Valorant Episode 8 Leaks: Leaked Release Date, Map Pool Change

Please note that the information in this article is based on speculation and leaks. It is NOT officially confirmed by Riot Games.

A major shakeup is headed to Valorant's map pool lineup in 2024. With the Episode 8 launch set for January 10, 2024, Valorant leaks revealed its release date and a competitive map pool change. According to leaks by a prominent data miner, a long-awaited map is set to return from its extended reworking hiatus.

Valorant Episode 8 Leaked Release Date

The release date for Valorant Episode 8 is set for January 10, 2024, with Riot Games bringing in various changes to maps, agents, and weapons. Additionally, new content such as sprays, player cards, and cosmetics will be introduced, accompanied by a new battle pass expected to launch on January 10th.

Valorant Episode 8 Revealed Map Pool Change

According to leaks from prominent data miner ValorLeaks, Icebox will rejoin the fray when Episode 8 goes live on January 2024. However, its addition comes at the cost of a longtime staple map: Haven.

Icebox was pulled from competition in Patch 6.08 last April to undergo extensive reworking. Players were divided on the polarizing map, with some finding its long sightlines and verticality frustrating. However, with months of adjustments behind the scenes, Icebox seems poised for a new and refreshed comeback.

It remains unclear what changes are in store for Icebox. However, given the major renovations to Breeze following its return, Riot Games likely has some surprises up their sleeves. The leaks specify that Fracture or Pearl could potentially fill the open slot instead, but Icebox's long absence suggests it may finally be ready for primetime.

The Staple Map Haven Bids Farewell

On the other hand, Haven's departure marks the end of an era. One of Valorant's original launch maps, Haven has been ranked a competitive staple since the game's release. Its distinctive three-site layout offered teams more flexibility.

With Haven likely exiting the pool, only Ascent remains from Valorant's Day One map lineup. The community is sure to miss Haven's familiar spaces, from the iconic C Long to A Heaven. However, Riot Games is no stranger to shaking up the meta with bold map pool updates.

The leaks remain unconfirmed for now, but with the Episode 8 launch just over a month away, official news likely isn't far off. The update promises to change the terrain of competitive Valorant in 2024.