VALORANT currently has a total of twelve maps, each offering unique layouts, mechanics, and strategic opportunities. Developed by Riot Games, this tactical first-person shooter pits two teams against each other in objective-based matches. Whether planting or defusing the Spike, or eliminating the enemy team, players must adapt their tactics depending on the map in play.

Each map in VALORANT introduces different elements that influence gameplay, making strategic planning essential. Most maps feature two spike sites, but Haven and Lotus stand out by offering three, adding an extra layer of complexity. Some maps also include dynamic features such as breakable doors, rotatable walls, or gaps players can jump across to gain a tactical advantage.

The first maps of VALORANT, from Beta to launch

At the beginning of VALORANT’s, Riot Games introduced three core maps during the beta phase: Bind (Rabat, Morocco), Haven (Thimphu, Bhutan), and Split (Tokyo, Japan). The official launch of the game in patch 1.0 brought Ascent, located in Venice, Italy, while Icebox followed shortly after in patch 1.10, bringing a snowy battleground from Bennett Island, Russia.

With patch 2.08, Riot introduced Breeze, a wide-open map located in the Bermuda Triangle, emphasizing long-range fights. In patch 3.05, Fracture added a completely new approach to map design with a split-spawn mechanic, set in Santa Fe County, New Mexico. The evolution continued with Pearl (patch 5.0), Lotus (patch 6.0), and Sunset (patch 7.04), expanding the game’s geography and lore, by introducing maps located on both Alpha and Omega Earths.

Patch 8.11 introduced Abyss, set in the remote region of Sør-Jan, Norway—one of the more vertical and risky maps in terms of movement. Finally, the newest addition, Corrode, launched in patch 11.00, is located in Mont-Saint-Michel, France, on Omega Earth. Each new map not only brings a fresh environment, but often includes unique gameplay elements, continuing Riot’s tradition of innovation in level design.

Different game modes

As of now, seven maps are part of the active rotation in both Competitive and Unrated modes. Riot Games regularly rotates maps to keep the gameplay fresh and to allow time for updates or reworks. Meanwhile, some of the remaining maps are used in other modes like Deathmatch or Team Deathmatch, offering players different ways to explore their layouts.

Where are VALORANT’s maps located in the lore?

In terms of lore, VALORANT’s maps are set in alternate versions of real-world locations. Most take place on Alpha Earth, while others like Lotus, Pearl, and Corrode are located on Omega Earth. This dual-universe concept ties into the game’s narrative, giving fans more to explore beyond just the gameplay.