Massive Changes in Riot's League Ecosystem

Jun 11, 2024

Massive Changes in Riot's League Ecosystem

Introduction

  • Riot announces largest changes to League ecosystem since 2013.
  • Future of the LCS is uncertain.
  • News presented first, followed by analysis and pros/cons.
  • Not fully aware of content in Riot's accompanying video.

Major Announcements

North and South Conferences

  • New format: two conferences for the Americas (North and South).
  • South Conference: Based in Brazil, mostly what CB LOL is now.
  • North Conference: Essentially LCS, but with major changes.
  • Teams: Each conference to have 8 teams (includes one LATAM team and one "guest slot").

Team Changes

  • LATAM getting dissolved; one team from LATAM added to each conference.
  • "Guest Slot": Promotion/relegation system from tier two.
  • LCS and CB LOL teams to reduce size (LCS to lose 2 teams).

International Events

  • Introduction of three international events annually.
  • New event beginning at start of season, merging regional tournaments into global finals.
  • Fearless Draft: Used in the initial part of the international event and throughout.
  • Changes to existing events:
    • MSI (Mid-Season Invitational): Held in July, reduced to 10 teams from 5 regions (Americas, Europe, China, Korea, Asia Pacific).
    • Worlds: 17 teams, with 3 teams from each region and 2 additional teams based on performance.

Regional Championship

  • One final championship event at end of year to decide who goes to Worlds.

Analysis and Pros/Cons

Cons

  • System Shock: Massive changes might alienate devoted fans of LCS.
  • Reduction of Teams: Globally fewer teams, which might make it feel like the esport is shrinking.
  • Potential Team Exits: Possibility of more than just two teams leaving.
  • Domestic vs. International Identity: Loss of North American identity in favor of an Americas collective identity.
  • Reduced NA Representation: Fewer North American teams at international events.
  • LADAM Integration: Potentially forced and may not be competitive.
  • Lack of Historic Rivalries: No strong North vs South America rivalry might delay engagement.
  • Media and Communication: Lack of comprehensive media outreach by Riot on these changes.

Pros

  • New International Tournament: Fans have wanted this for years.
  • Fearless Draft: Adds variety and freshness to matches.
  • Guest Slot: Promotion from tier two leagues brings new opportunities for diverse and popular teams.
  • Potential Team Refresh: Opportunity to replace less popular teams with potentially more exciting ones.
  • Chance for a Fresh Start: New format could invite old fans back and attract new ones.
  • Ecosystem Refresh: Significant but controlled changes might reinvigorate the scene.
  • Avoiding a Full Merge: Maintaining separate leagues for North and South avoids complexities of a complete merger.

Closing Thoughts

  • Cautiously Optimistic: Overall seen as a balanced mix of pros and cons.
  • Call for community feedback: Interested in hearing how general community feels about the changes.
  • Plans for further coverage and discussions, including on Hotline League.

Watch Out For

  • Discussions with team owners and other guests on future episodes of Hotline League.
  • Continued updates and analyses as more information becomes available.