Iso is the latest agent to join the VALORANT roster, and their arrival has the potential to shake up the meta. Unlike other recent additions, Iso brings a captivating playstyle that could have a significant impact on the game. While their ultimate ability, the “Gulag,” has drawn attention, it’s their overall kit that truly sets them apart.
This early review and deep dive into Iso’s abilities is based on gameplay footage from content creators who had the opportunity to try out the agent early. While Iso may not see much use in professional play due to the value provided by established duelists like Jett or Raze, they will likely be a popular and viable choice in competitive matches. In fact, Iso’s kit can be seen as an upgrade to Reyna’s abilities, making them a formidable duelist.
Iso’s Abilities: A Closer Look
Double Tap
Iso’s signature ability, Double Tap, rewards players for aggressive play and quick reflexes. Similar to Reyna’s Devour/Dismiss abilities, Double Tap encourages swinging and overheating. This ability turns Iso into a tank-like duelist, capable of withstanding significant damage while returning fire. However, it does have its drawbacks. Without an opening duel, Iso cannot activate their shield, and breaking through crossfire setups can be challenging. Nevertheless, Double Tap shines in one-vs-X situations, punishing opponents foolish enough to challenge Iso alone.
Undercut
Undercut is Iso’s utility ability, similar to Omen’s Paranoia. It can pass through walls and make enemies Vulnerable, discouraging aggression and swinging. This ability is useful on both defense and offense. On defense, it can be fired at chokepoints to deter incoming site executes. On offense, it can be combined with other abilities like flashes or damage-dealing tools to create devastating combos that catch defenders off guard.
Contingency
Contingency is arguably Iso’s most useful utility ability. On the attacking side, it excels at creating space and shutting down narrow angles. By firing the shield forward and moving behind it, the attacking team can quickly advance through long corridors, denying defenders any chance of picking them off. On defense, Contingency can be a valuable tool for retakes, providing cover for a last-second defuse and limiting the number of angles from which the defenders can be attacked.
Kill Contract
Iso’s ultimate ability, Kill Contract, allows them to pull an enemy into an interdimensional arena for a one-vs-one duel. This ability can be used to negate opposing ultimates by suppressing the abilities of the enemy caught in the arena. It can also serve as a catalyst for a momentum shift, rallying the team around a one-vs-one victory while demoralizing the opposing team.
Final Verdict
While Iso may not become one of the top two duelists in VALORANT, they are poised to be a major player in competitive play. Their kit offers a significant upgrade to Reyna’s abilities, making them a valuable asset for players with exceptional aim. Additionally, Iso’s utility abilities can be effectively combined with other initiators and duelists, leading to well-coordinated executes and retakes. Even if an Iso player is having an off day with their aim, they can still contribute by creating space and making enemies Vulnerable. Overall, Iso is set to be a popular addition to the meta, appealing to both major VALORANT streamers and competitive players.
About the author
Source: DOTESPORTS
