Drift is the first new Team Deathmatch map added to VALORANT

Brandon Moore

Brandon Moore

Prior to the VCT Game Changers Championship Grand Final, Drift was announced as the newest VALORANT Team Deathmatch map.

A new Team Deathmatch map has been teased for weeks. It was then confirmed we'd hear all about it prior to the VCT Game Changers Championship 2023 Grand Final. Riot Games kept that promise and have revealed Drift, the first new Team Deathmatch map added to VALORANT since the mode's inception.

Drift welcomes VALORANT Team Deathmatch players to paradise

(Image via Riot Games)
(Image via Riot Games)

Each VALORANT Team Deathmatch map so far is derived from an "origin map." This means it is either taken from or designed to appear like one of the maps from the game's standard mode. Drift sits on a beachside, which can lead players to believe its origin is Breeze.

It actually comes with a new map design, however. It is based in location and designed with the appearance of Thailand in mind. So not only is Drift the first new TDM map in VALORANT, it also appears to be the first TDM map with its own theme.

Of course, Drift had to have a gimmick implemented. You'll find ziplines from one perch to another in the middle of the map. The rest of it sees narrow corridors and entryways leading to its open center with minimal cover.

When does Drift release in VALORANT?

(Image via Riot Games)
(Image via Riot Games)

Drift arrives within Episode 7: Act III. You'll be able to play it with the first VALORANT patch after its reveal. That takes place on Tuesday, December 5, 2023. Just update your game, load into Team Deathmatch, and hope you get Drift as your map.

The Team Deathmatch mode in VALORANT has been quite popular since its release. In its first month, over 10 million games were played. Expect Drift to be a welcomed addition to the TDM map pool as the mode continues to be a favorite among the VALORANT community.

Stay tuned to esports.gg for more esports news and VALORANT coverage.