League of Legends (LoL) is a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game developed and published by Riot Games, first released in 2009. With its engaging gameplay and team-based strategy, League of Legends esports has grown into one of the largest competitive gaming scenes worldwide. The game pits two teams of five players against each other on a map called Summoner’s Rift, where they work to destroy the enemy base.

The LoL esports scene kicked off in 2011, and it has since become a cornerstone of competitive gaming. The 2023 World Championship, for instance, reached an all-time high of over 6.4 million peak viewers! 

This immense popularity is fueled by exciting, high-stakes matches, a devoted player base, and frequent updates that keep the game fresh. For fans who want to dive deeper into the competitive scene, our League of Legends esports guide is a great way to achieve this feat. You learn about teams, tournaments, where to watch, and how you can join the game. League of Legends thrives in esports because it combines strategic depth with thrilling, fast-paced action, making it a fan favorite globally.

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League of Legends Esports Guide: Summary and Overview

League of Legends (LoL) made its official esports debut in 2011 at the Season 1 World Championship, held at DreamHack in Sweden. This event marked the beginning of a competitive journey that would quickly grow into one of the biggest in esports history. With only a $100,000 prize pool and around 1.6 million online viewers, the event was a success that inspired Riot Games to invest even more in LoL esports.

The game’s popularity skyrocketed over the next few years. In Season 2, Riot announced a $5 million prize fund for tournaments, and the game became a worldwide sensation. By Season 3, the finals had moved to major venues like the Staples Center in Los Angeles. 

South Korean teams began dominating the scene, with SK Telecom T1 (T1) securing multiple championships, and iconic players like Faker rose to fame. Today, League of Legends esports is celebrated worldwide, with millions tuning in to watch the best teams compete annually

Major Tournaments	Region	Current Champion	Prize Pool	Tournament Dates or Date Estimates
League of Legends World Championship	Global	T1	$2,225,000	September – November
Esports World Cup	Global	T1	$1,050,000	May
Mid-Season Invitational	Global	Gen.G Esports	$250,000	Seasonal
LoL Champions Korea (LCK)	Korea	Hanwha Life Esports	$500,000+	Seasonal
LoL Championship Series (LCS)	North American	FlyQuest	$500,000+	Seasonal
LoL Pro League (LPL)	China	Bilibili Gaming	$500,000+	Seasonal
League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC)	Europe	G2 Esports	$500,000+	Seasonal

Major League of Legends Esports Tournaments

League of Legends esports has a well-structured regional system that feeds into its global events, primarily the League of Legends World Championship (commonly known as “Worlds”). Each region has its own league that determines which teams qualify for Worlds. Here’s a breakdown of the key regions and their respective leagues:

South Korea

• League: League of Legends Champions Korea (LCK)
• Worlds Slot Allocation: 3 slots in the Swiss stage for the top teams, with an additional slot awarded to the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) champion team if the LCK wins MSI.
• Overview: The LCK is renowned for producing top-tier teams and players, including T1, which boasts multiple Worlds titles. South Korea has been a dominant force in LoL esports.

China

• League: League of Legends Pro League (LPL)
• Worlds Slot Allocation: 3 slots directly in the Swiss stage, with an additional slot if the region places as runner-up in the MSI.
• Overview: The LPL is known for its aggressive playstyle and has consistently performed at Worlds. Chinese teams like FunPlus Phoenix and Invictus Gaming have claimed Worlds titles in recent years, adding to the region’s reputation.

EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa)

• League: League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC)
• Worlds Slot Allocation: 2 slots directly in the Swiss stage, with a third slot through the play-ins.
• Overview: The LEC, formerly the EU LCS, is home to powerhouses like G2 Esports and Fnatic. Known for producing innovative strategies, EMEA teams are competitive on the global stage, often making deep runs in Worlds tournaments.

North America

• League: League Championship Series (LCS)
• Worlds Slot Allocation: 2 slots in the Swiss stage and one slot through the play-ins.
• Overview: The LCS, representing North America, includes well-known teams like Team Liquid and Cloud9. Though they face strong competition from other regions, NA teams regularly attract large fanbases and bring unique strategies to Worlds.

Asia-Pacific

• League: Pacific Championship Series (PCS)
• Worlds Slot Allocation: 2 slots through the play-in stage.
• Overview: The PCS represents teams from regions like Hong Kong, Taiwan, Macau, and Southeast Asia. Top teams from the PCS join the competition through the play-in stage, adding to the global diversity in Worlds.

