Gaming Blog

How to Get Better at League of Legends: 

League of Legends stands as one of the most popular and complex multiplayer online battle arena games, attracting millions of players worldwide. Its competitive nature often compels gamers to seek improvement, aiming to climb the ranking ladder and achieve a higher level of play. Enhancing one’s skills in League of Legends requires a multifaceted approach, including game knowledge, strategic thinking, and mechanical prowess.

Players can improve their performance by actively learning from each match, regardless of the outcome. Observing and analyzing gameplay, whether it's personal replays or high-level streams, provides valuable insights into decision-making, positioning, and objective control. It also highlights the importance of understanding the current meta-game, which refers to the most effective strategies and champions at any given time.

Mastery of individual champions and roles is essential to climbing ranks in League of Legends. Players should focus on a select pool of champions to become highly proficient, rather than spreading their efforts thinly across many. Communicating effectively with teammates and adapting to the dynamics of each game also dramatically influence one's win rate. Continuous learning and application of these practices ultimately lead to substantial improvements in a player's capabilities.

Understanding the Basics

To excel in League of Legends, one must grasp the core gameplay elements and the strategic depth they offer.

Game Objectives

The primary objective in League of Legends is to destroy the enemy Nexus. To reach the Nexus, a team must first eliminate turrets and inhibitors located along three lanes: top, middle, and bottom.

• Nexus: The main structure, destruction leads to victory.
• Turrets: Defensive structures, provides gold and map control when destroyed.
• Inhibitors: Structures that, when destroyed, allow more powerful minions to spawn for the attacking team.

Champion Roles

League of Legends features five main champion roles, each with unique responsibilities and playstyles. Understanding these roles enables players to contribute effectively to their team's success.

RoleDescriptionTop LanerOften tanky or bruiser champions; controls the top lane and engages or disrupts in team fights.Mid LanerTypically mages or assassins; focuses on burst damage and roaming to other lanes.JunglerMingles between lanes, securing neutral objectives and ganking to assist lanes.ADC (Attack Damage Carry)Ranged champions who deal sustained damage, often protected by the Support.SupportHelps ADC in the bottom lane, provides vision, crowd control, and vital utility.

Summoner Spells

Players choose two Summoner Spells, providing crucial in-game abilities. The selection of these spells varies based on champion role, personal strategy, and match requirements.

• Flash: Teleports the champion a short distance, used for escaping or engaging.
• Smite: A must-have for Junglers; used to deal true damage to monsters or enemy minions.
• Ignite: Offers damage over time and healing reduction, suitable for aggressive play.
• Heal: Provides instant health for the user and a targeted ally, as well as a brief movement speed increase.

Itemization

Proper itemization is crucial to maximize a champion's effectiveness. Items are purchased with gold earned during the match and should complement the champion's role, abilities, and team needs.

• Starting Items: Initial items that offer a blend of sustain, damage, or utility.
• Core Items: Important for a champion's build, providing significant stat boosts or abilities.
• Situational Items: Chosen based on the specific needs of a match, such as defense against certain champions.

Improving Mechanical Skills

To excel in League of Legends, a player must develop exceptional mechanical skills which include precision in last hitting, strategic positioning, and mastering skill shots.

Last Hitting

Last hitting is a fundamental skill that involves striking enemy minions to deliver the killing blow, thereby earning gold without pushing the lane too aggressively. Players should:

• Practice Timing: Use a custom game to practice the timing of champion auto-attacks.
• Understand Minion Health: Pay attention to how minion health depletes to anticipate when to last hit.

Positioning

Effective positioning keeps a champion safe while allowing them to exert influence over the game. This involves:

• Map Awareness: Constantly check the minimap to maintain awareness of enemy movements.
• Understanding Champion Roles: Tanks should position themselves to protect carries, while damage dealers need to position to maximize their output without overextending.

Skill Shots

Skill shots require precise aiming and timing as these abilities can be dodged by opponents. To improve skill shots:

• Learn Ability Ranges: Familiarize oneself with the range indicators of a champion's abilities.
• Anticipate Enemy Movements: Predict where an opponent will move to increase the chance of landing skill shots.

Strategic Play

Strategic play in League of Legends hinges on mastering map awareness, controlling objectives, and maintaining vision. Excelling in these areas allows players to make informed decisions, secure advantages, and apply pressure on the opposing team.

