Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about League of Legends.
What is League of Legends?
League of Legends is a competitive multiplayer online battle arena game where two teams of five players control unique champions to destroy the opposing base. It combines strategic team coordination with fast-paced real-time action and has grown into a global esports phenomenon.
Who are the main characters in the game?
The playable characters, known as champions, include iconic figures like Yasuo the swordsman, Jinx the chaotic bomb-thrower, and Lux the light mage. Each champion possesses distinct abilities and lore that tie them to the fictional world of Runeterra.
Where should a new player start?
Newcomers should begin by playing the official tutorial matches to learn basic mechanics like last-hitting minions and map awareness. Afterward, focusing on one or two champions in solo queue while watching beginner guides is the best way to build confidence.
What is the primary goal of a match?
The objective is for your team to work together to push down lanes, defeat enemy structures, and ultimately destroy the opposing Nexus located at the heart of their base. Victory is achieved only when this central structure is completely destroyed before the other team does the same.
What is Runeterra?
Runeterra is the expansive fictional universe where League of Legends takes place, featuring diverse regions like the magical Freljord and the industrial Piltover. This world provides the rich backstory and lore that connect all the champions and their unique histories.
How does the game handle updates and balance?
The developers release a new patch every two weeks to adjust champion strengths, add new items, or introduce fresh content like skins and maps. These frequent changes ensure the competitive meta evolves constantly, keeping the gameplay experience dynamic.
What is the significance of the World Championship?
The Worlds tournament is the most prestigious annual esports event in the League community, where the best teams from around the globe compete for the Summoner's Cup. It consistently draws millions of viewers and marks a major highlight in the gaming calendar each October.
Is the game free to play?
Yes, League of Legends is completely free to download and play with access to a rotating selection of champions every week. Players can unlock additional champions permanently or purchase cosmetic skins using real money, but these do not provide gameplay advantages.
What are the different roles in a match?
Teams typically consist of five specific roles: Top lane, Jungle, Mid lane, Bot lane (ADC), and Support, each with unique responsibilities. Understanding how your role interacts with others is crucial for effective team strategy and map control.
Who created League of Legends?
The game was developed by Riot Games in 2009 under the leadership of founders Brandon Beck and Marc Merrill. It evolved from a mod called Defense of the Ancients, eventually becoming one of the most popular video games in history.