Gaming

Upcoming Valorant Icebox map changes in Episode 8

Valorant episode 8 is just a few days away and is bringing new map rotations. Icebox is also getting a re-run and some significant changes that players from both parties might want to look out for and use to their advantage.

These changes were made after taking extensive community feedback as per Riot Games, as the map wasn’t popular. Now with the map back in rotation, it is time to see if the changes were worth it and how much effect it will have on play style. Here are all the changes –

Attacker Spawn

The attacker spawns will now see an additional container in the middle. This is done to make it hard for players to climb above and hold an angle for rotation in both attacking and defending sides.

B site entry

The container at B site entry is now fully lifted, providing a clear view and preventing defenders from climbing on top with cover. The box providing cover is also removed. The attacker will now have to deal with a few less ambush points.

B Tube Exterior and Interior

The Tube provides a quick rotation to the middle and B site, however, there was not much info if the fight took place in the middle. Players needed to either cross the tunnel and go straight into the line of fire or rotate back.

With the addition of a window towards the middle, a defender-holding tube can help during the middle fight. Similarly, boxes beside the window were added for better cover if someone entered the tube.

B Snow Pile

The containers while exiting the kitchen door for B site have been repositioned, giving a bit of relief for attackers, as previously they had to check two entries. Now they don’t need to check their back every second.

Icebox is back at the start of Episode 8. Here are all the changes you can expect when Icebox returns in Patch 8.0, starting JAN 8. ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/qrqp3sV3hq

— VALORANT (@VALORANT) January 4, 2024

All in all, the changes feel balanced for both sides. A site doesn’t seem to have any changes as the entry was only a single entry from the attacker side. However, only gamers can give the final verdict on the changes collectively.