LoL Patch 26.13 Champion Buffs and Nerfs for MSI 2026
Riot Games has released Patch 26.13 for League of Legends, marking a significant update as it will serve as the competitive patch for the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) 2026. The patch introduces substantial balance changes with eight champion nerfs and nine champion buffs aimed at shaping the competitive meta for the prestigious international tournament.
The update also brings a new champion to the roster: Locke, positioned as the sole new character addition for the year. This champion will be available on the competitive stage alongside the various balance adjustments.
A notable feature in Patch 26.13 is the implementation of Last Hit Indicators across both Normal Draft and Ranked Summoner’s Rift modes. While Riot indicates this feature has already been available in Swiftplay and Co-op vs AI modes where it has successfully aided new player development in last-hitting mechanics, its introduction to Ranked play has proven controversial. The decision to enable the visual aid in competitive ranked matchmaking has generated debate within the community, with concerns raised about how it might impact the skill-based nature of the game.
Riot’s rationale centers on player improvement and accessibility, suggesting the indicator helps newer players develop fundamental farming skills more effectively. However, the implementation in ranked environments represents a shift in how Riot is approaching competitive fairness and skill differentiation between players.