If you’ve spent any time in the League of Legends community over the past decade, you’ve undoubtedly heard the longing for “the good old days.” Whether it’s nostalgia for simpler ability kits, the distinct pacing of 2013, or just the desire to see those old-school inking outlines again, the player base has been loud and clear: they want to go back.
Well, get ready to queue up, because Riot Games is finally delivering.
Arriving on July 29 as part of Patch 26.15, League of Legends Classic is officially set to launch. This isn’t just a simple server rollback; it’s a love letter to the early years of the game, blending the “greatest hits” of League’s history with just enough modern polish to keep things running smoothly.
It’s Not Just 2013—It’s the Best of the Beginning
Rather than pinning the game to a single, potentially buggy patch from 2013, Riot has curated an experience that captures the vibe of early League. You can expect the return of old-school Runes and Masteries, classic items, and the Summoner Spells that defined an era.
The gameplay pacing has been overhauled to reflect that golden age. Modern League is fast, flashy, and hyper-mobile; League Classic promises a slower, more deliberate tactical experience where champion strengths and weaknesses feel sharp, distinct, and high-stakes.
“League Classic is personal for us,” says Executive Producer Paul Bellezza. “You’ve been asking for this for years, and honestly, a lot of us at Riot have missed that early League feeling too… We want League Classic to scratch that itch while still bringing something new to the table.”
A Familiar Roster, Reimagined
At launch, the Rift will be populated by 60 champions—the original 40 plus 20 heavy hitters released between 2009 and 2013. You’ll find many of these champs sporting their pre-rework kits, complete with updated base models that feature those iconic inking outlines and classic sound design.
Worried about grinding for your favorites? If you already own these champions in the modern game, you’ll have immediate access to them in League Classic. If not, they can be unlocked via the new progression system.
Progression: From Salt to Legend
Riot is implementing a new “Classic Level” system—a one-time, account-wide progression track. By simply playing, you’ll earn IP, Blue Essence, Runes, and Masteries. Once you hit Level 10, you’ll embark on your “Summoner’s Journey,” a prestige path that takes you from the humble rank of “Salt” all the way to “Legend.”
To keep the fashion fresh, Riot is introducing Seasonal Classic Passes. These will offer both free and paid tracks, rewarding players with “Classic Skins” (reimagining that 2009–2013 aesthetic) and a new cosmetic called Portraits. These rotating loading screen splashes range from playful doodles to artistic reinterpretations of your favorite champions.
You Have a Seat at The Council
Perhaps the most exciting addition is The Council. Recognizing that the community knows what they want, Riot is launching a player-driven voting system. While the developers will keep the final say on game health and balance, League Classic players will get to vote on future champion releases, skin lines, and certain gameplay updates.
The more you play, the more voting power you unlock, meaning the most dedicated members of the community will have a direct hand in shaping the future of the classic experience.
Whether you’re a veteran player looking to relive the glory days or a newcomer curious about where the phenomenon began, League of Legends Classic looks like it’s going to feel exactly like coming home.
League of Legends Classic hits the client on July 29. We’ll see you on the (old) Rift.
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