Map reworks aren’t common in VALORANT, but Patch 11.08 delivers two in a single update, revamping two heavily disliked maps for better competitive balance and to enhance creativity.
As the biggest update of Season V25, Patch 11.08 is set to shake up VALORANT with game-changing tweaks, including major reworks for the Abyss and Pearl maps that have long been criticized for their one-sidedness and odd design choices.
If you’re wondering what’s changing, we’ve included before-and-after comparisons of every Abyss and Pearl rework coming with VALORANT Patch 11.08.
All map updates in VALORANT Patch 11.08
The B-sites of Pearl and Abyss have always favored off-site plays. With 11.08, however, Riot has now made the popular “planting for main” attacker strategy for Pearl and Abyss’ B-sites riskier and more predictable, while opening up new avenues for on-site plays for both attackers and defenders. Abyss’ Mid section has also received major changes to facilitate quick rotation.
All Abyss map changes in VALORANT Patch 11.08
This is the first time Abyss is receiving an update since its release in Episode Eight, Act Three back in 2024—and let’s just say it’s a much-needed rework.
Riot identified that both defenders and attackers were struggling to defend space from the site. Defenders were often forced to rely on retakes, while attackers had to depend on lineup and gunplay setups from main. With Patch 11.08’s reworks, however, this changes drastically.
Mid Bend to B Main
Abyss B-site boxes and platform
Abyss B-site back
Abyss B Tower ramp
The rework also includes improvements to the Mid section to open up flow and enable quicker movement.
Abyss Mid Top
Abyss Bottom Mid to Mid Bend passage
All Pearl map changes in VALORANT Patch 11.08
Despite previous reworks, Pearl’s B-site remained problematic for defenders, who struggled to retake the site against attackers relying on off-site setups for post plant. Patch 11.08 fixes this issue by removing the deep sightline over the site from B Long and adjusting cover positions to encourage more on-site engagements.
Pearl B-site open plant box
Pearl B Long new cover
Map rotation changes in VALORANT Patch 11.08
Besides reworks, Patch 11.08 also brings a major (and controversial) switch-up in the competitive map rotation. It reintroduces Pearl and Split, while taking out Ascent and Lotus from the rotation—so keep your lineups and combos ready.
Check out the full VALORANT Patch 11.08 notes here.
