Split was removed from the Valorant map rotation in patch 5.0, which marked the start of Episode 5. This significant change occurred on June 22, 2021, making it over six months since players have had the opportunity to play Split in Valorant.
As an avid Valorant player, I remember the excitement and anticipation leading up to the release of Episode 5. It was a highly anticipated update that brought various changes to the game, including the removal of Split from the map pool.
Split, with its distinct two-lane design and verticality, was known for providing intense gameplay and strategic opportunities. However, it also received mixed feedback from the community due to its perceived imbalances and sometimes frustrating gameplay experiences.
Riot Games, the developers of Valorant, constantly monitor and analyze player feedback to improve the game’s overall experience. They decided that Split needed some adjustments and took it out of rotation to work on these changes.
Although the exact reasons behind Split’s removal were not explicitly stated by Riot Games, it is likely that they wanted to address some of the concerns raised by the community. Balancing a map can be a complex task, as it involves ensuring fair gameplay for both attackers and defenders while maintaining a fun and engaging experience.
During the six months since Split was removed, the Valorant community eagerly awaited its return. Many players expressed their thoughts and opinions on the matter, discussing potential changes and adjustments that could be made to improve the map’s overall balance and gameplay flow.
On December 14, 2021, with the release of patch 3.03, Split made its long-awaited return to the map pool. This reintroduction came with significant changes, aimed at addressing the community’s concerns and improving the overall gameplay experience.
The changes made to Split included adjustments to different areas of the map, such as widening pathways, modifying sightlines, and improving overall map flow. These alterations aimed to create a more balanced and enjoyable experience for players, ensuring fair gameplay for both attackers and defenders.
As a player who has experienced the absence of Split firsthand, I can say that the return of the map brought a fresh wave of excitement and curiosity. It was interesting to explore the changes made and adapt to the new strategies and dynamics that emerged.
Split was removed from the Valorant map rotation in patch 5.0, which began with Episode 5 on June 22, 2021. After more than six months, Split made its return with patch 3.03 on December 14, 2021. The removal and subsequent reintroduction of Split exemplify Riot Games’ dedication to refining and improving the gameplay experience in Valorant based on community feedback and their own analysis.