Controversy Surrounds LCS Match Due to Minion Mechanic
The 100 Thieves vs. Clutch Gaming LCS match on Saturday not only featured unusual champion picks, but it also sparked a controversy within the coaching community. The controversy stemmed from a little-known mechanic involving minions that Riot had supposedly patched out of the game years ago.
A Forgotten Mechanic
In brief, the mechanic involves unit collision between minions and champions, turrets, and terrain. Normally, this collision can hinder movement and create obstacles. However, intentionally using this mechanic, as 100 Thieves did during the match, can alter the way waves interact. By slowing down incoming minions, the opposing wave can attack first, concentrating damage on the lead minion and setting up a freeze that forces enemy laners to extend past the river to CS.
An Unexpected Reversion
Several weeks ago, streamer Adrian Riven discovered that Riot’s fix for unit collision had a specific ending point. This discovery caught the attention of the competitive gaming community. However, coaches were explicitly instructed by Riot that this mechanic was illegal and would result in a forfeit. Unfortunately, not all coaches received the memo, leading to confusion and inconsistency in rule enforcement.
Riot’s Response
Despite the confusion, the 100 Thieves coach, Neil “pr0lly” Hammad, sought clarification from Riot and was given the green light to proceed. In fact, Riot endorsed the action by allowing 100 Thieves to keep their win. This further highlighted the need for clear communication and consistent rule enforcement among coaches and organizations globally.
However, the issue has not been fully resolved. Coaches, including Brendan McGee of Clutch Gaming, are taking the matter up with Riot to seek further clarification on the rules surrounding this mechanic.
The Need for Clear Communication
While disagreements on champion strengths and gameplay are expected, rule issues should be addressed with clarity and consistency by Riot. To avoid misunderstandings and potential controversies, Riot should make their responses clear and accessible to all teams.
Update Feb. 10 10am CT: LCS Commissioner Chris Greeley responded to the controversy on social media. He confirmed that blocking minions is not an offense, but pinning them against a turret or terrain is. He acknowledged that the confusion arose from previous explanation videos that included both blocking and pinning. Greeley apologized to Clutch Gaming specifically for the miscommunication.
Esports, LCS match, controversy, minion mechanic, unit collision, coaching community