The Removal of Banner of Command from ARAM
The popular item, Banner of Command, is set to be removed from the ARAM game mode in League of Legends, as announced by Riot designer “Mortdog” on Twitter.
Riot’s decision to remove an item from a game mode is not taken lightly. The frustration caused by the Banner of Command in the ARAM mode must have been immense. Mortdog clearly stated that playing against a team equipped with multiple Banners is simply not fun on the chaotic and smaller ARAM map, in comparison to the traditional Summoner’s Rift.
The Unique Nature of ARAM
The ARAM game mode, whether played on Butcher’s Bridge or the Howling Abyss map, is known for its unpredictability. It doesn’t adhere to the same meta and balance rules as the typical five-vs-five Summoner’s Rift game. It feels like a whole different game altogether.
Because of this unique nature, items that were originally designed for Summoner’s Rift can sometimes become imbalanced in ARAM. Warmog’s Armor is a prime example of this, as it allows tanks to bypass the mode’s rule of no recalling and no healing in base by providing significant out-of-combat regeneration.
The Overpowering Nature of Banner of Command
Similarly, the Banner of Command falls into this category. Players discovered that they could dominate the early game of ARAM without directly engaging with the enemy team. By purchasing a cost-effective Banner of Command and empowering five minions, they could send them down a lane, making it difficult for the opposing team to stop them. This strategy proved to be oppressive and challenging to counter, leading Riot to remove the item completely.
It’s important to note that the Banner of Command will still be available on Summoner’s Rift for now.
Banner of Command, ARAM, League of Legends, Riot Games, item removal