League of Legends (LoL), developed by Riot Games, has evolved from a popular online game into a global esports phenomenon. Since its release in 2009, LoL has captivated millions of players around the world with its unique gameplay, thrilling battles and amazing characters. Every esports fan should familiarize themselves with this game and its unique history, from a simple computer game to the level of international, high-paying championships.
History of LoL
League of Legends was released on October 27, 2009, by Riot Games, a Los Angeles-based game developer. Inspired by a mod for Warcraft III, Defense of the Ancients (DotA), LoL aimed to create a new genre of multiplayer online games (MOBAs). The founders of Riot Games, Brandon Beck and Mark Merrill, sought to create a game that would not only interest avid gamers, but also attract new users.
Game Info:
- Year of Origin: 2009
- Developer Company: Riot Games
- Genre: Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
- Platforms: Microsoft Windows, macOS
- Players Worldwide: Over 100 million active players monthly
Upon release, League of Legends quickly gained popularity thanks to its free-to-play model and frequent updates. Riot Games’ commitment to improving the game based on player feedback helped build a loyal community. The exciting mix of strategy, teamwork and fast-paced action was the key to success.
Evolution into Esports
As the player base grew, so did the need for competitive play. In response, Riot Games organized the first official League of Legends tournament, the Season One World Championship, in 2011. The tournament was held at the DreamHack Summer festival in Sweden, with a prize pool of $100,000, and featured the best teams from North America and Europe. The success of this event marked the beginning of League of Legends’ emergence as a serious esports discipline.
Over time, League of Legends has expanded its competitive scene with regional leagues and international tournaments. The annual World Championship, also known as Worlds, has become the pinnacle of competitive play, attracting millions of viewers online and amassing impressive prize pools in the millions of dollars.
League of Legends’ success as an esport has had a profound impact on the gaming industry. It helped legitimize esports as a professional career, with players receiving salaries, sponsorships, and advertising. Riot Games has invested heavily in infrastructure, including state-of-the-art studios and dedicated esports arenas, further cementing League of Legends’ status on the world stage.
Join the Legends!
Riot Games continues to innovate and expand the League of Legends universe. The introduction of new game modes, champions and legends keeps the game fresh and exciting for players. In addition, the success of the “Arcane” animated series based on the League of Legends universe has broadened the game’s appeal beyond the traditional gaming audience.
To join the community of LoL fans you just need to download it and start playing, it’s absolutely free! Who knows, maybe your online gaming talents will help you become the new champion of the prestigious Worlds tournament!