For many years now, players of League of Legends (LoL) have been continuously complaining about numerous issues present in the “national game.” Notably, among these are long-standing problems, as well as new ones. However, Riot has been addressing these issues very sluggishly or even ignoring them altogether. Examples include the rampant toxic behavior from players and the ongoing problem of “smurfing” (high-level players creating accounts in lower ranks).
Recently, players discovered another factor indicating that Riot no longer considers LoL a top priority. This evidence stems from a mechanism that once excited players: loot boxes, item gems, and rewards in LoL. When these items were first introduced in 2016 as Hextech Crafting, Riot dazzled players with the rewards and items this mechanism offered. However, over time, these items have drastically declined in both quantity and quality.
Currently, many players are complaining that valuable items from the past (like high-value skins) that could be obtained by watching tournaments are now replaced by item gems with significantly lesser rewards. Even end-of-season rewards have been cut back. For example, in the past, many high-ranked players received the Challenger jacket, which is no longer the case.
However, there are also many counterarguments. The specific argument is that Riot has invested a lot into LoL, but this game is a “Free to Play” genre. Therefore, players who do not want to spend money can simply log in and play without needing to purchase any skins. Additionally, Riot has partnered with Amazon Prime Gaming to provide valuable item packages for players. Many also argue that the early years of LoL did not offer the perks that current players enjoy.
As for Riot, they have yet to respond to the community’s points. However, perhaps Riot won’t pay too much attention, especially with ASIAD and the upcoming World Championship on the horizon, along with many tasks to handle for the newly launched Teamfight Tactics season 9.5.