The Popular Leagues: NA/EU LCS vs Korean LCK
League of Legends has several organizations that organize big tournaments and leagues. Riot oversees North America and Europe, while Tencent handles China. The different cultures and population sizes explain the varying sizes of these leagues.
LCK vs LCS: Regular Season
The LCK consists of 8 teams playing in a double round-robin format. Each team plays 14 best-of-three (Bo3) matches. The 1st place team advances directly to the finals, while the 2nd and 3rd/4th place teams compete in the second and first rounds, respectively.
The LCS, on the other hand, has 10 teams playing a double round-robin format. Each team plays 18 best-of-one (Bo1) matches. The 1st and 10th place teams advance to the semifinals, while the 2nd to 6th place teams compete in the quarterfinals.
LCK vs LCS: Playoffs
In the LCK playoffs, a gauntlet system is used. It is a single elimination format with best-of-five (Bo5) series in each round.
The LCS playoffs follow a more traditional tree format with single elimination and Bo5 series in each round.
It is important to note that the LCK underwent significant changes in 2015, reducing the number of participating teams from 16 to 8. Each organization is now allowed only one team in the league.
Integrity of the Competition
Riot prioritizes the integrity of the competition in the LCS. They focus on providing a fair and balanced playing field for teams. The LCS regular season has a set number of games, ensuring every game carries significance. Additionally, with the removal of super weeks, teams have enough time to prepare for their opponents.
Best-of Series and Adaptation
The LCS format with Bo1 matches restricts teams’ ability to adapt to different situations. The Korean LCK, on the other hand, allows teams to play Bo3 matches, enabling better adaptation. Riot’s decision to prioritize fixed airing times for broadcasts might have influenced their choice to use the Bo1 format in the LCS.
Placement into Playoffs
In both the LCS and LCK, teams that consistently perform well in the regular season are rewarded. However, the playoff systems differ. The LCS uses a traditional tournament tree, while the LCK utilizes a gauntlet system. Both systems have rational decisions and make sense in their respective leagues.
Single Elimination
China’s LPL implements a double elimination system, ensuring teams have to lose twice to be eliminated. This allows for a more accurate determination of the best team. The LCS and LCK use single elimination, which can lead to upsets.
Conclusion
The LCS and LCK formats have their own strengths and weaknesses. The LCS provides uniform broadcasts but limits adaptation for teams. The LCK format allows for better adaptation but is susceptible to upsets. Ultimately, the integrity of the competition should be a priority on the big stage.
League of Legends, LCS, LCK, esports, tournaments, playoffs