Riot Games Preps for MSI with League of Legends Patch 13.8 Champion Nerfs
As the highly anticipated international tournament, MSI, approaches, Riot Games is looking to shake up the League of Legends meta with their upcoming Patch 13.8, set to release on April 19. This time around, the devs are focusing solely on nerfing champions that are actively overpowered. In a recent patch preview, Riot Phroxzon, the lead designer on the League balance team, provided a list of champions on his Twitter account which expected to receive nerfs, which includes Malphite, Aurelion Sol, Rakan, and Jarvan IV.
The Immovable Mountain: Malphite’s Overpowering Kit
Malphite has caused quite a stir within the League community due to his kit’s ability to deal significant damage while also maintaining high survivability. His inherent ability to chip away at opponents’ health bars, or even deplete them in a rapid burst, without needing to build damaged items is the primary cause for concern. Additionally, Malphite’s 52% win rate, 12% pick rate, and nearly 30% ban rate in high Elo have made him a top contender for Nerfs in Patch 13.8.
The Star Forger: Aurelion Sol’s Overwhelming Power
Aurelion Sol has been one of the best champions in the mid-lane for several patches due to his massive gameplay overhaul, making him a rapid executioner of enemies while punishing entire enemy teams that cannot close out games early. While his power has certainly made him a dominant pick in recent months, it has also made him rather difficult for players to play against, warranting a nerf in Patch 13.8.
The Playmaker: Rakan’s Emergence in the Meta
Rakan has seen a surge in popularity in both solo queue and professional play, thanks to his playmaking potential and the re-emergence of Xayah at the top of the ADC meta. His ability to initiate fights and protect his teammates with shields and crowd control has made him a hotly-contested pick, deserving of a nerf in the upcoming patch.
The Glaring Outlier: Jarvan IV’s Overwhelming Power in the Jungle
Jarvan IV has emerged as a glaring outlier in the jungle meta, thanks to his access to survivability, mobility, and damage, making him a hotly-contested pick in both solo queue and professional play. His kit is very similar to that of Malphite, which has made him a prime candidate for nerfs in Patch 13.8.
Conclusion
As the League community eagerly awaits the arrival of Patch 13.8, there is no doubt that these nerfs will significantly impact the game’s meta. While some players may be disappointed to see their favourite champions receive nerfs, it is important to remember that the primary goal of these changes is to create a more balanced and fair gameplay experience. As the countdown to MSI continues, only time will tell which champions will reign supreme in the upcoming tournament.
