In recent months, the VALORANT community has focused on one particular agent they feel is overpowered in the current meta: Neon. Fans’ calls for a nerf are finally being answered, as Riot Games has announced adjustments to Neon in VALORANT Patch 9.11. This article explores how these changes may shape the game going forward.
VALORANT Patch 9.11 Neon Nerf: What Changes Should Players Expect?
Since September, the community has voiced concerns that Neon’s abilities give her an unfair advantage. Many fans and professional players wondered if Riot would nerf her ahead of VCT 2025. Now, players have their answers. On the social media platform X, penguinVALORANT—a game designer for VALORANT—responded to a question about Patch 9.09, hinting at upcoming changes.
Patch 9.09, released on Nov. 6, was a minor update mainly addressing bug fixes. However, @penguinVALORANT’s response stirred excitement, suggesting that bigger adjustments were on the horizon for Patch 9.11.
Neon’s last major adjustment was in Patch 8.11 in June 2024, where several Duelists, including Neon, Raze, and Iso, received buffs. A key change for Neon removed her movement penalty while sliding, ensuring her first shot was always accurate.
With Patch 9.11, Neon’s bullet accuracy while sliding is expected to be reduced, which could impact her effectiveness. Her High Gear ability might remain untouched, but players should anticipate potential damage reductions to her ultimate ability as well.
The full list of nerfs to Neon will be available once the Patch 9.11 notes are released. Fans are eager to see how these changes will balance the gameplay experience.
