League of Legends Patch 26.14: Locke Nerfs and More
Riot Games has released League of Legends Patch 26.14, marking the final update before the highly anticipated launch of LoL Classic in two weeks. The upcoming classic version will feature gameplay based on the game’s 2009-2013 era, offering players a nostalgia-driven experience.
Patch 26.14 brings a measured selection of champion adjustments following MSI 2026. The update marks the first instance of nerfs being applied to Locke, signaling balance concerns around the champion’s current strength in the competitive meta. In addition to these nerfs, the patch includes various champion buffs designed to improve underperforming characters.
Among the notable changes is Azir, who receives not direct stat buffs but rather impactful bug fixes that are expected to meaningfully improve his effectiveness. These fixes affect how Scorch, Liandry’s Torment, Blackfire Torch, and Hextech Alternator interact with his abilities, with several now dealing 100% of their damage on-hit instead of the previous 50%. Additionally, Conqueror now applies 2 stacks on-hit instead of 1 when used by Azir, further boosting his potential.
However, the patch notably does not address the ongoing issue of mages dominating the bot lane meta. This absence suggests Riot Games may be taking a wait-and-see approach to the mage incursion or planning larger systemic changes for future patches.