Riot Games Introduces Multiple Game Changes Ahead of 2023 League of Legends World Championship
Riot Games is implementing various changes to the League of Legends game in preparation for the upcoming 2023 World Championship. These changes, which include nerfs to certain overpowered champions, are aimed at stabilizing the game and improving balance.
The nerfs that were previously teased in the Patch 13.16 patch preview have now been pushed to the game’s PBE server for testing. They will remain on the PBE server until August 16, when they will be released on the live servers. While some of the nerfs may seem unusual, most of them are targeted towards champions that have been dominating the meta.
Champion Nerfs and Adjustments
In an effort to address the overpowered nature of the newest champion, Naafiri, Riot has reinstated nerfs specifically targeting her armor, damage, and attack speed in the mid and top lanes. The company’s design manager, Riot Raptorr, has expressed the team’s focus on balancing Naafiri’s main role before making adjustments for the jungle role.
Another champion causing trouble in the meta is Rek’Sai, who possesses both burst damage and mobility. Although her mobility remains unchanged, her unburrowed Q’s AD ratio has been significantly reduced at early ranks. Tristana, a popular pick among mid laners in professional play, will see slight reductions in her base defenses to limit her safety as an early-game champion.
Shyvana and Shaco are also receiving nerfs in this update. Shyvana’s W will undergo significant changes, reducing both its immediate and over-time damage. Riot aims to decrease Shaco’s power in the support role through reduced mana regen and a flat 70 cost on his W at all ranks, which will also impact his jungle clear.
Player and Riot Feedback
These nerfs will be available on the PBE for a week, and any necessary changes will be made based on feedback from both players and Riot. If no further adjustments are required, players can expect these nerfs, along with additional alterations, to be implemented when Patch 13.16 goes live on August 16.
Watch the Patch Preview video here: [Embed YouTube video URL]
Riot Games, League of Legends, World Championship, champions, nerfs, balance, meta, Naafiri, Rek’Sai, Tristana, Shyvana, Shaco, PBE server, testing, player feedback, Patch 13.16.