Valorant Map Guide: Best Strats for Abyss

The Abyss map in Valorant can feel overwhelming at first because of its large size and complex layout. Having multiple angles to hold already combined with multiple flank routes makes it too confusing, especially for new players. Which agents to choose, or how do you effectively utilize your abilities? These are common doubts most of the players are stuck upon. 
If you want to improve your performance on Abyss, let’s break down the most effective plays and tactics to gain an advantage.

Abyss Map Overview and Callouts

The very first thing you need to know is that Abyss is a three-lane map consisting of two spike sites, A and B, and a mid-lane. Although the layouts of A and B are similar to previous maps, It is mid-lane is the center of attention among players. 

The mid-lane of the Abyss map is shaping up to be one of the most chaotic parts due to its multiple site links. The team that takes control of this area might choke the entire rotation of their opponents. This also suggests that Sentinel's roles will be in hot demand.

Unlike the previous maps, Riot has implemented a unique concept in Abyss that is no boundary restriction. Imagine losing your teammate to a fall death even before a duel. Sounds interesting, right? Well, this can be a possible case in Abyss, and who knows this can be a core idea for the future for such maps in Valorant. Nevertheless, this can also act as a quick shortcut, which we are going to discuss later.

Assuming the map overview is clear to you, let us take a quick look at map callouts, as knowing them in the prior can help you to communicate effectively. As mentioned earlier, the entire map is divided into A site, B site, and mid-lane.

Abyss A site callouts

• A Tower
• A Back Site
• Ascender
• A Bridge

Abyss B Site Callouts

• B Tower
• B Main
• B Link
• B Under
• B Danger

Abyss Mid Callouts

• Mid Library
• Mid Catwalks
• Vents

Valorant Abyss Map Attacking Guide

A Side Attack

As soon as you spawn on the attacker side, you have two choices: either take the mid-route, which will be just in front of you, or go to the extreme right to A-main. The best advisable strategy is to configure your team as 3-1-1. Three players can attack from A main, while the other two can create opportunities by flanking from B or mid-side.

The very first possible threat you can encounter is opponent angle peeking from A main. Thankfully, the blue box, which is acting as a defense for your opponent, is spamable. Hence, a timely flash or stun can easily catch your opponent off guard on that spot.

After clearing the first angle, the next crucial step is to smoke A Tower and A Back Side. This will obstruct the opponents' support angle, forcing them to either push through the smoke or wait for the post-plant. Then, clear the immediate left and right corners. Since the left corner box is also spamable, it should not be difficult to clear.

Also Read: Valorant Agent Recruitment Event: Unlock New Agents for Free

Assuming you have taken full control of A site, the question arises of where to plant the spike. Although there are numerous options, it is advisable to plant in a way that provides the maximum angle for spike post-plant cover. A few recommended positions are A Tower and the left corner under A Tower, as marked for your convenience in the image below. Not to forget, your flank and lurk are also in the game.

B Side Attack

B-side attack is quite interesting, as it offers a balance for both attackers and defenders in terms of advantages. From an attacker's point of view, you have two options: the leftmost narrow bridge (B Danger) and a ramp leading directly to B site. Holding B Nest can provide your team with cover against enemies in B Tower or behind boxes on the site. Remember to jump and peek first to get a fair idea of the opponents' positions. Once inside the site, check all the corners, especially at B Link.

As compared to A, the post-plant situation can be a bit tricky in the case of B. Why so? For the B site, there are three optimal post plant holdings: B Nest, B Tower Corner, and behind the wooden box at B site, as you can see in the image below. B Tower's left corner can provide you with a view of B- link, and Tower. However, the table can be turned in no time if support from Nest gets cut off.

Valorant Abyss Map Defending Guide

Coming to the defense, your use of utilities will largely define the fate of your round. Keeping this in mind, let's take a look at what could be some effective pre-round traps or utility setups of Killjoy and Cypher.

A side Defense

The Cypher traps and setups for the Abyss A side are pretty straightforward. Place your camera on the right wall of the main entry, which will give you a perfect bird's-eye view without getting noticeable for a considerable duration. To secure A bridge, use a combo of cage and trap. Additionally, place a trap just before the plant site. Take a look below to get a better idea.

In the case of Killjoy also, there is no such rocket science. Place your turret on the box on the left side of the A entry. Out of two nanoswarms, one can be used to delay the entry and the other one to delay the plant. This way you can buy some time for your team. Otherwise, you can also use another grenade to block the bridge.

B side Defend

The B side of the Abyss map gives an extra but risky opportunity for the opponent to get hold of the site. Ignoring B bridge can cost your team an easy round. Thankfully, securing that area is pretty much easy. Use setups as displayed below screenshots for Cypher and Killjoy.

Killjoy B Setup for Defense

Cypher B setup for defense:

It is worth emphasizing that controlling mid is also a crucial aspect of the game as it helps defenders restrict the attackers' rotations, making it harder for them to switch between sites without being detected. To secure mid, resources such as traps, Sage walls, or even Alarm Bots can come in handy.

Best Agent Composition for Abyss Map

• Reyna: She can be a proper duelist on this map who can lead the team's attack. Her ability to heal gives you leverage to play an extra sentinel.
• Breach: A must-have agent in the roster, as the Abyss map has many opportunities to play around close corners. Breach's stun and shock abilities can clear choke points effectively.
• Omen: Whether it is a post-plant or site retake, Omen can be a game changer. Thanks to his ability to teleport, smoke, and paranoia, he can create unexpected plays behind his opponents.
• Killjoy & Cypher: While Reyna and Breach are perfect for attack, Killjoy and Cypher can make it difficult for attackers to push without being detected. They can also provide the opportunity to lurk and backstab, especially through mid-region.

That is pretty much all you need to know about the Valorant Abyss map guide. Keep in mind that, at last, it is the player's choice how he wants to approach the game. If someone doesn't mind the results, he should try all possible strategies and find out what suits him the most.