Every team needs its speedster, and in the world of Valorant, this role is filled by Neon. With her lightning-fast running abilities and electricity-based powers, Neon has quickly become a favorite among the players. However, if her powers remind you of another familiar speedster, you’re not alone, as many players have pointed out the uncanny similarities between Neon and the DC Comics superhero, The Flash.
This topic has sparked wide speculation on potential connections between the two characters. So, let’s dive into this debate and find out the truth!
Was Neon Inspired By The Flash?
According to what we know so far, Riot Games hasn’t released any official statements or indications hinting at a connection between Neon and The Flash. Yet, the striking resemblance in the abilities of these two characters seem too similar to dismiss as mere coincidence. Therefore, we’ve drawn a couple of parallels between the two in an attempt to uncover the truth.
Superhuman Speed
The most obvious similarity between the two sparky characters is the incredible speed they possess. In-game, Neon can use the High Gear ability to channel her powers to increase her speed. Similarly, The Flash also has to tap into the Speed Force, a dimension of energy intertwined with the universe, to channel his superhuman speed.
Electrokinesis
Much like The Flash has the power to create and control lightning, Neon can also channel her powers into a deadly lightning beam that she can obliterate her enemies with, while darting across the map with her superspeed.
And, both characters have also been shown using their electric powers to act as an energy source. For instance, in multiple storylines, The Flash has been shown to have the ability to power up machinery with his superspeed. This parallels the Filipino Agent’s efforts in attempting to energize an Alpha-Omega teleporter that would allow the Valorant agents from Alpha Earth to travel to Omega Earth.
Personalities
The similarities between Barry Allen and Neon extend beyond their superpowers. Both exude a playful spirit coupled with an unwavering commitment to safeguard their teammates. Additionally, their youthfulness and confidence often necessitates guidance from mentors. In Valorant, Reyna assumes the role of Neon’s mentor, akin to Bruce Wayne mentoring Barry Allen in the DCEU and various comic storylines.
Nevertheless, it’s crucial to acknowledge that The Flash stands as an iconic character who pioneered the archetype of the “speedster” superpower. This means that it’s virtually impossible to create a character with superspeed without taking The Flash as its inspiration, whether consciously or subconsciously.
Yet, while the origins of Barry Allen’s powers are common knowledge, how exactly did Neon come into possession of her extraordinary abilities?
How Did Neon Get Her Powers?
While little is known about her backstory, it is theorized that the mysterious element, Radianite, is behind the activation of her Radiant powers during the events of the First Light, much like how it activated Jett’s wind manipulation powers.
Moreover, as revealed by Neon’s voice actress, the Agent’s origin story unfolds when a Filipino scientist discovers her after witnessing a lightning strike during an experiment near Mt. Pulag in the Philippines. This strike exposes a rift in the sky, and while Neon is undoubtedly connected to it, the narrative remains ambiguous about whether it serves as the source of her powers, akin to Barry Allen’s experience, or if she was the one who caused it.
Therefore, to definitely uncover the answer, we must patiently await Riot Games to unveil more of Neon’s lore, whether it be through cinematic releases, player cards, or in-game Easter Eggs.
Final Thoughts
While the speculation behind Neon being connected to The Flash should be taken with a grain of salt, it’s undeniable that both characters exhibit striking similarities in not only their superpowers but also personalities. Do you believe Neon was inspired by The Flash? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!