The LCS Walkout: What It Means for NA League of Legends
A majority of League of Legends Championship Series (LCS) players have decided to stand down from their commitments to the Summer Split launch, defying Riot Games’ decision to eliminate the requirement for teams to have a roster in the North American Challenger League (NACL). This has left the League community shocked, as the LCS Players Association (LCSPA) remains steadfast in their refusal to participate in the Summer Split, while Riot shows no signs of budging, creating turmoil for the upcoming season.
Understanding the LCS Walkout
The LCS walkout is an organized movement led by the LCS Players Association (LCSPA) in response to Riot’s decision to remove mandatory participation in the NACL. The LCSPA is the official body representing the interests of NA League players. The organization was not consulted by Riot regarding this decision and, as a result, called for a vote to boycott the split launch. The walkout is supported by the majority of LCS players, and they have outlined their demands, including a promotion-relegation system, revenue pool for NACL teams, guaranteed contracts, and more.
The LCSPA’s Five Demands
The LCSPA has made five demands to improve the competitive ecosystem for emerging and current players:
- Implement a promotion-relegation system similar to VALORANT
- Allocate a revenue pool of $300,000 per NACL team per year
- Allow LCS organizations to partner with affiliates for cost-sharing
- Guarantee LCS minimum contracts for the winners of LCS summer finals
- Establish a roster continuity rule to prioritize players on released NACL rosters
If these demands are met, it would allow NACL teams to prove their worth and qualify for the LCS, while also providing financial stability to current LCS players and better support for NACL players.
Implications for NA League of Legends
The walkout showcases a significant divide between the players, LCS organizations, and Riot. The LCSPA hopes to engage in collaborative discussions with Riot to ensure the best future for the LCS and NACL. However, Riot has shown no willingness to negotiate, approaching organizations to reaffirm their commitment to fielding a roster. The LCSPA seeks to ensure aspiring players have a say in decisions affecting the region’s future and that proper support and compensation are provided to academy players. It remains uncertain who will back down first.
Timeline of the LCS Player Strike
Here’s a rundown of the events over the past three weeks:
- May 7: LCS owners agree to make NACL participation optional
- May 12: Riot announces changes to the path-to-pro, including the removal of NACL rosters
- May 12 to 18: Seven LCS organizations drop their NACL rosters
- May 19: Three organizations retain their NACL rosters
- May 23: LCSPA prepares for a vote on the walkout
- May 28: Walkout vote overwhelmingly passes
- May 29: Riot changes League signing rules temporarily
- May 30: LCSPA plans meetings with Riot to discuss the future
Will the 2023 LCS Summer Split Be Canceled?
Due to the uncertainty surrounding player participation and organizational requirements, the LCS Summer Split has been delayed by two weeks, with a new start date of June 15. Riot has expressed concerns that further delays may lead to the cancellation of the NA league and potential loss of World Championship qualification spots. The LCSPA will be in daily meetings with Riot to address future plans. All LCS organizations are expected to field a roster for the Summer Split opener.
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