Riot Removes Original Map from Valorant for New Map Pearl

Valorant will undergo significant changes, with Riot intending to remove one of the game's original maps and replace it with the new map Pearl. Split, Bind, and Haven consist of the game's first three competitive maps, although Split is decidedly getting the boot. From launch, players have been on the fence about Split, since the map play's a bit unbalanced, but it still saddening to see it leave the Competitive map pool.

Map team members Joe Lansford and Joey Simas spoke on Valorant's ambitions to continue with a consistent seven-map pool during today's Valorant Episode 5 reveal Livestream. Of course, the main reason for Split's removal comes in light of a new map called Pearl. According to leaks, the map will come alongside the release of Episode 5 Act 1, on June 22, 2022. Riot gave an early peek at Pearl on Twitter today, which seems to be an underwater-themed map.

Join us for Dia do Santuário–a celebration of PEARL: The wonder beneath the waves. pic.twitter.com/7zR9zMiuY5

— VALORANT (@PlayVALORANT) June 16, 2022

New Valorant Pearl Map Details

The New Valorant map Pearl is based in Portugal, on Omega Earth. More specifically in a town under the Portuguese ocean. Art Lead Brian Yam commented, “The idea of showing the sustainment of cities underwater seemed to be the right visual direction that everyone was excited about.”. Furthermore, the map contains traditional music from local artists and artwork from actual Protoguese muralists to give it an authentic atmosphere.

In terms of how the map plays, Riot commented that Pearl is the most “straight-forward” map released since Valorants launch. Riot further mentioned that the map will feature no special mechanics like ziplines or teleporters, just a simple three-lane concept. The map does have some verticality, as Attackers will have to descend into one of the Defender's bomb sites.

Along with Season 5 Act 1 will come the usual 50-tier battle pass, with sprays skins, Radianite Points, and more. Apart from that, there's been no comments about a new agent coming for Act 1. And of course, Split will be removed from the Unrated and Competitive map pool to make room for Pearl. From now on, Split will only be featured in shorter game modes, like Spike Rush.

So, what's your take? Are you excited about the new map Pearl? Let us know in the comments below or over on our socials here!