Vietnam

• League: Vietnam Championship Series (VCS)
• Worlds Slot Allocation: 2 slots through the play-in stage.
• Overview: The VCS represents Vietnam, known for its highly talented teams and enthusiastic fanbase. Teams from the VCS add a fast-paced style to the competition, making them formidable opponents in international events.

Brazil

• League: Campeonato Brasileiro de League of Legends (CBLOL)
• Worlds Slot Allocation: 1 slot through the play-in stage.
• Overview: The CBLOL has gained a strong following in Brazil, where teams like paiN Gaming and Flamengo Esports have built large fanbases. The league’s champions earn a place at Worlds, where they compete in the play-in stage.

Latin America

• League: Liga Latinoamérica (LLA)
• Worlds Slot Allocation: 1 slot through the play-in stage.
• Overview: The LLA represents Latin America, and its top teams bring a unique style to the global stage. Teams from the LLA compete in the play-in stage, vying for a coveted spot in the Swiss stage of Worlds.

Each region’s league is structured to showcase the best of local talent and provide a pathway for teams to compete internationally at events like Worlds. This regional system not only fuels competition but also engages diverse audiences, making League of Legends one of the most dynamic and inclusive esports scenes worldwide.

Third-Party tournaments:

Beyond official tournaments hosted by Riot Games, several third-party organizations hold prominent League of Legends tournaments, offering more opportunities for players and teams to compete:

Tier 1: 

• LoL Pro League organized by Tencent Games: The LoL Pro League (LPL) is China’s top-tier League of Legends competition, organized by Tencent Games. It features China’s best teams battling for a spot in international tournaments like Worlds.
• Esports World Cup: The Esports World Cup is a global competition where top teams from different games, including League of Legends, compete on an international stage. It celebrates the best talent across multiple esports titles.

Tier 2 and 3: 

• Red Bull League of Its Own: Known for its exciting format, this tournament brings together rising talents and seasoned players in a unique environment. Red Bull’s events often have creative twists that keep both players and fans engaged.
• KeSPA Cup: Organized in South Korea, the KeSPA Cup features top Korean teams in a showdown of skill and strategy. This tournament has become a fan favorite, showcasing emerging talent and the depth of Korea’s LoL scene.
• Demacia Cup: Hosted in China, the Demacia Cup is another prestigious tournament that offers a competitive platform for LPL teams and aspiring semi-pro players. It’s highly regarded in the Chinese LoL community. 
• EMEA Masters: For European teams outside the top-tier LEC, EMEA Masters offers regional champions a stage to compete for glory. Many future LEC players have first gained recognition in this tournament.
• Esports Championships East Asia 
• Asia Star Challengers Invitational 
• Americas Challengers 
• Life’s Good, Let’s Play
• Iberian Cup
• NLC Aurora Cup
• Elite Series Benelux Masters 
• Esports Balkan League Pro-Am
• Prime League Pokal 
• Coupe de France
• SoloQ Challenge
• Coupe des Étoiles 
• Vietnam Championship Series
• LoL Development League
• Campeonato Brasileiro de League of Legends
• Ultraliga 
• Liga de Videojuegos Profesional (LVP Superliga) 
• TCL 
• Hitpoint Masters 
• Equal eSports Cup 
• Arabian League 
• Liga Regional Sur 
• LoL Italian Tournament
• North American Challengers League
• Liga Portuguesa de League of Legends 
• Liga Regional Norte
• European Pro League 
• Esports Balkan League 
• Pacific Championship Series
• LoL Japan League
• Arabian League 
• Ignis Cup 
• Campeonato Brasileiro de League of Legends Academy 
• Greek Legends League 
• Collegiate League of Legends 
• Legend Cup

• Liga Latinoamérica 
• Aegis Champions League
• KeG League Championship 
• Saudi eLeague 2024
• Liga Republika 
• Gamers Assembly
• Celerity Budokan

These tournaments, while not as globally renowned as Worlds, are critical in providing additional competitive opportunities and exposure, especially for players on the path to the top.

Amateur and Semi-Pro Scenes

The journey to becoming a professional League of Legends player is challenging but rewarding. Aspiring players typically start in the amateur scene and work their way up by mastering their skills and competing in various leagues and tournaments. Here’s a step-by-step look at the path to pro:

• Master Your Craft in Ranked Games: The foundation for every pro player is the ranked ladder, where players compete to reach Challenger, the highest rank in the game. Climbing to Challenger demonstrates skill and dedication, making it the first step toward catching the attention of team scouts.

