Valorant Patch 9.11: Ping System Overhaul and Possible Vice Buff
Explore Valorant Patch 9.11 featuring Neon nerfs, Vice buffs, and a revamped Ping system.
Image Via Riot Games
Valorant’s developers have unveiled significant updates in the upcoming Patch 9.11, shaking up gameplay dynamics. The patch, set to go live Tuesday, introduces critical nerfs to Neon, teases buffs for Vice, and redefines the Ping system for better gameplay clarity.
Neon Takes a Hit
Neon mains will face notable adjustments with four key nerfs aimed at balancing her high-octane playstyle:
- Slide Charge Reduction: Neon’s slide ability now reverts to a single charge, down from two.
- Sliding Accuracy Adjusted: Full accuracy while sliding is removed, bringing it closer to the precision level when crouching and moving.
- Ultimate Duration Tightened: The specifics are unclear, but the window to unleash her full power will be shorter.
- Ultimate Cost Increased: Players will now require eight points to activate her ultimate, up from seven.
These changes are expected to tone down Neon’s mobility and offensive dominance, requiring players to adapt to a more strategic approach.
Also Read: Is a Colombian Agent Coming to Valorant? Riot’s Cryptic Post Explained
Vice Buffs on the Horizon
While details remain scarce, Vice is set to receive quality-of-life updates and potential buffs to improve her competitive viability. Speculation is rife, and players eagerly await specifics in the full patch notes.
Ping System Overhaul
A game-changer for team coordination, the Ping system is undergoing massive revisions:
- Mini-Map Pings Limited: Pings placed on the mini-map will no longer appear in the real world, removing scenarios like pinging bomb locations or spamming enemy positions.
- Smoke Pinging Adjusted: Pings within smokes now drop at the edge of the smoke, limiting their tactical advantage.
- Custom Match Option: A toggle for the old ping system will be available in custom games for those preferring the classic functionality.
- New Audio Feedback: Enhanced ping sounds will clarify map-based pings for teammates.
These changes are designed to refine communication and strategy while minimizing exploits.
For what it's worth - we agree that Neon is too strong as well. We're working on some adjustments to balance out the parts that feel overpowered while maintaining her grounded movement combat fantasy. These changes are coming in patch 9.11. https://t.co/hKjatYnENX
— penguin (@penguinVALORANT) November 11, 2024
Patch 9.11 would be quite a revolution regarding gameplay balance and tactical execution. Players will also have the full notes to read, clarifying further tweaks and features as players adapt.
