On Monday, Riot Games has released a new developer update outlining a range of upcoming changes and features for League of Legends, with a particular focus on ARAM, champion systems, anti-griefing measures, and new side content. For Act 2, Riot is introducing multiple maps to the ARAM game mode. These include the existing Howling Abyss, a new Spirit Blossom-themed map, and the return of Butcher’s Bridge. Each map will include small gameplay variations to maintain variety across matches.

In addition to map updates, ARAM will test a new “Champion Card” system, replacing the current re-roll mechanic. Players will receive two Champion Cards during champion select and choose one to play. The unselected card will be added to a bench, accessible by other players on the team.

Yunara's Coming

Riot announced that Yunara, the new ADC, will launch in the coming weeks. More information on her abilities will be released via select content creators in approximately two weeks, but it has already leaked, as detailed in a previous Sheep Esports article. Alongside Yunara’s release, a standalone 2.5D side-scrolling beat-em-up game featuring Yunara and Xin Zhao is in development. This game will not require playing League of Legends to progress.

Additionally, Riot will introduce a new spiritual successor to Spirit Bonds, allowing players to befriend in-game spirits. Unlike the beat-em-up game, this feature will be tied to gameplay in League.

Inting detection system updated

Riot provided updates on its inting and griefing detection systems. The company reported a 99.95% accuracy rate in detection and will begin issuing stricter punishments moving forward. High-elo players will be held to a higher behavioral standard than lower-elo players.

Targeted changes will also address specific griefing behaviors, such as the spamming of Anivia walls or Trundle pillars. Repeat offenders in Ranked will now be placed in a separate queue for Ranked matches rather than being redirected to Normals or Swiftplay. A new system, currently under consideration, would allow for automatic game termination in cases of extreme disruptive behavior. Riot has asked for community feedback before implementation.

Improvements to the Honor system are in progress, with Riot aiming to align it with player expectations better. Riot also announced that, for the first time, MSI will feature Pick’Ems. All skins used by the championship team during the finals will go on sale the following week.

Header Photo Credit: Riot Games