Rune Adjustments Reshape the Meta
The core of this patch targets runes, aiming to boost variety in builds. Underperformers like certain precision and inspiration picks get stat increases, making them viable for more champions. Overpowered runes see cooldown hikes or damage reductions, which could force mid-laners to rethink aggressive setups. As someone who's grinded countless matches, these shifts feel like they'll open up hybrid builds, especially for mages and assassins who relied on burst combos.
Which Runes Got the Biggest Changes?
Buffs hit runes that lagged in pick rates, with scaling improvements that reward patient playstyles. Nerfs target meta staples, potentially weakening poke-heavy comps in pro play. This balancing act might diversify solo queue, where rune choices often dictate early game dominance.
Champion Balances and Mode Updates
Champions like Akshan, Aurelion Sol, and LeBlanc receive tweaks—Akshan's base health drops from 630 to 610, curbing his survivability in dives, while Volibear's ultimate gets a range boost for better engages. ARAM Mayhem sees Augment tuning for fairer chaos, plus custom game options that let you experiment with wild setups. Arena mode also gets refinements, smoothing out competitive edges.
How Do These Changes Affect ARAM Players?
For ARAM enthusiasts, the Mayhem balances address overpowered Augments that skewed matches, creating more even footing. New custom features mean you can test bizarre team comps without queue waits, which is a boon for theorycrafters.
New Skins and Charity Drive
Skins drop on November 5, 2025, including Machine Herald Viktor (free for Mastery 5+ owners by August 4, 2025) and Panda Pal Lux, with Mecha Kingdoms for Darius and Wukong. Notably, all proceeds from Panda Pal Lux sales through December 3, 2025, go to Riot's Social Impact Fund, blending cosmetics with real-world good.
Overall, Patch 25.22 fine-tunes League of Legends without massive upheavals, but the rune focus could subtly alter how you approach lanes and teamfights. Dive in and see if your main benefits.