League of Legends (LoL) is a free-to-play multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game developed and published by Riot Games. Released in October 2009, it has become one of the most popular and influential games in the esports industry.
Gameplay: In League of Legends, two teams of five players each control a unique character known as a “champion.” Each champion possesses distinct abilities and playstyles. The primary game mode, Summoner’s Rift, involves teams competing to destroy the opposing team’s Nexus—a core building located within their base—while defending their own. Matches typically last between 15 to 60 minutes, requiring strategic planning, teamwork, and quick decision-making.
Esports and Competitive Scene: League of Legends boasts a vibrant competitive scene, with regional leagues culminating in the annual League of Legends World Championship. The 2024 championship, held at London’s O2 Arena, attracted 20,000 attendees and millions of online viewers. South Korean team T1 clinched the title by defeating China’s Bilibili Gaming in a thrilling series.
Cultural Impact: Beyond gaming, League of Legends has expanded into various media, including music, comics, and television. The animated series “Arcane,” which concluded its second season in late 2024, delved into the backstories of several champions and received critical acclaim. Discussions about potential spin-offs, exploring narratives like the rivalry between Demacia and Noxus, the mysteries of the Shadow Isles, and the formation of the virtual music group K/DA, are ongoing.
Recent Developments: As of March 2025, the League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC) is set to return to Spain. The event, organized by Ibai Llanos’ team Movistar KOI, will take place at the Madrid Arena on April 26-27. Fans can look forward to various activities, including free-to-play zones and opportunities to meet players and content creators. Tickets, starting at €20, are available through entradas.com.
For more information or to start playing, visit the official League of Legends website.