Valorant adds groundbreaking new map in Patch 3.05

Riot Games have just lifted the veil on their second act for Episode 3, Reflection coming in Patch 3.05. As expected, the update will include a new map named ‘Fracture’ along with a new battlepass as well. The announcement didn’t include any details on a new Agent.

‘Fracture’ will reimagine how maps are designed in Valorant

With the addition of ‘Fracture’, the goal looks to be a reimagining of the current map design philosophy. Inspired by so-called pincer movements, in which one side attacks both sides of an enemy formation at the same time, the entire map is set up in a giant H-shaped layout.

To encourage players to do that, Defenders spawn in the center of the map while Attackers spawn at both sides of the map, thereby creating a pincer movement. While it might seem problematic to give one side such a seemingly large advantage, Riot explained the design as wanting to rethink map traversal and neutral space.

• “We really wanted to ask players to rethink some fundamental assumptions and give them unique problems to solve. For example, for whom is the neutral space really for? From there, the goals just all focused on supporting that “what if.” The H-shape of the map, the neutral spaces, the ziplines, everything is built to reinforce that core idea.”
  - Joe Lansford, Level Designer at Riot Games

In total, the map will have 2 plant sites of vastly different settings from each other. The A-site will be located in a desolate desert, while the B-site can be found surrounded by invasive foliage.

The new layout isn’t the only thing new; Fracture will also have zip-lines and other supposedly interactive objects for players to use throughout the match.

New battlepass on its way

Patch 3.05 also brings with it a brand new battlepass with skins, player cards, and the usual lot to keep players engaged throughout. You can check out the full list of items included in the video below.

Both Fracture and the new battlepass will be available to players on Wednesday, September 8^th.