New Valorant Map Abyss Revealed: Layout, Release Date

The most recent addition to the map pool in Valorant, Abyss, introduces a new dimension to gameplay as the game’s initial vertical map without barriers to prevent players from falling off the edges.

Since August 29, 2023, Valorant has not introduced a new map. However, in patch 8.11, players will have the opportunity to test the latest battleground as it is added to the rotation.

Similar to other maps in the Riot Games FPS, Abyss will also introduce a unique element. This arena bears resemblance to Counter-Strike’s Vertigo, as it lacks walls along the outer edges, posing a potential danger for players to fall and perish.

In case you were unable to attend the map’s presentation prior to the VCT Masters Shanghai Grand Final, we have you covered.

Abyss Release Date

The addition of Abyss to the Valorant map rotation will coincide with patch 8.11 on June 11, 2024. This update will also mark the return of Haven to the rotation, while Breeze and Split will be removed.

Full Abyss Map Layout

The Abyss map will offer two spike sites for players to both attack and defend, along with a three-lane design. In addition to the risk of falling off the edge of the map, players will also have the option to use jump pads for quicker navigation.

The central portion of the map will also include numerous diverging routes that players can navigate in order to battle for territory. Players can anticipate engaging in long-distance combat throughout the map, with sniper rifles likely to dominate the meta in Abyss.

Abyss mini-map from the VCT Masters Shanghai showmatch.

Joey Simas, the Lead Map Designer at Riot Games, announced that the upcoming 11th map in Valorant will challenge players to think differently about their approach due to the presence of numerous skill jumps scattered throughout the map.

Simas described in a press release the potential for a Raze satchel to launch an enemy off the map, or for Omen to use his Shadow Step to maneuver around structures in unpredictable ways. This mentality of creating highlight-worthy clips adds an exhilarating element of risk and ingenuity to the gameplay.

Due to the map’s vertical design, players must be cautious not to let their weapons fall off the map, as doing so will prevent them from being able to retrieve them. Additionally, if a player falls out of the Abyss, they will not be able to be revived by Sage’s ultimate ability.

Nevertheless, the spike will not disappear from the arena. Instead, it will reappear on the edge of the arena where the carrier dropped it.