Riot Games is reportedly planning a comprehensive overhaul of League of Legends, tentatively titled “League Next,” according to a report from Bloomberg. This significant update, set for release in 2027, aims to enhance the existing game rather than serve as a standalone title, effectively functioning as a remake.
The anticipated changes will reportedly include a complete revitalization of the game’s visual elements, encompassing characters, user interface, and environments. In addition to aesthetic improvements, Riot is expected to implement modifications behind the scenes to facilitate more seamless updates in the future. However, the report does not clarify whether these enhancements will alter the current game mechanics.
If Bloomberg’s claims hold true, “League Next” would represent the most extensive update to League of Legends in the nearly two decades since its initial launch in 2009. This landmark update underscores the studio’s commitment to keeping a game that has maintained its popularity for years relevant in an ever-changing gaming landscape.
In conjunction with the planned updates, Bloomberg also reported that Riot Games is undergoing an internal reorganization. However, details regarding how this restructuring will affect the studio’s operations remain sparse.
Originally released in 2009, League of Legends has played a pivotal role in popularizing the multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) genre. The game, which drew inspiration from the Warcraft 3 custom map Defense of the Ancients, has spawned a variety of spin-offs, including the digital card game Legends of Runeterra, a mobile version known as Wild Rift, and the acclaimed animated series Arcane.
Despite its age, League of Legends continues to thrive, boasting over 100 million monthly players. The game remains a dominant force in the esports arena, with the finals of its World Championship, held in China in 2025, drawing an impressive 6.7 million viewers online.
The enduring appeal of League of Legends led to a re-evaluation of the game years after its initial launch, resulting in a 2014 review that described it as “an amazing and intense MOBA with great depth, tons of character, and a huge community.” This enduring legacy is further highlighted by the game’s ability to evolve while retaining its core identity.
As Riot Games gears up for “League Next,” it is clear that the studio is committed to not only sustaining but enhancing the vibrant community surrounding League of Legends. The forthcoming changes may set a new standard for both the game itself and the broader MOBA genre, ensuring its relevance in the decades to come.
