region.

Attacker Spawn

• Added a storage container on the left side, blocking the line of sight from Attacker Spawn to B Tube.

B Green

• Raised the hanging container to open up space and create more dynamic gameplay.

B Tube

• Introduced a window at the end of B Tube, overlooking Mid, with added cover in the form of stacked boxes.

B Snow Pile

• Blocked the path from B Kitchen to B Site for more predictable encounters.
• Adjusted the snow pile for silent drops.

Lotus Enhancements

To address the attacker-favored imbalance, adjustments have been made across all three sites.

Common Changes

• Rotating doors now take 10 seconds for a full spin, encouraging utility exchanges and prolonged fights.

A Main

• Increased space in the A Rubble area with added boxes.

A Link

• Expanded room near the breakable door.

A Hut

• Closed walls on A Hut to facilitate easier site retakes.

B Site

• Additional space near the entry for a more strategic choke point.

C Site

• Shifted the plant zone towards the C Bend for diversity.
• Readjusted boxes towards the back of the site.

Valorant Patch 8.0: The Map Rotation

The map rotation for Episode 8 includes Icebox, Lotus, Sunset, Breeze, Ascent, Bind, and Split, keeping with Riot Games pledge to maintain a pool of seven maps. All game modes are compatible with this rotation, with the exception of Team Deathmatch and Custom Games.

Valorant Patch 8.0: Premier League Enhancements

Introducing the Team Captain Role

• A new secondary management role, Team Captain, allows for team member invitations and removals, with certain restrictions to maintain team integrity.

Standings and Divisions

• Players can now view their seeded division before their initial match and are restricted from viewing standings in other divisions and for previous stages.

Playoff Qualification

• The threshold to qualify for playoffs returns to the standard 675 Premier Score.

EMEA Zone Updates

• Zones have been adapted to support the VCT Challengers League Path to Promotion in EMEA.

Valorant Patch 8.0: Gameplay System Advancements

With this update Valorant now supports headphones with third-party spatialization software giving players more options than just the HRTF option that has been available since Patch 7.06.

Alongside the release of Valorant Patch 8.0 which opens Episode 8 Act 1 are these significant updates. Now that Killjoy’s powers have been significantly changed the community must decide whether to support the Outlaw sniper or to choose Deadlock over Killjoy.

Read More: BGMI: A4 Royale Pass Exclusive Rewards and Leaked Details

Valorant Episode 8 Act 1 Update: New Patch Notes, New Outlaw Weapon, and more

Modern Warfare 3 Introduces Three Revamped Maps in the Vortex Event