Patch 9.08 is going to bring changes to Cypher, who has been dominating both pro and ranked play on Sunset. As Riot Games plans to balance him with the upcoming update, bringing significant changes to B site, Cypher enthusiasts will have to reconsider their approaches to playing the map they consider to be his best.
In fact, for a long time now, Cypher has been a near permanent resident in professional drafts each time Sunset is drafted. His specialization in trapping and securing B site with traps, cameras, and cages has made him the best Sentinel for this map. He can be better than other Sentinels in terms of site control, and he is preferred even in ranked matches. Indeed, Cypher’s influence is so pervasive that teams may design their approach with an eye on how to deal with him even at the level of choosing the agent. However, the upcoming changes will make it harder for Cypher mains to lock down their usual picks, and that is a good thing.
B Site Changes Aimed at Cypher
The change that will have the greatest impact on Sunset is the elimination of the left box at the B site entrance, which was an excellent position for defenders, especially Cypher, to control high and low ground. Attackers will also realize that the box that used to be used to ward off smoke spams at the entrance is no longer there. These changes will not only decrease the efficiency of Cypher’s use in maintaining the site but will also create an opportunity for a change in post-plant tactics.
Also, a new cubby has been created in the middle pillar on B site. This gives the attackers more room to place the spike, without the constant danger of getting spammed from defenders that are placed in B Market. With this new layout, attackers will have more post-plant options, which may reduce the extent to which Cypher can influence the flow of a round to the same degree as before.
Other modifications include the construction of a wall on the right platform and the shifting of the box near the Boba entry. Even mid will be changed, as the corner box will be moved, giving the defenders a sneaky angle to mid pushes. Although these changes are small, they all contribute to eroding the edge that Cypher once had over Sunset.
The Community Reacts: End of an Era for Cypher?
As expected, the Valorant community, particularly Cypher players, have expressed their opinions on these changes. Some consider this the finality of Cypher’s dominance on Sunset, while others claim that the changes are still insufficient to address problems such as the post-plant spamming meta.
Still, Riot Games believes that such changes will make players try new agents and strategies on Sunset and diversify agents’ compositions. Maps that have not been very popular for Sentinels and Initiators may now be played more often as players adjust to the new map.
Upcoming Map Rotation Changes
Alongside the Sunset changes, Valorant’s map pool is also going to be shuffled. Icebox and Lotus will be taken out for a short period of time, while Split and Pearl will be back. Riot Games has also hinted at a new map rotation schedule, and more information should be released shortly. This change in the map pool along with the changes on Sunset can potentially shift the meta game in the next patches significantly.
Patch 9.08 is set to become one of the most defining moments in Valorant’s continuous development, and it will be interesting to see how the game changes once these updates are implemented. Cypher mains, it is high time that you changed your tactics and look for other ways of beating your opponents.
In the world of Valorant betting, every choice matters. Our ranking of the best betting sites will help you find a platform that offers great conditions for your bets. Don’t miss the chance to improve your odds of winning with trusted sites!