• Join Amateur Teams: Once players reach a high rank, they can join amateur or community teams. Many online platforms, like FaceIt and Battlefy, allow players to compete in organized tournaments. These experiences are valuable for learning teamwork and communication.

• Compete in Local and Online Tournaments: Competing in smaller tournaments, including local LAN events and online leagues, provides players with exposure to competitive environments. Events like the North American Challengers League and the Greek Legends League are good starting points for players in various regions.

• Gain Recognition in Semi-Pro Leagues: For players who show promise in the amateur scene, semi-pro leagues, such as NA Academy and EU Masters, are the next step. These leagues are often feeders into major leagues like the LCS and LEC, where scouts from professional teams frequently look for talent.

• Develop Team Skills: Solo queue (ranked ladder) success is essential, but playing on a team is different. Semi-pro and amateur leagues teach critical skills like team communication, objective control, and coordination with other players. Developing synergy with a team becomes vital as players move toward pro play.

Best League of Legends Esports Teams

League of Legends has many iconic teams known for their competitive achievements and dedicated fan bases. Here’s a look at some of the best lol esports teams that have made a mark in its competitive gaming scene. 

T1

Hailing from South Korea, T1 is one of the most successful esports teams in LoL history, winning four World Championships (2013, 2015, 2016, and 2023). Led by Faker, one of the most legendary players, T1 is admired for its strategic excellence and consistent performance.

EDward Gaming (EDG) 

Representing China, EDG claimed the Worlds title in 2021, defeating DWG KIA in a thrilling five-game series. EDG’s victory symbolized China’s rise in esports and inspired the region’s players and fans.

G2 Esports 

Based in Europe, G2 Esports is a fan favorite known for its creative strategies and bold playstyle. The team has dominated the European scene and made impressive international runs, often challenging the world’s best.

Cloud9 

As one of North America’s leading teams, Cloud9 has a reputation for taking risks and making bold plays. They consistently represent NA at Worlds, where they often push deep into the tournament.

Gen.G 

Formerly Samsung Galaxy, Gen.G has maintained a strong presence in South Korean and international competitions. Known for consistent gameplay, Gen.G regularly fields top-tier talent and competes at the highest levels. They won the World Championship in 2014 and 2017, handing Faker his first world finals loss. 

Bilibili Gaming 

A strong competitor in the Chinese LPL, Bilibili Gaming has recently emerged as a top team with exceptional players, establishing itself as a force in major tournaments.

Dplus KIA (DWG) 

This South Korean team made waves by winning Worlds in 2020. Known for aggressive tactics and an adaptive playstyle, DWG quickly became one of the world’s top teams.

JD Gaming 

Another top team from China, JD Gaming combines high-level mechanics with strategic flexibility, often pushing deep into major tournaments.

Top Esports 

Known for mechanical skill and flashy gameplay, Top Esports has been a prominent team in the LPL, consistently competing with the best in the region and at Worlds.

Team Liquid 

One of North America’s most successful teams, Team Liquid has built a strong reputation for top-tier talent and steady performance, often representing NA in international competitions.

Best League of Legends Esports Players

League of Legends has produced some of the most remarkable players in esports history. Here’s a look at the best players who have left a significant impact on the game:

Faker

Often called “The Unkillable Demon King,” Faker is a legendary player from South Korea who plays for T1. Known for his incredible mechanics and in-depth game knowledge, Faker has led T1 to multiple World Championships and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time. His consistency and skill have earned him an iconic status in LoL esports.

Uzi

Uzi, one of China’s most beloved players, is celebrated for his exceptional skills as a bot laner. Known for his aggressive playstyle and precision, Uzi was a dominant force on Royal Never Give Up (RNG) and consistently ranked among the world’s top ADCs. His impressive career, which includes multiple international championships, has inspired countless players in China and beyond.

Ambition

Ambition, originally a mid-laner turned jungler from South Korea, is known for his strategic gameplay and versatility. As a key player for Samsung Galaxy, Ambition led his team to win the 2017 World Championship, marking a significant victory over SK Telecom T1. His journey from mid-lane to jungle was transformative and inspired many players.

