League of Legends is set to shake up the metagame balance in Patch 13.22 by giving mage champions significant buffs to their base attacks. Riot Games’ balance team is willing to take the risk of potential overpowered champions in order to push the boundaries and determine the optimal power level for mages in the game.
According to gameplay designer Matt “Phroxzon” Leung-Harrison, a total of 23 mage champions will see improvements to their base attack speed, missile speed, or attack timing in the upcoming patch. This move aims to explore different approaches for each champion based on their existing attack frame and desired attack frequency.
While there is a possibility that some champions may become overpowered as a result of these buffs, the balance team is prepared to address any balance issues that arise later. The goal is to test the limits of mage champions and observe how the meta adapts to these changes heading into the new season.
Among the champions receiving buffs to their basic attacks are Singed, Heimerdinger, Annie, Ahri, Xerath, and Teemo. These adjustments aim to provide players with more options and reduce the reliance on the Attack Speed rune shard, which is currently favored by many mages. The balance team will fine-tune the Attack Speed values to ensure mages don’t feel obligated to take the shard and will address any balance concerns that may arise.
Champions with auto-attack replacements, such as Karthus or Cassiopeia, will not see as significant changes to avoid discouraging players from utilizing their abilities.
Not all mages will receive basic attack buffs in Patch 13.22. Champions like Lux, Jayce, Varus, Aurelion Sol, and Malzahar are expected to remain unchanged, although this may be subject to change during testing. The balance team will evaluate the impact of the initial buffs before considering adjustments for other mages.
Patch 13.22 is scheduled to be released next Wednesday, bringing these changes to League of Legends players worldwide.
Source: DOTESPORTS
