League of Legends Patch 26.9 Full Preview: Ambessa Nerfs and Shyvana Buffs
Riot Games has revealed the full plans for League of Legends Patch 26.9, which brings significant balance changes to Season 2. The patch will include a reworked Static Shivv item confirmed for live servers.
According to Phroxzon (Matt Leung-Harrison), the patch features champion buffs for Gragas, Tahm Kench, Taliyah, and Warwick. The title indicates Ambessa will receive nerfs and Shyvana will get buffs, though specific details on these changes were not included in the preview excerpt.
Phroxzon explained that Tahm Kench’s last patch adjustments were overtuned, hitting the champion too hard. The development team intended to buff Tahm Kench’s support role overall, with the upcoming buffs concentrated there while still benefiting both support and other roles.
Warwick is also receiving buffs, as Phroxzon noted the champion has been “languishing” even at average play levels, suggesting it requires attention to remain viable in the current meta. These changes reflect Riot’s ongoing commitment to maintaining balance across League of Legends’ extensive champion roster and ensuring diverse playstyles remain competitive.