Iso: A Potential Game Changer for VALORANT
The arrival of Iso in VALORANT has generated a lot of excitement and anticipation among players. As a new duelist addition, Iso has the potential to shake up the meta in the game. While the community was initially drawn to his isolated “Gulag” ultimate, there is much more to this agent’s kit that makes him fascinating.
Although this is an early review based on gameplay footage from content creators, it is clear that Iso’s kit has a lot to offer. However, in terms of professional play, it is unlikely that Iso will replace popular duelists like Jett or Raze. These characters provide valuable entry value to teams, and it would be difficult to justify using Iso as a flex agent instead of someone like KAY/O, Skye, or a secondary controller.
Despite this limitation, Iso is expected to be a popular and viable choice in competitive play. In fact, Iso’s abilities not only resemble Reyna’s style but also enhance it.
Review of Iso’s Abilities
Double Tap
Iso’s signature ability, Double Tap, is reminiscent of an Aim Labs routine. It rewards players for aggressive play and swinging. Similar to Reyna’s Devour/Dismiss plays, Double Tap is tailored for those who want to engage in one-vs-X situations.
Undercut
Undercut, on the other hand, works similarly to Omen’s Paranoia as it can pass through walls and discourage enemy agents from being aggressive. However, instead of Nearsight, it makes them Vulnerable.
Contingency
Contingency, one of Iso’s most useful abilities, creates space for the attacking team. By firing the shield forward and moving behind it, the team can quickly advance in narrow corridors. It provides cover for defusing the spike and limits the number of spots defenders can be killed from.
Kill Contract
Kill Contract, Iso’s ultimate, pulls the first enemy it contacts into an interdimensional arena for a one-vs-one duel. It can be used to negate opposing ultimates and create a momentum shift in the game.
Final Verdict
While Iso may not rise to the top among duelists, he is expected to have a significant impact on competitive play. With his well-coordinated executes and retakes, Iso can complement other initiators and duelists. Even if an Iso teammate is having an off day with their aim, they can still provide valuable utility and make enemies Vulnerable.
As we await the release of Iso, it is clear that he is poised to be a fun addition to the meta and will be well-received by both VALORANT streamers and competitive players.