Riot Games Faces Criticism for Streamlining League of Legends Preseason
Riot Games recently announced its plans for the League of Legends preseason, aiming to make the game more accessible for players. However, professional shoutcaster Isaac “Azael” Cummings-Bentley expressed concerns about the direction of these changes in a Twitter thread.
Azael emphasized his nervousness regarding the increase of in-game information in the upcoming LoL preseason. While the changes aim to provide players with more guidance and convenience, Azael worries that the game might become less rewarding for those who invest time in learning the game.
Striving for a Streamlined and Accessible Experience
The goals of League’s 2023 preseason changes center around streamlining the game and improving accessibility. These changes will include in-game jungle pathing recommendations, pre-game rune page suggestions, and various quality-of-life adjustments.
Azael’s Concerns: Balancing Accessibility and Game Knowledge
Azael’s main concern revolves around the potential diminishing competitive advantage for players who dedicate time to improve their game knowledge and instincts. He fears that with the addition of more information, players might rely solely on provided data instead of their own skills and understanding.
Comparing the direction League is heading to his past experience with World of Warcraft, Azael highlights how an extensive reliance on add-ons and weak auras ultimately reduced the game’s skill cap by giving players perfect information. Azael does not want League of Legends to fall into the same trap.
Reaping the Rewards for Skill and Dedication
Overall, Azael believes that the changes coming in the 2023 preseason won’t break the game. However, he advocates for more rewards and incentives to be given to players who invest time in learning and studying the game. Azael argues that knowledge and effort should be rewarded to maintain a healthy balance in the competitive scene.
Looking Ahead
League of Legends’ preseason changes are set to go live later this year, marking a new chapter in the game’s evolution.