League Of Legends Worlds: The Ultimate Guide
The League of Legends World Championship, commonly known as Worlds, is the pinnacle of competitive League of Legends. Each year, the best teams from around the globe converge to battle for the coveted Summoner's Cup and the title of World Champion. Here's everything you need to know about this prestigious tournament.
What is League of Legends Worlds?
Worlds is the annual, international tournament that showcases the highest level of League of Legends gameplay. Teams qualify through their regional leagues, such as the LCS (North America), LEC (Europe), LCK (Korea), and LPL (China), among others. The tournament features a multi-stage format, including play-ins, group stages, and a knockout stage, all culminating in a final showdown.
How to Qualify for Worlds
Qualification for Worlds varies by region but generally involves performing well in the regional league's seasonal splits and playoffs. Teams earn championship points based on their performance, and those with the most points, along with the winners of the final playoff bracket, secure their spots at Worlds. Some regions may also have a regional qualifier to determine their final representative.
Format and Schedule
Worlds typically begins with the Play-In Stage, where teams from minor regions and lower-seeded teams from major regions compete for a chance to advance to the Group Stage. In the Group Stage, teams are divided into groups and play a double round-robin format. The top teams from each group then move on to the Knockout Stage, which consists of best-of-five matches in a single-elimination bracket. The schedule is usually announced months in advance and broadcasted globally.
Key Teams and Players to Watch
Each year, several teams and players are considered favorites to win Worlds. Teams like T1, Gen.G, JD Gaming, and G2 Esports often dominate the conversation due to their consistent performance in their respective leagues. Key players to watch include Faker, Chovy, Ruler, and Caps, who consistently demonstrate exceptional skill and leadership.
How to Watch Worlds
You can watch Worlds live on various platforms, including:
- Twitch: Riot Games' official Twitch channel.
- YouTube: The official League of Legends Esports YouTube channel.
- LoLEsports Website: The official website provides streams, schedules, and VODs.
Many co-streams and watch parties are also hosted by popular streamers and community figures.
The Significance of Winning Worlds
Winning Worlds is the ultimate achievement in professional League of Legends. It brings prestige, recognition, and a substantial prize pool. The winning team etches their names in esports history and inspires countless players worldwide. Furthermore, victory at Worlds significantly boosts the team's and their region's reputation, attracting sponsorships and investment.
Past Champions and Memorable Moments
Throughout the years, Worlds has delivered countless memorable moments and produced legendary champions. Teams like SKT T1 (now T1), Samsung Galaxy, and Invictus Gaming have all left their mark on the tournament with dominant performances and iconic plays. These moments contribute to the rich history and enduring appeal of League of Legends esports.
Conclusion
The League of Legends World Championship is more than just a tournament; it's a celebration of skill, strategy, and teamwork. Whether you're a seasoned esports fan or new to the scene, Worlds offers thrilling competition and unforgettable moments. Tune in to witness the best League of Legends action and see who will lift the Summoner's Cup this year.