League of Legends Patch 26.15 Preview: More Locke Nerfs
Riot Games has announced League of Legends Patch 26.15, marking one of the game’s most significant updates. The patch introduces League of Legends Classic, a nostalgic throwback experience that returns players to the 2009-2013 era of the game, appealing to long-time players seeking to relive the game’s early years.
Beyond the classic version, the patch delivers substantial balance changes to modern League. Most notably, Locke—the newest champion release—is receiving further nerfs despite Riot’s assertion that the champion has “landed well.” This contradicts competitive data, as Locke maintains a ban rate exceeding 70% in Emerald rank and higher, indicating the community views the champion as overpowered.
The balance adjustments include buffs to Alistar, Kai’Sa, Maokai, Volibear, and Zac, while Locke, Mordekaiser, Naafiri, Riven, and Sylas all receive nerfs. Additionally, Riot is adjusting item systems, buffing Bastionbreaker while nerfing Jack of All Trades, further reshaping the metagame.
Lead gameplay designer Phroxzon is expected to provide detailed explanations of the upcoming changes, offering insight into Riot’s balance philosophy and reasoning behind these adjustments.