Map Awareness

Map awareness is the ability to track both allies and enemies on the map. Players should consistently glance at the mini-map to gauge enemy positions. Key habits to improve map awareness include:

• Checking the mini-map every 3-5 seconds
• Noting missing enemy champions which could indicate a potential gank or objective control play

Objective Control

Objective control refers to prioritizing and securing in-game objectives like Dragon, Baron Nashor, and turrets. These objectives can bestow significant advantages. Players should focus on:

• Timings for Dragon and Baron spawn
• Preparing for these objectives by pushing lanes and establishing control beforehand

Warding and Vision

Warding and vision are crucial for maintaining map control and making safe plays. Effective warding strategies involve:

• Placing wards at key choke points and jungle entrances
• Utilizing both Stealth Wards (for general vision) and Control Wards (to deny enemy vision)
• Regularly purchasing and upgrading the Warding Totem or the Oracle Alteration

Communication and Teamwork

Effective communication and teamwork are critical components for success in League of Legends. They enable players to strategize, make informed decisions, and operate cohesively as a unit.

Pinging and Alerts

Players should utilize the in-game pinging system to convey quick and precise information. For example:

• Danger Ping: Indicates threats like enemy ganks.
• On My Way Ping: Signals an ally's approach for support.
• Assistance Ping: Requests help from teammates.

Judicious use of these pings can prevent overextending and improve map awareness.

Team Fight Coordination

Coordinating team fights requires clear communication of targets and intentions. Key points include:

• Primary Target: Ensure all members understand who the priority target is.
• Fight or Retreat: Call out whether to engage fully in the fight or to retreat.

Clear, concise communication during team fights can be the difference between victory and defeat.

Adapting to the Meta

Adapting to the meta is crucial for players looking to improve in League of Legends. One must consider current champion strengths and optimal item builds to maximize success.

Champion Picks

Players should monitor patch notes for direct changes to champions or indirectly through adjustments to the game environment, such as items or map features. They can use the following table to keep track of recent champion win rates and pick rates in different roles:

RoleTop Win Rate ChampionsTop Pick Rate ChampionsTop LaneChampion AChampion BJungleChampion CChampion DMid LaneChampion EChampion FBottom LaneChampion GChampion HSupportChampion IChampion J

Pro play trends often indicate effective champions worth learning. Players should also consider their own comfort and skill level with champions when making selections.

Item Build Adjustments

Every patch can bring changes to items which can alter their efficiency. Players should not stick rigidly to one build path; rather, they should:

• Analyze statistics on items' current win rates.
• Consider adapting items based on their team composition and the enemy team's choices.

Effective item builds address the current game state and strategize around objectives like Dragon, Baron, and turrets. Here is an example list of aspects to consider for item builds:

• Enemy Composition: Building armor against a team with high AD (Attack Damage).
• Objective Control: Items that provide control or sustain, suitable for taking or contesting objectives.
• Game Timing: Early-game items for snowballing or scaling items for late-game impact.

Selecting an optimal mix of items is just as important as choosing the right champions and can often determine the outcome of a match.

Analyzing Gameplay

Improving at League of Legends involves studying one's own gameplay to identify strengths and weaknesses. Players can employ specific methods to enhance their strategic understanding and in-game decision-making.

Replay Reviews

Players should regularly review replays of their matches to observe their performance with a critical eye. It's important to focus on key moments such as deaths, kills, and objective control. A table can aid in structuring this analysis:

MomentDecision MadeOutcomeAlternative ActionsDeath near DragonEngaged without visionGave up DragonWard and wait for teamSecured a kill in laneAggressive flash playGained lane advantageCould have zoned without risking

During reviews, they should also assess their lane management—when and how they push or freeze the lane—and their map awareness to improve overall gameplay.

Professional Strategy Analysis

Analyzing strategies from professional play can provide players with insights into optimal playstyles and meta-game shifts. Players should make notes on:

• Champion picks and bans: Understanding the current meta.
• Team compositions: Synergies and win conditions.
• Early game strategies: Lane assignments and jungle pathing.
• Objective control: Rotation and vision setup around objectives like Dragon, Baron, and turrets.

By dissecting professional matches, players can learn to anticipate enemy moves, better coordinate with their team, and execute high-level strategies.

Mindset and Attitude

Maintaining a positive mindset and adaptable attitude is crucial for improving at League of Legends.

