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Significant Changes Ahead for League of Legends in 2025

League of Legends, the widely popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game, is set to implement a transformative adjustment to its seasonal structure beginning in 2025. For the first time since its inception 15 years ago, the game will operate on a model featuring three distinct seasons within each calendar year.

The three upcoming seasons will each showcase unique themes that aim to enrich the lore of Runeterra, promote competitive growth, and guide the update strategy from the development team at Riot Games. Furthermore, players can anticipate the introduction of a new champion every season, with these characters closely connected to the overarching themes and updates, thereby enhancing the narrative continuity throughout the year.

Riot’s intention is for each season to provide a unique experience with varying themes and highlighted moments, as explained by League studio head Andrei van Roon in a recent announcement. This aligns with the company’s broader goal of diversifying player engagement.

Traditionally, League has adhered to a 24-update schedule over its seasons. This cycle typically commences with preseason updates in late December and January, progresses with a competitive patch for the Mid-Season Invitational in May, includes a midseason overhaul, and culminates in a dedicated update for the World Championship in early September. With the addition of a third international event slated for 2025, the need for a tailored metagame presents further complexity to this established structure.

Despite these significant seasonal shifts, Riot Games is expected to maintain its regular two-week update cycle. This approach has been instrumental in sustaining League’s popularity and is unlikely to be substantially altered.

As for seasonal events, they are anticipated to be integrated along with updates, serving as prime opportunities for the introduction of limited-time modes and new skins. Riot has been exploring enhanced event tracks that operate akin to a battle pass, making these seasons an opportune moment to solidify that initiative. Additionally, the new seasonal structure offers a favorable environment for the delivery of innovative gameplay modes like Arena and Swarm.

Moreover, Riot Games views these seasons as strategic platforms for implementing gameplay adjustments within a curated timeframe. Discussions have already commenced regarding endgame experiences, with executive producer Paul Bellezza acknowledging that certain scenarios can foster feelings of hopelessness for players. The team is actively investigating methods to create a more competitive atmosphere even in the closing moments of a match.

While the specifics of these adjustments have yet to be disclosed, Bellezza has hinted at forthcoming balance changes that will coincide with the overall focus on improving endgame interactions. Fans can expect additional insights and details regarding League’s future after the premiere of Arcane in November.

Source
dotesports.com