The Bind Returns: Bind will return to Valorant competitive with Episode VI Act III

One of the original four maps introduced in Valorant, Bind, is set to return to the active map pool starting Episode VI Act III. After introducing Lotus, the map was moved to the inactive pool, and Split was brought back. The reason for rotating the map out was to tweak the map and "bring about a change in the map, strategy-wise." Valorant will reintroduce Bind with a few minor changes. While the information on the map rotated out is not public, it will most likely be Haven, part of the original four.

Changes to Bind:

Most changes to Bind include making the chokes wider for better mobility. Adding additional angles to the defense. The plan behind the changes seems to increase the pace of the map. Let's take a look at the changes to the map.

A site changes:

The first significant change is towards showers. The teleporter is now closer to the shower's entry. This will facilitate faster rotates from B-site for the attacks. They also opened the platform near the old teleport. The change will help attackers to contest the A bath area better. The entry choke connected A lobby to A Bath and A bath to A site is also widened. These changes help attackers enter faster and smoother.

The triple boxes are changed to cover larger areas, providing safer plants. An added elevated box near A tower might help peek over the triple box to create a strong angle. The cubby between A tower and the Defender spawn entry is removed.

B site changes:

Devs widened the B site entry from Defenders spawn helped the defenders to retake. Additionally, Devs added a window near B elbow overlooking the site. Players can the window to flash for entering the site.

What does it change in terms of gameplay?

The changes to A site increase the attacking opportunity from A Bath. It also makes A Bath a little more contentious. Additionally, the changes to the triple box add a plant spot for the A site. Moving the teleporter closer to the bath also facilitates much faster rotations increasing the overall speed of the round. Removing the cubby adjacent to A tower reduces the angles defenders need to check, helping with retakes.

The Devs also widened the B entry from defender spawn. Additionally, they added a window near B elbow. The window and the widened entry increase the contention of the B site after the plant. Defenders can use the window to create cheeky angles.

The initial passive Bind with the changes will facilitate many more fights and aggressive plays. The changes to the teleporter will increase the rotation speed, making it much closer to A to B teleport rotation in terms of timing.

Bind addition and what it means for Valorant Esports?

Bind was one of the favorites of Valorant esports. After Ascent and Haven, Bind was the third most-played map at Valorant Champions 2022. There has been a lot of change in the map meta after Valorant Champions 2022. Pearl has become a household name, with Lotus being a constant name.

With Bind back, many teams will want to play the new Bind. Especially teams who initially did not play because of the map's pace might consider it a viable option. While the map will not be part of league play, it will likely join the map pool with VCT Leagues playoffs.

Additionally, Cypher and Killjoy will replace Chamber on the composition. Killjoy and Cypher are viable options as site anchors, but Cypher might have a small advantage with an increased pace.

We'd have to wait and see how the pros will play the new map and how the changes will affect the composition.

Before Bind’s return we will witness the night market starting next week.

Credits: Riot Games // Valorant

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