Riot Games Introduces “Akira” Reference in VALORANT Episode Six Battle Pass
Riot Games, the developer of VALORANT, has included a special anime reference in the Episode Six battle pass. The reference is inspired by the iconic anime movie, “Akira”, which was released in 1998. This action-packed film revolves around the aftermath of the Japanese government dropping an atomic bomb on Tokyo following failed experiments on children. The story centers around the protagonist, Shōtarō Kaneda, who leads the capsule gang and embarks on a mission to rescue his friend, Tetsuo Shima.
In the latest VALORANT battle pass, this imagery from “Akira” has been recreated featuring Yoru, the only Japanese agent in the game. Yoru, who already wears a jacket resembling Kaneda’s, can be seen walking towards his own motorcycle as a direct nod to the film. While VALORANT has previously included references to other media in their battle pass content, this marks one of the first official anime references in the game. Players have the opportunity to obtain an Akira-inspired player card by purchasing the VALORANT battle pass and progressing through the tiers.
The player card, like all others, will change its appearance based on whether the player is in the lobby screen or the loading screen for a map. When turned sideways, the Yoru player card will prominently display his blue motorcycle. Apart from the “Akira” reference, Episode Six of VALORANT’s battle pass also includes a Dragon Ball reference in the form of a spray featuring Phoenix and Yoru touching fingers. Episode Six is set to launch on January 10, alongside a new Act and a new map named Lotus.
Key Points:
- Riot Games adds an “Akira” reference to the Episode Six battle pass in VALORANT.
- The reference pays homage to the iconic 1998 anime movie.
- The battle pass features Yoru, the only Japanese agent in the game, walking towards a motorcycle.
- Players can obtain an “Akira”-inspired player card by purchasing the VALORANT battle pass.
- The Yoru player card changes its appearance based on the screen it is viewed on.
- Episode Six battle pass also includes a Dragon Ball reference.
- The new episode launches on January 10 with a new Act and a new map called Lotus.
Riot Games, VALORANT, anime reference, Akira, Episode Six, battle pass, Yoru, Japanese agent, player card, Dragon Ball, new Act, new map, Lotus