Updated on August 27, 3:30 a.m. (GMT+8): Added Sunset reveal trailer.
As Episode 7 Act 2 approaches, players will soon get to explore Valorant Sunset, Riot Games’ newest map set in Los Angeles, California.
The map is adorned with staples of LA culture, such as a neon sunset, bustling food trucks, a traffic-filled highway, and graffiti murals showcasing the work of local artists.
Sunset’s layout revolves around three lanes, a design recognizable to players familiar with Team Deathmatch gameplay.
Here is an overview of Valorant’s 10th map, set to release on August 29.
Valorant Sunset will have a mid-lane warzone because of its layout
Team Deathmatch maps are characterized by compact size, centered around three key lanes where teams frequently engage. What sets Sunset apart, besides its larger size and the two spike sites, is its notable focus on controlling the mid area.
“Sunset features a mid that is fairly difficult to control and doesn’t really favor one team or another; it’s generally good for rifle ranges and opens up a bunch of opportunities for whichever team can take it,” said Valorant Lead Map Designer Joe Lansford. “We expect to see both teams make mid control a central part of their strategy on Sunset.”
Sunset will have features from other maps, like Ascent’s open and closing doors and Lotus’ airlock, that briefly open up pathways players can take. What makes Sunset unique is that it originally had a “poison pit” when it was in its development phase, Lansford explained.
Riot Games debuted Sunset in a closed-door session during the Valorant Champions 2023 media day held on August 23 in Los Angeles, California. Lansford explained that within the map, there was a specific area where players who fall into the poison pit would begin to sustain damage, much like being within the AOE of a molly.
Like other Valorant maps, Sunset offers both short and long pathways to reach the spike sites. However, the team that gains control of the central area holds a significant advantage, as it influences the time it takes for attackers to reach the spike sites.
The mid area adds a fresh new take to Valorant maps with its horseshoe shape. The A site will test players’ close quarters combats with its narrow walkways and corridors. The B site has one of the Ascent doors. Breaking this will open up a long sight line from B site to Mid.
Bubble tea enjoyers will also be pleased to know that the map has a shop that sells their favorite beverage. This led to Sunset becoming the first map with the “Boba” callout.
You can watch the full video map reveal below:
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