Perkz

A standout player from Europe, Perkz is known for his versatility and leadership. He has played both mid-lane and ADC at a world-class level, leading G2 Esports to numerous championships and international success. His innovative strategies and adaptability have made him a top European player and a fan favorite.

Caps

Caps, also from Europe, is known for his dynamic playstyle and ability to create game-changing moments. A key player for G2 Esports, Caps has consistently led his team to victories in the LEC and has been a formidable competitor in international tournaments. His high-energy gameplay and dedication to improvement make him one of the best players in the scene.

Mata

Mata, one of the greatest support players from South Korea, is known for his incredible map awareness and shot-calling. He played a pivotal role in Samsung White’s victory at Worlds in 2014. Mata’s vision control and playmaking abilities revolutionized the support role, setting a new standard for aspiring supports worldwide.

Showmaker

As a rising star in the mid-lane, Showmaker from South Korea’s DWG KIA is known for his impressive mechanical skills and champion versatility. He was instrumental in DWG KIA’s 2020 Worlds victory, showcasing an aggressive yet controlled playstyle that quickly made him one of the top mid-laners in the world.

Bengi

Bengi, also known as “The Right Hand of the King,” was Faker’s longtime teammate on T1 and played a crucial role as their jungler. Known for his smart decision-making and supportive playstyle, Bengi helped T1 secure three World Championship titles. His synergy with Faker and reliable performance in high-pressure situations made him a key figure in LoL’s early competitive history.

League of Legends Esports Guide: Meta and Strategy 

The competitive meta in League of Legends constantly shifts with new patches and strategies. Here’s a look at the current meta, popular tactics, and how recent changes impact gameplay.

Current Meta

In the current competitive meta, champions with strong crowd control, mobility, and utility are highly favored across all roles. Top laners often choose tanky or bruiser champions like Camille and Aatrox, who can withstand pressure and engage in team fights. Mid-lane is dominated by burst mages and assassins like Syndra and LeBlanc, allowing players to create impactful plays and roam to assist other lanes. 

In the jungle, champions like Lee Sin and Zac are valued for their ability to initiate fights and provide crowd control. Bot lane picks, especially ADCs like Kai’Sa and Jinx, focus on dealing high damage from a distance, while supports like Leona and Lulu offer protection and setup opportunities.

Popular Strategies

Top teams frequently use these strategies to gain a competitive edge:

• Early Game Control: Dominating the early game with aggressive jungle invades and securing objectives like Dragon and Rift Herald sets teams up for success.
• Split-Pushing: This strategy uses a strong solo champion to push one lane, forcing the enemy to respond and opening up opportunities elsewhere on the map.
• Vision Control: Maintaining vision with wards allows teams to predict enemy movements, make safer plays, and contest objectives effectively.
• Objective Priority: Teams coordinate to secure major objectives like Baron Nashor and Elder Dragon, giving them powerful buffs that often swing the game in their favor.

Patch Impact

Recent patches have brought balance adjustments that affect champion viability and gameplay strategies. For example, changes to Swain’s abilities have made him a stronger pick in early skirmishes, shifting his role in the meta. Buffs to tank items and adjustments to mages like Azir have also influenced the picks seen in competitive play. 

Each patch forces teams to adapt their strategies, pick different champions, and discover new ways to gain advantages, making the game dynamic and exciting for players and viewers alike.

League of Legends Esports Viewership and Fan Engagement 

League of Legends esports has built a massive fanbase worldwide, with millions tuning in to watch thrilling matches each year. From viewership stats and streaming platforms to active fan communities and merchandise, there are countless ways for fans to connect with and support the scene. Here’s how to stay engaged and make the most of the LoL esports experience.

Viewership Stats

League of Legends is one of the most-watched esports globally. In 2023, the World Championship reached a record-breaking 6.4 million peak viewers. Major tournaments consistently attract millions, with the fan base growing every year. 

2024 — 4 977 721

2023 — 6 402 760

2022 —  5 147 701

2021 — 4 018 728

2020 — 3 884 667

2019 — 3 981 706

2018 — 2 040 118

2017 — 2 101 737

Streaming Platforms

Fans can watch LoL esports on multiple platforms:

Youtube: LoL Esports and LoL Esports VODs and Highlights 

Twitch: LoLWorldChampionship and Riot Games 

Official Website: LoL Esports

These channels broadcast live games, highlights, and post-match analysis.

