How many LoL champions are there, and which ones are the best? Check out our guide on all the champions of the popular game.
League of Legends (LoL) is a powerhouse in the world of esports and online gaming, boasting a roster of champions as diverse and dynamic as its fan base. As of January 31, 2024, there are currently 167 released champions, with the latest being Smolder, the Fiery Fledgling. In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about LoL champions, including their unique abilities, kits, and release dates. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, this guide will help you navigate the expansive world of LoL champions.
How many LoL champions?
One of the most common questions among both new and veteran players is, “How many champions in LoL?” As of the latest update, there are 167 champions in the game. This ever-growing roster ensures the game remains fresh and exciting, offering a champion for every playstyle and preference.
What makes a lol Champions?
In League of Legends, each champion is designed with unique abilities that set them apart from one another. These abilities form a champion’s “kit” and are crucial to their role in the game. Let’s break down the components of a typical champion’s kit:
Innate ability
Also known as a passive ability, this is a unique feature that is always active or triggers automatically under certain conditions. For example, Garen’s “Perseverance” allows him to regenerate health rapidly if he hasn’t taken damage for a short period.
Basic abilities
Most lol Champions have three basic abilities that can be activated using the Q, W, and E keys. These abilities often include a mix of offensive, defensive, and utility skills. For instance, Ahri’s “Orb of Deception” (Q) deals damage while also providing a heal if it hits an enemy twice.
Ultimate ability
The ultimate ability, activated using the R key, is typically a champion’s most powerful move and often has a longer cooldown than basic abilities. For example, Miss Fortune’s “Bullet Time” unleashes a barrage of bullets, dealing massive damage to all enemies in the area.
LoL champions by release date
Understanding the release timeline of champions can provide insights into the evolution of the game. Here’s a brief look at some notable releases:
- Smolder, the Fiery Fledgling (January 31, 2024): The latest addition to the roster, Smolder brings fire-based abilities and a unique playstyle.
- Seraphine, the Starry-Eyed Songstress (October 29, 2020): Known for her musical abilities and crowd control, Seraphine quickly became a favorite among players.
- Aphelios, the Weapon of the Faithful (December 11, 2019): With his complex weapon system, Aphelios offers a high skill ceiling and versatility in gameplay.
- Yasuo, the Unforgiven (December 13, 2013): Yasuo’s high mobility and critical damage potential have made him a staple in both casual and competitive play.
Best LoL champions
While every champion has its strengths and weaknesses, some stand out due to their impact in various roles and game modes. Here are a few of the best LoL champions in different categories:
Best top lane LoL Champions
- Darius: Known for his high damage output and sustainability in lane, Darius is a formidable top laner.
- Fiora: With her dueling capabilities and true damage, Fiora excels in one-on-one combat.
- Camille: Offering mobility and versatile engagement options, Camille is a top choice for many players.
Best mid-lane Champions
- Zed: A master of shadows, Zed’s burst damage and outplay potential make him a favorite in the mid lane.
- LeBlanc: Known for her deception and mobility, LeBlanc can quickly eliminate key targets.
- Syndra: With strong wave clear and crowd control, Syndra dominates the mid lane.
Best bot lane (ADC) Champions
- Kai’Sa: Versatile and scaling well into the late game, Kai’Sa is effective in various team comps.
- Jhin: Offering high burst damage and crowd control, Jhin is a strategic pick for many ADC players.
- Ezreal: With his long-range poke and mobility, Ezreal is both safe and effective.
Best support Champions
- Thresh: Known for his game-changing hooks and lantern saves, Thresh is a highly impactful support.
- Lulu: With her versatility and ability to protect carries, Lulu is a strong pick in many matchups.
- Leona: Offering reliable crowd control and tankiness, Leona is excellent for engaging fights.
Tips for Choosing Your Champion
Selecting the right champion can significantly influence your performance and enjoyment of the game. Here are some tips to help you choose the best champion for your playstyle:
- Understand Your Role: Each role (top, jungle, mid, bot, support) has specific responsibilities. Choose a champion that fits well within your preferred role.
- Consider Team Composition: Think about how your champion complements your team’s overall strategy and comp.
- Play to Your Strengths: If you excel at high-damage, squishy champions, consider playing assassins or mages. If you prefer durability and crowd control, tanks and supports might be more your speed.
- Stay Updated: The meta in League of Legends is constantly evolving. Keep an eye on patch notes and professional play to stay informed about strong champions.
The world of League of Legends champions is vast and ever-expanding. With 167 champions as of January 31, 2024, there’s a champion for every type of player. Understanding each champion’s unique abilities and how they fit into the game’s dynamic ecosystem is crucial for success. Whether you’re aiming to climb the ranks or simply enjoy the game with friends, mastering a variety of champions can enhance your League of Legends experience.
Dive into the Rift and explore the limitless possibilities that each champion brings. And if you’re new to the game, don’t be overwhelmed—start with a few champions that suit your style and gradually expand your expertise.
