The Future of League of Legends: 5 Features We Want to See in LoL 2
The popularity of League of Legends has soared over the past decade. From its humble beginnings as an indie game, it has now become the most played game in the world, owned by a massive corporation. However, as time goes on, League is starting to show its age. The game’s publisher, Riot Games, has done an admirable job of keeping it fresh, but there are updates that simply cannot be implemented within the current framework of the game. In such cases, the next logical step for the game’s development would be the creation of a new version altogether: League of Legends 2.
Riot has not indicated any plans to move beyond the core game, and there are plenty of reasons why they shouldn’t. Developing a new game could potentially split the player base and alienate fans, resulting in a worse experience for players of both titles. Additionally, Riot’s method of updating the game through patches has been quite successful thus far. However, if Riot were to ever create LoL 2, here are five features we would love to see included:
1) Technological Improvements
League of Legends needs to catch up with next-generation games in terms of technology. The game was not originally designed to take advantage of the latest CPUs and high-end GPUs. As hardware technology continues to advance, the gap between League and other games in terms of visuals and performance is only widening. At some point, the game may no longer be enjoyable to play if it falls too far behind.
Updating the game’s technology is a complex task. It requires not only updating the game to meet the specifications of newer hardware but also ensuring backward compatibility to retain veteran players with older equipment. This would likely require a new game engine, which cannot be accomplished through simple patches. Better technology, such as higher frame rates and improved visuals, could attract a new generation of players and keep League feeling fresh.
2) Code Refactoring
Any major change to League’s operation would likely require a complete code refresh. This would be a blessing, considering the current state of the game’s code, which has grown into a convoluted mess over the years.
With LoL 2, Riot would have an opportunity to completely revamp the game’s mechanics and ensure a smoother experience for players. It would be a chance to develop new code that supports the next generation of gameplay mechanics.
3) Enhanced Champion Lore
Riot has done an excellent job of refreshing champion lore and weaving it together to create a cohesive universe. However, there is still room for improvement when it comes to appreciating the lore within the client. We would like to see more character missions, unique rewards for mastery points, and greater integration of League’s history into the mythology of Summoner’s Rift.
Unlocking missions regularly, not just during events, would provide additional goals for veteran players. This would add another layer of depth to the game alongside the infinite leveling system implemented in the current season.
4) Increased Support for Esports
Alongside the game, League of Legends esports has experienced significant growth in recent years. However, the current game limits the interaction between fans and esports content. Enhancing the broadcast technology with features such as user-controlled viewpoints, replays, and more in-depth game information would deepen players’ and fans’ understanding of the game at its highest level.
Improving the tournament realm for professional players by providing them with more data, analytical tools, and scenario-based training options would also be a major innovation. This would allow teams to refine their strategies and improve their performance.
5) Revamped Game Modes
One common complaint among League fans is the length of games on Summoner’s Rift, which can last up to 40-60 minutes. In contrast, shorter game modes like Twisted Treeline and ARAM feel neglected and receive less support from balancing and development teams.
Riot is making improvements to ARAM in upcoming patches, but the overall game mode ecosystem should be reevaluated. Careful consideration should be given to ensure that game modes do not cannibalize the ranked play experience on Summoner’s Rift. Combining ARAM and Twisted Treeline into a single mode focused on shorter games and refining Summoner’s Rift so that matches end faster would be ideal. Additionally, introducing new and innovative game modes outside the conventional top-jungle-mid-duo lane meta would add more variety to the game.
League of Legends has come a long way over the past decade. If a LoL 2 is ever released, we hope it builds upon the success of the original game and continues to dominate the gaming world.
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