Patch 26.01, released on January 8, 2026, marks the beginning of the new League of Legends season with a focus on crit damage users and role quests. Here are the major updates:
- Role Quests: New quests tailored for each role, offering rewards to balance role agency, though these are not available in Swiftplay and rotating game modes.
- Crit Damage Adjustments: Crit damage returns to 200% from 175%, affecting ADCs and crit champions such as Yasuo, Yone, and Tryndamere.
- ADCs: Gain a seventh item slot with corresponding nerfs to balance their power.
- Turret and Minion Adjustments: Changes to turret mechanics emphasize wave pushing, and minion waves are adjusted to enhance the farming experience.
- Epic Monsters: Removal of Atakhan, with remaining epic monsters becoming more damage-resistant.
- Vision System: Introduction of ‘Faelights’ to improve vision dynamics in the game.
- Champion-Specific Changes: Jinx and Jhin receive nerfs, while community discussions highlight concerns over Aphelios nerfs.
- System and Gameplay Updates: Ranked system sees improvements to auto-filling and game pacing, alongside jungle updates and objective strategy adjustments.
- Map and Skins: A Demacia-themed Summoner’s Rift map is introduced, along with new skins for Morgana, Taliyah, Cho’Gath, and Nautilus.
These changes aim to enhance gameplay mechanics, champion balance, and the overall player experience for the new season.
