Riot Games has unveiled a fresh League of Legends Dev Update discussing Season 1 reflections, Ranked adjustments, and the upcoming arrival of Shyvana’s gameplay and visual update in Patch 26.6.
In the update, key figures from Riot Games, including Paul ‘Pabro’ Bellezza, Andrei ‘Meddler’ Van Roon, and Ed ‘Riot Memurr’ Zhao, delved into gameplay changes, future plans for ARAM: Mayhem, and broader competitive ecosystem updates.
The development team expressed satisfaction with the Season 1 gameplay changes, highlighting reduced queue times and lobby dodge rates, along with ongoing monitoring of the game’s balance.
Queue times have decreased by around 30%, lobby dodge rates have fallen significantly, and adjustments have been made to ranked distribution to address disparities at various skill levels.
The return of certain items like Hextech Gunblade has opened the door for player feedback on potential comebacks of other legacy items in future patches.
Ranked distribution changes aim to better accommodate new players in Iron while addressing skill gaps in Diamond by shifting top Diamond players to Master tier.
Further adjustments to the Ranked ladder, including the addition of more divisions or tiers, are being explored by Riot Games.
Shyvana’s gameplay and visual update set for Patch 26.6
Shyvana will make her return in Patch 26.6 with a comprehensive gameplay and visual overhaul based on overwhelming player feedback.
The update modernizes Shyvana’s abilities, appearance, and lore while retaining her core identity as a half-dragon warrior serving in Demacia’s royal guard.
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Passive – Scalemail: Grants defensive stacks on takedowns.
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Q – Emberstrike: Enhances her attacks with area damage.
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W – Inferno Aegis: Provides a shield and speed boost.
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E – Molten Burst: Launches a fireball that slows targets.
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R – Dragon’s Descent: Transforms Shyvana into a dragon, fearing enemies.
All of Shyvana’s skins will still be available, with a special ‘Leg Day Bundle’ offered at the time of the update’s release.
Champion updates play a crucial role in sustaining player engagement as League of Legends continues its live service journey.
ARAM: Mayhem extended indefinitely
ARAM: Mayhem’s positive reception has led Riot to extend its run indefinitely, with ongoing updates and new content additions planned.
While no new champion is coming in Season 1, a new character is on the horizon for Season 2, aligning with the thematic elements of both seasons.
The Dev Update concluded with a spotlight on community creations and responses to player queries, emphasizing ongoing communication between Riot and its player base throughout Season 1.