The Countdown to the 2025 First Draft
The first splits of major League of Legends competitions are winding down, signaling the imminent arrival of the 2025 First Draft. This international event sets the stage for the year, and to ensure a competitive and balanced tournament, Riot Games is implementing pro-focused balance changes in Patch 25.5. With the 2025 LTA Split One, 2025 LCK Cup, and 2025 LCP Season Kickoff already concluded, teams like Team Liquid, Hanwha Life Esports, and CTBC Flying Oyster are gearing up for the First Stand. To secure their titles, these teams must adapt to the new League Patch 25.5, which is set to introduce significant changes to the game.
Release Date and Timing
League updates are typically released on Wednesdays, and Patch 25.5 is no exception. Scheduled for a March 5 launch, the exact time of the patch’s release remains a bit of a mystery. However, based on previous updates, we can anticipate it to go live around the following times:
- 3 PM CT (NA)
- 5 AM GMT (EU West)
- 3 AM CET (EU North East)
- 8 AM KR (Korea)
Pro Balance Changes
Patch 25.5 is bringing a series of champion nerfs aimed at reducing the dominance of certain characters in solo queue and competitive play. According to Matt “Phroxzon” Leung-Harrison, the lead game developer, eight champions will be hit with the nerf hammer. Notably, Ashe, who has been overpowered, is among those receiving adjustments. Phroxzon emphasizes that these changes are intended to make the meta more vibrant for the First Stand, though he notes that the balance team is generally satisfied with the current meta. If the changes prove effective, we may see fewer tweaks to champions in the future.
Addressing the Lane Swap Meta
One of the major issues in 2025 has been the dominance of lane swaps in pro and high-ranked play. Many players have expressed dissatisfaction with this meta, citing it as unenjoyable. In response, Riot is introducing a comprehensive set of changes to lane swap mechanics. These adjustments are designed to protect champions who find themselves facing a duo from the enemy team, primarily affecting top and mid laners. While the full impact of these changes will only be known after the First Stand, they are expected to significantly alter the way the game is played. Some of these tweaks might be reverted if they are deemed too impactful for solo queue.
Minor Rune Adjustments
In addition to champion and lane swap changes, Patch 25.5 will see minor buffs to Sixth Sense and Unflinching, while Axiom Arcanist will see some power reduction. The exact details of these changes are still under internal discussion, with Phroxzon indicating that Riot is refining the interaction of true damage, damage amplifiers, and other game mechanics. Further updates will be shared as more details are finalized.
Champion and Item Changes
Thirteen champions are receiving adjustments in Patch 25.5, though specific details are not yet available. The list includes Ambessa, Aphelios, Ashe, Aurora, Cho’Gath, Elise, K’Sante, Dr. Mundo, Poppy, Seraphine, Skarner, Yorick, and Zed. Riot is also making significant changes to lane swaps, introducing a detection system that affects turret damage, gold, and experience distribution. This system aims to penalize teams that engage in lane swaps, with the defending turret and minions gaining advantages while the offending champions suffer reduced rewards.
Looking Forward
The 2025 First Draft is just around the corner, and the upcoming changes in Patch 25.5 are crucial for teams aiming to succeed. While the exact impact of these changes remains to be seen, they are a clear indication of Riot’s commitment to addressing player feedback and maintaining a balanced and enjoyable meta. As the tournament approaches, fans and competitors alike will be closely watching to see how these adjustments shape the landscape of competitive League of Legends.