Fan Communities

League of Legends has a large online community:

• X (formerly Twitter): LoL Esports 
• Instagram: LoL Esports, lcsofficial, lolesportsla, lecofficial, leagueoflegends, lpl.official, lolesports_arabia, and lolesportsru. 
• Facebook: LoL Esports
• Reddit: r/lolesports and r/leagueoflegends
• Discord: League of Legends  The League of Legends Official Discord allows fans to chat, discuss matches, and join events.

Merchandise and Sponsorships

Fans can buy official merchandise on the Riot Games store, including team jerseys, champion figurines, and accessories. Sponsorships from brands like Red Bull, Alienware, and Nike have boosted fan engagement, as these brands offer themed gear and in-game collaborations, enhancing the viewing experience. 

Here’s a list of top sponsors across LoL esports tournaments: 

• State Farm
• Alienware
• Secretlab
• Woori Bank
• Red Bull
• Cass
• LG UltraGear
• OP.GG
• JW Pharmaceutical
• Golden Dew
• Logitech
• Hanwha Life
• CGV
• Pulmuone
• Secretlab
• Musinsa 
• Mercedes-Benz
• Nike
• Momchilovtsi
• Harbin Beer
• Lenovo
• Wahaha
• KFC
• War Horse
• OPPO
• Suning.com
• ThunderTalk
• Liepin
• Razer
• AutoFull
• Intel-Gaming

Latest Big News about League of Legends Esports

League of Legends esports is buzzing with new developments, from tournament announcements to exciting changes in the competitive scene. Here’s a look at the latest updates making headlines.

LoL Worlds Returns to China in 2025

In a major announcement, Riot Games confirmed that the 2025 League of Legends World Championship (Worlds) will return to China, marking the third time the country will host this iconic event. China is home to some of the most dedicated LoL fans and top-tier teams, making it a fitting location for such a prestigious tournament. 

The 2025 Worlds promises to be a spectacular showcase, with fans eagerly awaiting the intense matches, impressive production, and potentially record-breaking viewership numbers. This return underscores China’s importance in the global LoL esports ecosystem and promises an unforgettable experience for fans worldwide.

LoL Players Burnout

League of Legends esports continues to evolve, and recent news highlights both exciting developments and ongoing challenges. One recurring issue in LoL esports is player burnout. With intense schedules and frequent international tournaments, top players face physical and mental stress, prompting discussions about balancing competition with player well-being. 

Asia Dominates LoL Esports as Others Play Catch Up 

Competitive balance is another topic of focus, as regions like South Korea and China often dominate the scene. Efforts are underway to close this gap by improving resources for teams in other regions, making global competition even more thrilling.

League of Legends Esports Guide: How to Get Involved 

Whether you’re aiming to go pro or simply want to be a part of the community, there are plenty of ways to get involved in League of Legends esports. Here’s how players and fans alike can dive into the action.

For New Players and Aspiring Pros

Gamers looking to break into esports League of Legends, here are some tips to get started:

• Master the Basics: Begin by picking a primary role (Top, Jungle, Mid, ADC, or Support) and mastering a few champions in that role. Understanding your strengths will help you excel.
• Climb the Ranked Ladder: Solo queue is the main path to pro. Aim to reach the highest ranks, ideally Challenger, which puts you on the radar for amateur teams and scouts.
• Set Clear Goals: Each game is a learning opportunity. Review your replays, track your progress, and focus on improving specific skills, such as map awareness, positioning, and teamfighting.
• Build Your Network: Consider streaming your gameplay and joining online communities where other high-ranking players gather. Many pros start by creating a following on platforms like Twitch, which can attract teams or organizations interested in your skills.

For Fans

If you’re a fan and want to stay involved, here are some ways to keep up with the latest news and join the community:

• Follow Official Channels: Riot Games frequently updates fans via X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube, where they share match schedules, highlights, and announcements.
• Join Online Communities: Reddit’s r/LoLesports and the League of Legends Official Discord offer spaces to discuss matches, team news, and strategies with other fans.

Final Thoughts

League of Legends has become a global esports powerhouse, attracting millions of fans and offering thrilling, strategic gameplay. With its rich history, iconic players, and constantly evolving meta, LoL esports delivers unmatched excitement.

Following this scene means witnessing high-level competition, unforgettable moments, and a passionate community that continues to grow. For any esports fan, League of Legends is an experience well worth exploring.