Despite the upcoming changes in VALORANT’s Patch 7.04 that aim to balance the Jett-dominated meta, some players feel that the update falls short in addressing the issues with the unpopular agents Deadlock and Harbor. These agents have consistently struggled with low pick rates and win rates in ranked matches since their release. While Harbor has seen some play in professional matches, he is still not considered a viable solo controller. Deadlock, on the other hand, has yet to make an impact in both ranked and pro play since her recent introduction in Episode Seven, Act One.
It is understandable that Deadlock may need some time to find her place in the meta, but it is disappointing that Riot Games has not made any adjustments to improve her viability. Despite being available in the agent select screen during VALORANT Champions Los Angeles, pro teams opted for more familiar compositions with other sentinels. Deadlock’s unpopularity is not due to her being weak, but rather players needing time to learn her unique strengths as a more aggressive sentinel with stalling utility.
Harbor, too, faces similar challenges as a quirky controller agent. While his weaknesses are apparent and can be easily exploited, his strengths require a high level of mastery to be effective. In ranked matches, most players prefer to choose easier-to-play agents rather than investing time in mastering a niche agent like Harbor. However, in the professional meta, Harbor has proven to be a powerful agent when paired with Viper or Brimstone, earning him the reputation of being “broken.” Deadlock has the potential to reach a similar state once embraced by the VALORANT esports scene, but with the current off-season for VCT, it may take some time.
Riot Games typically focuses on nerfing overpowered agents rather than buffing underperforming ones when balancing the game’s meta. This indirect approach benefits weaker agents while making small improvements where necessary. Patch 7.04 includes subtle nerfs to Viper, Brimstone, and Astra, which are likely to enhance Harbor’s role as a solo controller. Additionally, Killjoy, currently considered the best sentinel in VALORANT, will receive a nine-point Ultimate starting next Act, indirectly benefiting Deadlock.
Source: DOTESPORTS
