Hi-Rez Studios announced the Shadows update, which introduces Vatu, the Event Pass: Beach Bash, eight Limited-Time Modes, and upgraded visuals for Jaguar Falls. Plus, the game welcomes a new hero: Vatu. He is the unknown—the terror without a form, but with a name: the Shadow. Wielding sharp Kunai and mysterious shadow magic, Vatu is distinctly a Flank, specializing in high mobility and damage. With his Ambush ability, he jumps at his target’s throat and carries out a swift assassination. He can reactivate it once to prey upon his next victim. Vatu also has three Dash charges, allowing him to shoot out from the shadows – or merge back into them – at any time.
“Vatu’s gameplay strength is well emphasized by his strong character identity as your ninja’s ninja. Paladins’ newest champion combines familiar mechanics in new and fluid ways to create a short-range hit-and-run experience that rewards highly skilled play and punishes mistakes,” Evil Mojo Game Designer Kevin Readen explained.
Additionally, the Event Pass: Beach Bash is made its debut, allowing players to unlock two Summer-themed Champion skins. plus an alternative version for each – including Great Orange Buck for free. The Event Pass also holds Crystals and dozens of cosmetic rewards. Event Passes are Paladins’ twist on the Battle Pass formula. They are cheaper, faster to complete, and quicker to cycle. Each Event Pass has 24 levels to climb through just by playing, each unlocking an impactful reward.
Plus, players get access to Limited-Time Modes. A first in Paladins, eight rotating Limited-Time Modes are now available for free. This is the first in a multi-step plan to introduce different ways for players to engage with the game. Who shot first? In Hide & Seek, everyone plays as Strix with an unlimited Stealth charge. Try and stay grounded in Knock Knock, featuring Ash and Bomb King with increased effectiveness on their signature Knockback abilities.
Finally, there is the Jaguar Falls Visual Upgrade. You can check out Jaguar Falls’ new look in this video. Jaguar Falls counts among Paladins’ most classic and popular maps. Its visual update includes new lighting and retexturing. A new jaguar statue, along with the addition of metallic gold touches through the map, conveys a feeling of opulence and ancient wealth.