Dealing with Defeat

Defeat in League of Legends is inevitable, but how a player responds to loss is pivotal. A constructive approach involves analyzing replays to identify missteps. Key elements include:

• Objective Assessment: Review mistakes without self-criticism to understand where and why things went wrong.
• Emotion Management: Keeping emotions in check to avoid tilt, which can lead to a string of losses.

Continuous Learning

Players who excel in League of Legends commit to lifelong learning. Constant improvement is achieved through:

• Meta Mastery: Staying informed about current patches, strong champion picks, and successful strategies.
• Skill Development: Regular practice of mechanics, such as last-hitting and map awareness, enhances in-game performance.

Additional Resources

Exploring additional resources can significantly improve a player's understanding and performance in League of Legends. Players should utilize comprehensive guides and engage with the community through forums for a more in-depth learning experience.

Guides and Tutorials

Guides and Tutorials offer structured and detailed instructions for every aspect of the game. These resources can be found on:

• Websites: Mobafire: Features champion guides and strategy tips.ProGuides: Offers video tutorials by high-elo players and professionals.
• Mobafire: Features champion guides and strategy tips.
• ProGuides: Offers video tutorials by high-elo players and professionals.
• YouTube Channels: Skill Capped Challenger LoL Guides: Provides high-quality tutorial videos.LoL Esports: Contains VODs of professional games showcasing high-level play.
• Skill Capped Challenger LoL Guides: Provides high-quality tutorial videos.
• LoL Esports: Contains VODs of professional games showcasing high-level play.

Community and Forums

Community and Forums are where players can discuss strategies, ask questions, and share experiences. Notable forums include:

• Reddit: /r/leagueoflegends: General discussion about League of Legends./r/summonerschool: Dedicated to helping players improve their skills.
• /r/leagueoflegends: General discussion about League of Legends.
• /r/summonerschool: Dedicated to helping players improve their skills.
• Official Riot Forums: League of Legends Boards: Official platform to discuss the game with fellow players.
• League of Legends Boards: Official platform to discuss the game with fellow players.

Players should utilize these forums to stay updated on the latest patches, meta changes, and to seek advice from more experienced summoners.

Players can improve their performance by actively learning from each match, regardless of the outcome. Observing and analyzing gameplay, whether it's personal replays or high-level streams, provides valuable insights into decision-making, positioning, and objective control. It also highlights the importance of understanding the current meta-game, which refers to the most effective strategies and champions at any given time.Mastery of individual champions and roles is essential to climbing ranks in League of Legends. Players should focus on a select pool of champions to become highly proficient, rather than spreading their efforts thinly across many. Communicating effectively with teammates and adapting to the dynamics of each game also dramatically influence one's win rate. Continuous learning and application of these practices ultimately lead to substantial improvements in a player's capabilities.

Understanding the Basics

To excel in League of Legends, one must grasp the core gameplay elements and the strategic depth they offer.

Game Objectives

The primary objective in League of Legends is to destroy the enemy Nexus. To reach the Nexus, a team must first eliminate turrets and inhibitors located along three lanes: top, middle, and bottom.

• Nexus: The main structure, destruction leads to victory.
• Turrets: Defensive structures, provides gold and map control when destroyed.
• Inhibitors: Structures that, when destroyed, allow more powerful minions to spawn for the attacking team.

Champion Roles

League of Legends features five main champion roles, each with unique responsibilities and playstyles. Understanding these roles enables players to contribute effectively to their team's success.RoleDescriptionTop LanerOften tanky or bruiser champions; controls the top lane and engages or disrupts in team fights.Mid LanerTypically mages or assassins; focuses on burst damage and roaming to other lanes.JunglerMingles between lanes, securing neutral objectives and ganking to assist lanes.ADC (Attack Damage Carry)Ranged champions who deal sustained damage, often protected by the Support.SupportHelps ADC in the bottom lane, provides vision, crowd control, and vital utility.

Summoner Spells

Players choose two Summoner Spells, providing crucial in-game abilities. The selection of these spells varies based on champion role, personal strategy, and match requirements.

• Flash: Teleports the champion a short distance, used for escaping or engaging.
• Smite: A must-have for Junglers; used to deal true damage to monsters or enemy minions.
• Ignite: Offers damage over time and healing reduction, suitable for aggressive play.
• Heal: Provides instant health for the user and a targeted ally, as well as a brief movement speed increase.

