League of Legends’ most iconic battlefield, Summoner’s Rift, is undergoing a massive transformation in anticipation of Season 14, bringing new terrain, revamped monsters, and the invasion of unsettling alien creatures. As the gaming world braces for this overhaul, Riot Games is set to unveil the changes on the PBE later today, with the official launch slated for early January.
The alterations to Summoner’s Rift focus on both the core terrain and layout, particularly around the river. Monsters are receiving a void-style makeover, introducing significant features for some of the familiar creatures. Let’s delve into the key changes:
Top and Bot Lane Equality
The top lane sees adjustments with the red side terrain now resembling the blue side. Additionally, the brush has been relocated to the middle of the river. In the bot lane, similar changes occur, promoting balance between the two sides. A new path for the red side to enter the river, complete with a tri-brush, is introduced.
Mid Lane Expansion
While mid lane remains relatively untouched, a positive change involves moving the brush on both sides away from the lane. This modification aims to reduce surprise attacks and make less mobile champions more viable in the mid lane.
Baron’s Evolution
Season 14 introduces a groundbreaking transformation for Baron, akin to the Dragon’s diverse forms. Three distinct Barons may now spawn at 20 minutes, each with a unique pit and ability. The Territorial Baron, for instance, adds a wall to the entrance of its pit, creating strategic challenges for players.
Voidgrub Allies
Voidgrubs replace the first Rift Herald, spawning in the Baron pit at five minutes. Killing them grants buffs, and if you manage to eliminate five, you gain voidmite allies that assist in damaging structures. Their significance in the game’s dynamics remains to be fully explored.
Riding the Rift Herald
The Rift Herald receives a void-inspired makeover, and players can now interact with it in a novel way—by riding on its back. This unique feature allows players to control the Rift Herald’s movements until they charge a tower or wall.
Enhanced Jungle Buffs
After 20 minutes, the Blue Sentinel and Red Brambleback respawn as Voidborn versions, becoming stronger and offering a new challenge. The Rift Scuttler transforms into the Voidborn Scuttler, providing additional benefits upon elimination.
Additional Changes
Mythic items are being removed, providing room for more diverse item build experimentation. Small adjustments to Drakes and the introduction of new music during battles against voidborn monsters round out the comprehensive list of changes.
As the League of Legends community eagerly awaits Season 14, these alterations promise a fresh and dynamic experience on Summoner’s Rift, ensuring that even the most seasoned players will encounter new challenges and opportunities in the ever-evolving world of competitive gaming.
