You will see a shift in the competitive map pool with the Season 2026 Act 2 update. Lotus and Fracture return to ranked play, while Abyss and Corrode rotate out. These changes reshape your map preparation and agent choices going into the new Act.
Lotus does not come back unchanged. Developers have adjusted parts of the map that previously gave attackers a clear advantage, aiming for more balanced engagements. You should understand these updates before you queue, as they will directly affect how you approach site control and mid-round decisions.
Valorant Lotus Rework: All Changes
Riot focused this update on A Site and A Long, leaving the rest of Lotus largely intact. You will notice the adjustments immediately when contesting long control or setting up a plant.
At A Long, the right-side cubby near the stairs now offers more room. Defenders gain extra space to anchor and reposition, while you must clear additional angles before safely pushing forward.
The area around the A orb also features small layout tweaks. These refinements slightly adjust how you peek, hold, or fight for early-round utility control.
One of the most impactful changes affects A Root. The jump-up has shifted toward the far left, allowing you to reach the platform with less exposure. You can contest long control with reduced risk of getting picked during the movement.
On the site itself, plant options have tightened. You can no longer plant on the left side of the large box, which limits certain post-plant setups and lineups.
Key adjustments at a glance:
- Wider cubby at A Long stairs
- Minor layout changes near A orb
- Safer jump path at A Root
- Removed left-side plant spot on A Site
You can play Lotus in Competitive starting March 18, 2026, with the Season 2026 Act 2 update.
