As we know, the community is currently buzzing over the upcoming Hall of Legends skin line for Faker set to launch in June. This new system aims to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the professional League of Legends scene since its inception. Of course, Faker’s position is undisputed. Even without the Hall of Legends (HoL), Faker is already considered the greatest player in League of Legends history. His fame, influence, and contributions extend beyond the realms of LoL and Esports. It’s not an exaggeration to say that Faker deserves to be one of the icons of Esports, or even traditional sports, over the past decade.
First of all, like any Hall of Fame that has appeared in sports or other fields, the Hall of Legends is, of course, a genuine honor that ends all debates about which player is greater than another. Furthermore, to be included in this list, aside from the votes from professionals (analysts, experts, commentators, Riot members, etc.), one must have made significant contributions to the League of Legends scene. For this reason, Faker is likely the only name that will never spark any controversy regarding his inclusion in the HoL. In fact, many believe that the HoL should have been introduced even earlier.
However, there is still a heated debate surrounding another question: Is the HoL really necessary, or is it just a ploy by Riot to maximize profits from the fame of legends?
Riot will certainly benefit greatly
There is a fact that everyone can clearly see and Riot does not hide: the Hall of Legends will bring in a significant revenue stream for Riot through skin sales. In fact, Riot even tagged “Expensive Ahri” in the trailer introducing the HoL skins for Ahri and LeBlanc. This is quite understandable. No fan would want the skin honoring their idol to be priced the same as regular skins. Because of this mentality, we can confidently say that Riot will rake in a high profit, even if these skins are more expensive than Ultimate or Legendary skins.
Additionally, as some LPL fans have pointed out: “Faker doesn’t need a Hall of Legends to confirm his greatness, but the Hall of Legends needs Faker to establish its credibility.” Clearly, having a player like Faker involved draws total attention to the HoL. Notably, since the HoL was first announced at the beginning of 2024, many viewers believed Faker had to be the first. And at this point, the debate now revolves around: “Who will follow in Faker’s footsteps?” and “How much will Faker’s skins cost?”.
The credibility of the HoL has been significantly elevated, and as the community continues to discuss the HoL, this system garners more attention. In fact, feedback surrounding Faker’s skins could help Riot expand events for players to obtain these skins or introduce updates, adjustments, or even accompanying “accessories”. Of course, every aspect will be calculated thoroughly. But it can be said: even if a few years from now Faker is no longer a professional player, the HoL could continue to generate revenue for Riot every year.
“Cashing in” on a legend or a necessary tribute?
Of course, every honor or title given to Faker will add to the trophy collection of the Mid Laner from T1. The Hall of Legends (or Hall of Fame) itself has been created by LPL as well. Many players, both active and retired, are featured. No one seems to mind this, and Riot China even launched a skin line for the players featured in the “Hall of Fame” in 2020. While it is known that this is a way for Riot to profit from the community, many fans see no issue if their idol receives the recognition they deserve.
The price of HoL skins will be high, but it’s worth it if the legends receive the honor they deserve.
Faker himself certainly does not need any Hall of Legends to affirm his greatness. But the most important thing is: Faker competes to satisfy his passion and contribute to his fans. For fans, being able to own items associated with their idol is also a very good thing. Even if Faker no longer competes, there will still be players using SKT T1 Ryze or HoL Ahri. There will still be people watching his legendary highlight plays or moments that brought tears to the entire League of Legends community. And that’s why the HoL has shown some value, as it will be one of the places to preserve Faker’s moments.
Moreover, Faker’s most loyal fans, who have been with him since the early years of his career, have been following him for over 11 years now. Young gamers today are shifting their focus to younger superstars, such as Chovy or Gumayusi. The introduction of the HoL could also be seen as an action to remind everyone of the great things Faker has done for League of Legends and Esports. As the saying goes: A person truly disappears when the last person who remembers them is gone. And with the HoL, Faker’s legacy has an additional quality place for preservation. Young gamers and new members of the League of Legends community today might need a reminder of how Faker once reigned at the top and that his greatness was not achieved overnight.
The mountain named Faker is almost insurmountable for anyone
Throughout history, even during the period when Faker was not a professional player (2011 and 2012), it can still be asserted today: No player has surpassed Faker, in terms of skills, influence, character, or career… People respect Faker not only for his titles but also for his personality and everything that makes up the “Demon King.”
In the past, Faker made his mark with his professional skills and impressive trash talk. Notably, he wasn’t just a provocateur; he backed up his words with action. Next, Faker has always stood firm after every storm. When the star-studded SKT T1 roster from 2013 departed, Faker and his team faced a crisis in 2014. But they made a strong comeback in 2015 – 2016.
After experiencing the ups and downs from 2017 to 2022, Faker reached his peak once again. He even faced criticism that he was past his prime. But overcoming all obstacles, Faker remains. He provided those who dared to doubt him with a clear answer, as T1’s struggles in Summer 2023 highlighted how significant Faker’s absence was. The iconic plays from Faker at Worlds 2023 will forever be part of history.
Off the battlefield, Faker is humble and professional. There are no star-like attitudes or gestures, nor does he let his private life affect his career, and he closely mentors younger players while treating opponents with respect. As ShowMaker once said: Faker could be the idol of all players. And even if League of Legends exists for another 13 years, it will still be very difficult to find a second Faker.
Conclusion
For some extreme fans, the HoL may simply be seen as a “cash grab” by Riot, or that honoring Faker while he is still active might be a bit premature. However, for those who truly have a deep love for the players, a place to remember the golden times and the ups and downs of their idols makes the HoL necessary. Everyone will have different thoughts, but for the HoL, it can be said that Riot, legendary players, and the League of Legends community all stand to benefit from it.