VALORANT Split Removed From the Map Pool: Patch 5.0 (June 2022)

Split will soon be temporarily removed from Valorant's map pool, which looks like a move by Riot to keep the seven-map pool system it wants once Pearl enters the competitive map pool. Players remain split in two over this decision from Riot. Let's look together at the details on Split being removed from the competitive pool.

Why Was the Split Map Removed From the Game?

Riot has not given a clear reason for Split becoming the first map removed from the map pool, even temporarily. Split has been in VALORANT since the game's launch, but it has always been a bit controversial because its one-sided nature heavily favors defenders. In a June 16 blog post, developer Joe Lansford said the team looked at "player sentiment, time since release, past and future planned updates, what the map brings in terms of strategic differences" and more when making the decision.

That said, trying to keep VALORANT accessible was something weighing on their minds, and limiting the number of maps players have to learn at once was a big component of that.

"Learning a new map can be one of the hardest parts of a tactical shooter," he said. "Going from 'learned' to 'mastered' is even harder. Doing that across a lot of maps is a steep learning curve. Not to mention all the Agent and utility combinations. That's a lot!"

"The team thinks seven is a nice sweet spot that offers both variety and mastery. You don't have to spend all your time learning new angles, setups and strategies. New players will have an easier onboarding experience. And pro teams get deeper, more exciting playbooks."

Split will be removed from VALORANT's map pool starting June 22 with VALORANT Patch 5.0, and no specific date will be set for its return. The game will have a six-map pool until Pearl's competitive release on July 12.

While Split is out of Unrated and ranked queues, it will remain available in custom game modes and Spike Rush. In the pro arena, Split will also be used until August, when the Last Chance Qualifiers for VALORANT Champions end.

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