Tejo has emerged as the undisputed agent of choice during VCT Americas Stage 1, boasting an impressive 54.23% pick rate throughout the tournament. This Colombian initiator was the only agent selected in more than half of all matches and appeared on every map in the competition.
G2 Esports ‘ Trent ” Trent ” Cairns demonstrated the agent’s dominance in the meta. He exclusively played Tejo throughout the season, and his mastery of the agent contributed significantly to G2’s championship victory over Sentinels in the finals.
Why Tejo Dominated
Following Tejo in popularity were Omen with a 40.77% pick rate and Breach with 39.23%. The combination of Tejo and Breach proved remarkably effective, as their abilities could be synchronized to overwhelm opponents. Tejo’s kit offers exceptional versatility that makes him invaluable in competitive play.
- Ability to flush enemies from hiding spots
- Protecting planted spikes from safe distances
- Providing crucial intel to teammates
- Effectively clearing sites during attacks
Professional Criticism
Several professional players and coaches have voiced concerns about Tejo’s impact on gameplay. Cloud9’s Francis “OXY” Hoang criticized the current meta, stating that players can win rounds without gunfights by using utility to defend the spike.
Evil Geniuses’ head coach Christine “Potter” Chi described Tejo as “game-breaking”. Many believe Tejo has contributed to utility overshadowing gunplay in VALORANT.
Upcoming Nerfs
In response to widespread feedback, Riot Games has announced significant nerfs to Tejo in Patch 10.09, which is scheduled to be released soon. These changes aim to bring Tejo more in line with other initiators and include:
- Rocket system overhaul: Players will spawn with one rocket and can purchase a second for 150 credits
- Removal of rocket cooldown
- Reduced rocket range from 55m to 45m
- Drone cost increases from 300 to 400 credits
- The ultimate point requirement increases from 8 to 9 orbs
These adjustments represent one of the most substantial agent nerfs in recent VALORANT history, comparable to Chamber’s nerfs in 2022. As the meta shifts with Patch 10.09, we may see increased pick rates for other initiators like Breach, Kay/O, and Gekko in both ranked and professional play.
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