As the League of Legends pre-season for Season 14 looms ever closer, a wave of substantial changes approaches that will undoubtedly redefine the game. In this article, we'll delve into the thrilling leaks and upcoming updates that are poised to reshape the League of Legends experience.
Mythic Items Removal: A Much-Needed Change
One of the most significant changes coming to League of Legends is the removal of Mythic items, which is scheduled to go live in January 2024. Mythic items have been a staple of the game since about Season 10, but they have led to a lack of diversity in itemization. Removing Mythic items opens up the possibilities for creative builds, off-meta strategies, and greater customization, allowing players to tailor their builds to specific situations. This change is expected to bring back the freedom and experimentation that many players have missed.
Terrain and Objective Adjustments
Another exciting change is the overhaul of terrain and objectives. League of Legends is receiving a rebuilt map, and significant alterations are coming to objectives and the map as a whole. Elements like Elemental Drakes, which have remained relatively unchanged since Season 10, may see reworks or replacements. These modifications can have a profound impact on gameplay, offering new strategies, rotations, and interactions. Freshening up the game keeps it exciting and fun for everyone.
Three Ranked Splits: A Fresh Start for Each Split
Ranked splits are undergoing a transformation. Instead of the usual two splits, players will now have three separate splits in Season 14. This change comes as an experiment from Riot Games, and it aims to provide players with more opportunities for free skins if they participate in ranked play. While these changes are experimental, some may appreciate the feeling of a fresh start with each split, while others may find it tiring.
Patch 13.19 and 13.20: Addressing Game Issues
After the conclusion of the League of Legends World Championship, patches 13.19 and 13.20 are expected to address some pressing issues in the game. Riot Games is focusing on reducing snowballing and its impact on matches. With an excess of gold in the current meta, the game has become unforgiving for those who fall behind. Changes to gold bounties and snowballing will aim to create a more balanced and enjoyable playing experience.
Crit Item Buff for Marksmen: Enhancing Fun and Viability
Marksmen and ADCs, in general, are getting much-needed attention. Crit items are receiving a buff to make them more enjoyable and impactful. Currently, crit items can feel underwhelming, and Riot Games is addressing this issue to provide ADC players with a more engaging experience. This change is intended to empower ADCs and give them a greater sense of agency in solo queue games.
Jungle Rework: Balancing Power and Player Experience
The jungle role is being closely examined. Riot Games acknowledges that the jungle is overpowered but wants to ensure the role remains attractive to players. Changes to jungle agency and gameplay are in the works, with a focus on rewarding good pathing and reducing the current excessive ganking behavior. This rework aims to elevate the skill cap of the jungle role while making it more enjoyable for all players.
Kassadin Rework: Improving Accessibility and Competitive Balance
Finally, Kassadin is set to receive changes aimed at making him more accessible to the average player and reducing his overpowered presence in professional play. While the exact nature of these changes hasn't been disclosed, it's a promising sign that Riot Games is committed to maintaining competitive balance and ensuring champions like Kassadin don't become oppressive in the hands of professional players.
The League of Legends pre-season for Season 14 is filled with exciting changes that promise to breathe new life into the game. With Mythic items removed, terrain adjustments, ranked split experimentation, and numerous champion and item updates, players can look forward to a fresh and dynamic League of Legends experience.
Stay tuned for more updates as the pre-season progresses, and be sure to share your thoughts on these changes within the League of Legends community.