Itemization

Proper itemization is crucial to maximize a champion's effectiveness. Items are purchased with gold earned during the match and should complement the champion's role, abilities, and team needs.

• Starting Items: Initial items that offer a blend of sustain, damage, or utility.
• Core Items: Important for a champion's build, providing significant stat boosts or abilities.
• Situational Items: Chosen based on the specific needs of a match, such as defense against certain champions.

Improving Mechanical Skills

To excel in League of Legends, a player must develop exceptional mechanical skills which include precision in last hitting, strategic positioning, and mastering skill shots.

Last Hitting

Last hitting is a fundamental skill that involves striking enemy minions to deliver the killing blow, thereby earning gold without pushing the lane too aggressively. Players should:

• Practice Timing: Use a custom game to practice the timing of champion auto-attacks.
• Understand Minion Health: Pay attention to how minion health depletes to anticipate when to last hit.

Positioning

Effective positioning keeps a champion safe while allowing them to exert influence over the game. This involves:

• Map Awareness: Constantly check the minimap to maintain awareness of enemy movements.
• Understanding Champion Roles: Tanks should position themselves to protect carries, while damage dealers need to position to maximize their output without overextending.

Skill Shots

Skill shots require precise aiming and timing as these abilities can be dodged by opponents. To improve skill shots:

• Learn Ability Ranges: Familiarize oneself with the range indicators of a champion's abilities.
• Anticipate Enemy Movements: Predict where an opponent will move to increase the chance of landing skill shots.

Strategic Play

Strategic play in League of Legends hinges on mastering map awareness, controlling objectives, and maintaining vision. Excelling in these areas allows players to make informed decisions, secure advantages, and apply pressure on the opposing team.

Map Awareness

Map awareness is the ability to track both allies and enemies on the map. Players should consistently glance at the mini-map to gauge enemy positions. Key habits to improve map awareness include:

• Checking the mini-map every 3-5 seconds
• Noting missing enemy champions which could indicate a potential gank or objective control play

Objective Control

Objective control refers to prioritizing and securing in-game objectives like Dragon, Baron Nashor, and turrets. These objectives can bestow significant advantages. Players should focus on:

• Timings for Dragon and Baron spawn
• Preparing for these objectives by pushing lanes and establishing control beforehand

Warding and Vision

Warding and vision are crucial for maintaining map control and making safe plays. Effective warding strategies involve:

• Placing wards at key choke points and jungle entrances
• Utilizing both Stealth Wards (for general vision) and Control Wards (to deny enemy vision)
• Regularly purchasing and upgrading the Warding Totem or the Oracle Alteration

Communication and Teamwork

Effective communication and teamwork are critical components for success in League of Legends. They enable players to strategize, make informed decisions, and operate cohesively as a unit.

Pinging and Alerts

Players should utilize the in-game pinging system to convey quick and precise information. For example:

• Danger Ping: Indicates threats like enemy ganks.
• On My Way Ping: Signals an ally's approach for support.
• Assistance Ping: Requests help from teammates.

Judicious use of these pings can prevent overextending and improve map awareness.

Team Fight Coordination

Coordinating team fights requires clear communication of targets and intentions. Key points include:

• Primary Target: Ensure all members understand who the priority target is.
• Fight or Retreat: Call out whether to engage fully in the fight or to retreat.

Clear, concise communication during team fights can be the difference between victory and defeat.

Adapting to the Meta

Adapting to the meta is crucial for players looking to improve in League of Legends. One must consider current champion strengths and optimal item builds to maximize success.

Champion Picks

Players should monitor patch notes for direct changes to champions or indirectly through adjustments to the game environment, such as items or map features. They can use the following table to keep track of recent champion win rates and pick rates in different roles:RoleTop Win Rate ChampionsTop Pick Rate ChampionsTop LaneChampion AChampion BJungleChampion CChampion DMid LaneChampion EChampion FBottom LaneChampion GChampion HSupportChampion IChampion JPro play trends often indicate effective champions worth learning. Players should also consider their own comfort and skill level with champions when making selections.

Item Build Adjustments

Every patch can bring changes to items which can alter their efficiency. Players should not stick rigidly to one build path; rather, they should:

• Analyze statistics on items' current win rates.
• Consider adapting items based on their team composition and the enemy team's choices.

