Community backlash against Riot Games has erupted due to the removal of free Hextech chests and the controversial introduction of Exalted skins tied to a gacha-like system. Recent changes to the honor system further exacerbate discontent, eliminating free loot and replacing it with battle pass experience points. Players express concerns that these decisions could lead to a more toxic gaming environment, while worries about the future of the League of Legends MMO persist despite reassurances from co-founder Marc Merrill.
Community Discontent with Riot Games
The League of Legends community is currently in an uproar over recent decisions made by Riot Games. Two main issues have sparked widespread criticism: the elimination of free Hextech chests and the introduction of Exalted skins, which can only be accessed through the controversial Sanctuary system, seen by many as a gacha mechanic. Riot Games has once again found itself under fire as they unveil another contentious change.
Less Free Loot on the Horizon
Riot Games seems to be navigating a treacherous path, and the recent changes to the honor system are unlikely to ease tensions. In essence, players will no longer receive free loot. Honor orbs and capsules have been replaced with experience points gained from the battle pass, a shift introduced in patch 25.04 on February 19. The details of this update further outline the adjustments made.
Riot Games has attempted to rationalize this decision, claiming that the changes were intended to “better reflect player interactions.” A notable aspect of this overhaul is that players at honor levels 1 and 2 will lose access to certain signals and means of communication, with only level 5 players being able to utilize signals aimed at their allies. While some restrictions were already in place prior to this update, the FAQ concerning honor appears to be outdated, leaving players in the dark about various details.
The overwhelming sentiment among the community is clear: Riot Games has once again stripped away free content, and this is becoming increasingly unacceptable.
Players are expressing their outrage over this latest decision, which has not gone unnoticed. Many in the community are concerned about the future of the game, with some suggesting that these changes may foster a more toxic environment in matches. Comments from players reflect their frustrations:
‘The removal of all free content to try to squeeze the last drops of monetization from a game is generally what companies do just before moving on to a new product.’ — voEROS
‘Basically, they are saying “we no longer want to encourage players to behave well in our game.” This is going to be great.’ — Taerial
‘At this rate, they are going to remove everything.’ — Tricacole
‘I have never seen a company that wants the death of its own game more than Riot Games.’ — ioki
As Riot Games continues to navigate a challenging period, their relationship with the League of Legends community appears to be deteriorating. This latest change follows a trend that many players lament, leaving them to wonder what the future holds for the studio.
Additionally, concerns have emerged regarding the potential fate of the League of Legends MMO. However, co-founder Marc Merrill is actively involved in the project and has been sharing details to reassure fans eagerly awaiting the MMORPG.