Phoenix was one of Valorant’s first agents but has been outshined by all three other launch duelists for the longest time. While Riot has made a lot of small changes to the agent over the years, he has remained underwhelming even today. Fans have asked for more buffs for the longest time.
And Riot has answered. According to new leaks, Phoenix will get not just a buff but almost a rework in Patch 9.10. Set for a potential release date of November 19, 2024, this update will completely change his role in the meta. Let the reign of Phoenix begin!
Valorant‘s Phoenix is Finally Rising From The Ashes
Episode 9: Act 2 is coming to an end in Valorant, and the game is due for more updates soon. Riot Games recently released a teaser video for the next act and it had some interesting details. The main one being the changes to Phoenix. He won’t be contending for the role of worst duelist anymore now.
Upcoming Phoenix Changes (9.10) | #VALORANT
> Phoenix’s wall can now penetrate through walls.
> Curveball is now a signature ability allowing to be recharged after 2 kills. pic.twitter.com/DxQtAs6u38— Mike | Valorant Leaks & News (@ValorLeaks) October 21, 2024
The biggest update to Phoenix’s kit is the change to his Blaze (the fire wall) ability, which will now travel through solid walls. Previously, the wall would stop or end whenever it hit a solid object, but this change will make for very interesting new plays.
The ability will now cover larger areas, making it more useful when trying to secure bomb sites or create post-plant scenarios. This change transforms how players can control space on the map on both attack and defense. With how creative players can get, it’ll definitely be interesting to see what people cook up with this.
Patch 9.10 New Armor Type – Regen Shield // #VALORANT pic.twitter.com/FX3AdLmtL0
— VALORANT Leaks & News (@VALORANTLeaksEN) October 21, 2024
Another big change is that Curveball, Phoenix’s flash ability, has become his new signature ability, replacing his molotov. This means that after two kills, players will get a recharge on Curveball, allowing for up to four flashes in a single round.
This change will most likely change the agent’s impact in eco rounds. With a free flash every round, Phoenix can make aggressive plays without breaking the bank. This will allow for better investment in other utilities and weapons.
It’s Not Just About Phoenix Thought, Riot Cooked More
Patch 9.10 has more than just agent buffs though. The highlight of the update could be another thing that was part of the teaser video. In the video, we see what is now being dubbed by leaks as the Regen Shield.
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This new armor mechanic allows agents to regenerate up to 25 shield points after taking damage. It was initially thought to be part of Phoenix’s buff but leaks have pointed out that it will be a universal feature.
While players’ total health will still cap at 150, this new ability to recover shield points mid-fight is interesting. The Regen Shield will most definitely be a big deal and shake up the meta.
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Giving every player more sustain over long rounds and fights is a big change and there is really no prediction as to what will happen next. It’ll be crazy in scenarios where duelists like Jett or Reyna can rely on speed or healing to gain the upper hand.
Some players fear that introducing a passive regeneration mechanic could tip the balance of the game too far into the territory of titles like Halo or Fortnite, where shield regeneration is a core feature.
What do you think of this buff? Let us know in the comments!