Effective item builds address the current game state and strategize around objectives like Dragon, Baron, and turrets. Here is an example list of aspects to consider for item builds:

• Enemy Composition: Building armor against a team with high AD (Attack Damage).
• Objective Control: Items that provide control or sustain, suitable for taking or contesting objectives.
• Game Timing: Early-game items for snowballing or scaling items for late-game impact.

Selecting an optimal mix of items is just as important as choosing the right champions and can often determine the outcome of a match.

Analyzing Gameplay

Improving at League of Legends involves studying one's own gameplay to identify strengths and weaknesses. Players can employ specific methods to enhance their strategic understanding and in-game decision-making.

Replay Reviews

Players should regularly review replays of their matches to observe their performance with a critical eye. It's important to focus on key moments such as deaths, kills, and objective control. A table can aid in structuring this analysis:MomentDecision MadeOutcomeAlternative ActionsDeath near DragonEngaged without visionGave up DragonWard and wait for teamSecured a kill in laneAggressive flash playGained lane advantageCould have zoned without riskingDuring reviews, they should also assess their lane management—when and how they push or freeze the lane—and their map awareness to improve overall gameplay.

Professional Strategy Analysis

Analyzing strategies from professional play can provide players with insights into optimal playstyles and meta-game shifts. Players should make notes on:

• Champion picks and bans: Understanding the current meta.
• Team compositions: Synergies and win conditions.
• Early game strategies: Lane assignments and jungle pathing.
• Objective control: Rotation and vision setup around objectives like Dragon, Baron, and turrets.

By dissecting professional matches, players can learn to anticipate enemy moves, better coordinate with their team, and execute high-level strategies.

Mindset and Attitude

Maintaining a positive mindset and adaptable attitude is crucial for improving at League of Legends.

Dealing with Defeat

Defeat in League of Legends is inevitable, but how a player responds to loss is pivotal. A constructive approach involves analyzing replays to identify missteps. Key elements include:

• Objective Assessment: Review mistakes without self-criticism to understand where and why things went wrong.
• Emotion Management: Keeping emotions in check to avoid tilt, which can lead to a string of losses.

Continuous Learning

Players who excel in League of Legends commit to lifelong learning. Constant improvement is achieved through:

• Meta Mastery: Staying informed about current patches, strong champion picks, and successful strategies.
• Skill Development: Regular practice of mechanics, such as last-hitting and map awareness, enhances in-game performance.

Additional Resources

Exploring additional resources can significantly improve a player's understanding and performance in League of Legends. Players should utilize comprehensive guides and engage with the community through forums for a more in-depth learning experience.

Guides and Tutorials

Guides and Tutorials offer structured and detailed instructions for every aspect of the game. These resources can be found on:

• Websites:Mobafire: Features champion guides and strategy tips.ProGuides: Offers video tutorials by high-elo players and professionals.
• Mobafire: Features champion guides and strategy tips.
• ProGuides: Offers video tutorials by high-elo players and professionals.
• Mobafire: Features champion guides and strategy tips.
• ProGuides: Offers video tutorials by high-elo players and professionals.
• YouTube Channels:Skill Capped Challenger LoL Guides: Provides high-quality tutorial videos.LoL Esports: Contains VODs of professional games showcasing high-level play.
• Skill Capped Challenger LoL Guides: Provides high-quality tutorial videos.
• LoL Esports: Contains VODs of professional games showcasing high-level play.
• Skill Capped Challenger LoL Guides: Provides high-quality tutorial videos.
• LoL Esports: Contains VODs of professional games showcasing high-level play.

Community and Forums

Community and Forums are where players can discuss strategies, ask questions, and share experiences. Notable forums include:

• Reddit:/r/leagueoflegends: General discussion about League of Legends./r/summonerschool: Dedicated to helping players improve their skills.
• /r/leagueoflegends: General discussion about League of Legends.
• /r/summonerschool: Dedicated to helping players improve their skills.
• /r/leagueoflegends: General discussion about League of Legends.
• /r/summonerschool: Dedicated to helping players improve their skills.
• Official Riot Forums:League of Legends Boards: Official platform to discuss the game with fellow players.
• League of Legends Boards: Official platform to discuss the game with fellow players.
• League of Legends Boards: Official platform to discuss the game with fellow players.

Players should utilize these forums to stay updated on the latest patches, meta changes, and to seek advice from more experienced summoners.