Riot Games has announced the gradual introduction of a WASD control scheme for its popular game, League of Legends. This shift comes nearly 16 years after the game’s initial launch, which has historically utilized point-and-click controls. The company aims to provide both new and veteran players with a more intuitive way to engage with the game, while preserving the core aspects that define League.
According to Riot, the WASD controls represent “the most familiar control scheme for PC games today.” By offering this new option, the developers believe the game will feel more accessible to players who may have experience with other PC titles. The goal is to lower the barrier to entry, making it easier for newcomers to join the competitive landscape of League of Legends.
Riot Games is aware of the need to maintain competitive balance between the traditional point-and-click controls and the new WASD scheme. To address this, the company will initially test the control scheme in the game’s public beta environment. Following this phase, the WASD controls will be gradually rolled out to non-ranked games, before eventually being integrated into ranked and professional play.
This development is part of a broader strategy by Riot to evolve League of Legends. The company has indicated that the introduction of WASD controls is just the first step in a series of long-term projects aimed at shaping the future of the game. Many players have found League to be complex and intimidating, which has hindered their willingness to engage with it fully.
By implementing WASD controls, Riot hopes to create a more welcoming environment for new players. This change could potentially enhance the overall gaming experience, allowing individuals to immerse themselves in the competitive world of League of Legends without feeling overwhelmed by its intricacies.
While the community eagerly anticipates the rollout of this new control scheme, players will be closely watching how Riot ensures that both control styles can coexist effectively in competitive settings. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, Riot’s innovations may play a pivotal role in attracting a diverse player base to League of Legends.
