Akshan’s Grappling Hook in League of Legends was Inspired by Camille
Akshan, the newest champion in League of Legends and a member of the Sentinel of Light, has a unique grappling hook ability that reminds many fans of another champion in the game. Interestingly, this similarity is not a coincidence. Jeevun “Jag” Sidhu, the current lead game designer on the Summoner’s Rift team, recently revealed that the curved grappling hook movement was originally conceptualized five years ago for Camille’s ability called Hookshot. In a video shared on Twitter, Jag demonstrated Katarina being used as a test subject to showcase the grappling hook’s movement, which resembles Akshan’s current ability.
The Origins of Camille’s Hookshot and the Challenges it Faced
Jag explained that the wide movement of the grappling hook was difficult to implement in League of Legends at the time due to its complex interactions with the Summoner’s Rift map, which had never been attempted before. Camille was eventually added to the game later that year, but her grappling hook ability had a more linear movement, which was unique to her. This was likely a result of the challenges faced during development.
Refining the Grappling Hook Concept for Akshan
Akshan’s grappling hook ability, tied to his E ability, has undergone significant changes since its original incarnation. While the arc of his movement remains similar, he now automatically targets enemy champions and shoots bullets at them while using the ability. Although Camille did not receive this cone-like mobility with her grappling hook, it is evident that the idea was refined and perfected leading up to Akshan’s introduction.
Akshan’s Arrival in League of Legends
Akshan, the Rogue Sentinel, is set to join the roster of champions in League of Legends on July 21. He possesses a kit filled with damage-dealing abilities, camouflage, and even the power to resurrect his allies.
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