VALORANT Patch 12.09 goes live today. The once unstoppable Neon in the old version has been nerfed. This nerf is fatal for Neon. In this article, we take a look at which attributes of Neon have been weakened, and whether the nerfed Neon character is still usable.
Neon's Changes Explained
According to VALORANT patch notes, the initial reason for Neon nerf was that the designers believed Neon's mechanics allowed her to easily occupy tactical positions, rather than requiring investment in utility and team synergy.
Jump Boost Removed From High Gear
The VALORANT 12.09 patch notes mentions:
"Jumping with High Gear active no longer provides any speed bonus while Neon is airborne. "
This min change is fatal to Neon.The reduction in High Gear makes it less easy for Neon to move and occupy positions. Believes that many people are emotionally overwhelmed by Neon's bunny hopping. Neon is arguably the only character that can be used for solo entry without needing any items. High Gear combines with "bunny hop". During gunfights, it's easy to miss a shot and then be killed by a Neon slide attack. After this change goes live, Neon will need more utility to secure advantageous positions, instead of relying on "bunny hops" to outmaneuver her opponents.
Ultimate Ability's Sustain Energy Reduced
The patch notes also mentioned:
“ Fuel will only regenerate with a kill when Neon‘s ultimate is active.”
The reduction in her ultimate duration decreases Neon's snowballing and sustained combat capabilities.We can often see the scene that Neon chases the enemies after using her ultimate.The adjustments will require even greater precision in using her ultimate.
How Neon nerfs change the current meta
Meta Impact
With both Neon and shotguns being nerfed, the pick rate for Neon is expected to drop significantly.The overall meta for entry fraggers will become extremely bad after this nerf. In subsequent game character selections, there's a high probability that no one will pick an entry fragger.For players who specialize in Neon characters, this nerf is fatal. They may be forced to play other positions or roles.
Gameplay Impact
Regarding its impact on gameplay, Neon needs more item support during her breakthrough process. Personally, I think this nerf to Neon is a positive change, since Neon has a massive advantage over other entry fraggers. In the hands of skilled players, Neon can be described as a rampaging truck. This is a capability that the other entry fraggers rarely achieve.
Is Neon Still Worth Picking After the Nerfs?
Although Neon has been significantly weakened, she is still viable option.If the team’s utility is sufficient, Neon can still be considered as a formidable entry fraggers . Her High Gear allows her to break through strongholds and seize advantageous positions before the enemy can react. Neon still has 100% accuracy when sliding. The 12.09 update significantly weakened Neon's ability to engage in 1v1 duels and break through enemy lines solo. For teams with good teamwork, the change is not particularly significant.
