At least 10 Champions Are Getting Buffed in LoL Patch 26.13 Before MSI
Riot Games has announced the champion buffs and changes coming to League of Legends in Patch 26.13, a critical update that will serve as the competitive patch for MSI 2026, one of the year’s most prestigious esports tournaments.
At least 10 champions are receiving buffs in the patch, with underplayed champions like Kindred and Vex targeted for improvements. The buffs aim to diversify the competitive meta and encourage different champion picks at the international tournament.
The patch will also mark the release of Locke, an AP assassin that represents the only new champion coming to League of Legends in 2026. Despite launching in Patch 26.13, Locke will not be available for competition at MSI 2026, preventing the new champion from disrupting the esports event. This decision ensures that professional teams have a stable champion pool to prepare strategies around for the tournament.
The combination of champion buffs and the new champion release highlights Riot’s ongoing efforts to maintain a balanced and engaging meta for both solo queue players and competitive play. By disabling Locke for esports while allowing it in normal play, Riot balances the excitement of new content with the integrity of competitive competition.