Riot Games launched the newest VALORANT agent on Jan. 6 (PST) with a trailer highlighting the Manila-born agent Neon and her zippy electric utilities.

What we know so far:

NEON’S ORIGINAL LAUNCH DATE WAS JANUARY 12, 2022

“It was later confirmed by the game developers as the latter blessed the community with a first look of the brand-new agent, expected to arrive as a part of the Episode 4 Act 1 on January 12.” – Talkesport, January 1, 2022

It was a surprise to the entire VALORANT community when she was released at 12 p.m. Wednesday in the US (1:00 am Thursday here in the Philippines).

Neon was unintentionally leaked on Amazon’s Prime Gaming page. A new background graphic featuring Neon’s appearance was added to the storefront, proving that the agent initially identified as Sprinter was actually known as Neon.

The image was shortly deleted, but the leak had already been discovered by players, leading Riot Games to reveal the new agent on social media.

NEON’S ABILITIES

Photo Courtesy of VALORANT

One of Neon’s most noticeable ability is her sprint-and-slide skill, the skill that tucks her weapons and dash around the map at full speed. As seen on the trailer, she may surprise the enemy by sliding on her knees. She can quickly glide with her weapon drawn after a sprint, catching them off guard.  Additionally, she can raise a double-sided parallel wall that makes it hard for enemies to enter. Perhaps, she’s the most duelist-duelist in the game so far.

ELECTRIFYING ULTIMATE SKILL

Ultimate abilities are the most powerful skills in the game. To use an ultimate, players must acquire orbs and accumulate points by killing enemies. Neon’s ultimate ability shows she releases electrifying energy from her fingertips. The trailer hints that it’s capable of piercing through shields and health. Furthermore, opponents appear stunned when hit by it, making it difficult for them to aim at her. Galing!

I’m beyond excited about trying this new agent. VALORANT’s Episode 4: Disruption is still set to launch on January 12, 2022 along with the new agent, but developers informed the public that update release time may vary per region. Contain your excitement peeps! Stay tuned!

Watch Neon’s full trailer here: