LoL Gameplay 2019: A Deep Dive

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the League of Legends gameplay from 2019. It was a year of significant changes, meta shifts, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a curious newbie, understanding the nuances of the 2019 season can provide valuable insights into the game's evolution. We'll break down everything from champion balance to itemization trends, and even touch on the major esports highlights. Buckle up, because we're about to embark on a nostalgic journey through the Rift!

Key Changes and Meta Shifts

In 2019, Riot Games implemented a series of changes that dramatically reshaped the League of Legends landscape. One of the most notable adjustments was the introduction of the elemental dragons. These dragons, replacing the standard dragon buff, provided unique and powerful bonuses based on the element they represented. For example, the Infernal Dragon increased attack damage and ability power, while the Ocean Dragon granted health and mana regeneration. This change forced teams to prioritize dragon control, leading to more dynamic and strategic gameplay around the dragon pit. Securing these dragons became crucial for gaining an edge, influencing team compositions and early-game rotations. The strategic depth added by the elemental dragons encouraged players to adapt their playstyles and develop innovative strategies.

Furthermore, champion balance adjustments played a crucial role in defining the meta. Some champions who were previously underperforming received buffs, making them viable picks in competitive and solo queue environments. Conversely, overpowered champions were nerfed to prevent them from dominating every game. These changes ensured a more diverse champion pool, encouraging players to explore different roles and playstyles. The rise and fall of certain champions also impacted itemization trends, as players sought to optimize their builds for specific matchups and team compositions. The community actively theory-crafted and experimented with different builds, leading to the discovery of hidden power spikes and counter strategies.

The itemization landscape also underwent significant transformations. New items were introduced, and existing items were reworked to better suit the evolving needs of the game. These changes affected the power curves of various champions, influencing their effectiveness at different stages of the game. Players had to stay informed about the latest item changes to make informed decisions during the draft and in-game. Understanding which items synergized well with specific champions became essential for maximizing their potential. The constant flux in itemization kept the gameplay fresh and exciting, requiring players to continuously adapt and refine their builds.

Champion Spotlights: The Stars of 2019

Several champions stood out as particularly impactful during the 2019 season. Akali, the Rogue Assassin, received a significant rework that transformed her into a highly mobile and burst-damage mage. Her ability to weave in and out of fights made her a formidable opponent in both solo queue and professional play. Akali's skill-intensive kit required players to master her combos and positioning, but those who did were rewarded with devastating damage output. Her popularity soared, and she became a staple pick in many games.

Sylas, the Unshackled, was another champion who made a splash in 2019. His unique ultimate ability allowed him to steal enemy ultimates, providing incredible versatility and adaptability. Sylas could adapt to any team composition and turn the enemy's strengths against them. His playmaking potential and ability to disrupt team fights made him a highly contested pick in drafts. Mastering Sylas required a deep understanding of enemy champions and their ultimate abilities, adding a layer of strategic complexity to his gameplay.

Kayle, the Judicator, underwent a rework that significantly altered her playstyle. She transformed from a weak early-game champion into a late-game powerhouse capable of dealing immense damage. Kayle's scaling power made her a popular choice for players who preferred a more passive early game, focusing on farming and scaling up for the late game. Her ability to provide invulnerability to her teammates made her an invaluable asset in team fights. However, her early-game vulnerability made her susceptible to early aggression, requiring careful positioning and strategic play.

Itemization Trends and Optimal Builds

Itemization in 2019 was heavily influenced by the champion meta and the evolving game dynamics. For AD carry champions, items like Infinity Edge and Stormrazor remained core choices for maximizing damage output. However, the introduction of new items like Essence Reaver provided alternative build paths for champions who relied on ability usage and mana regeneration. Marksmen needed to carefully assess the enemy team composition and their own champion's strengths to determine the optimal build path.

For mages, items like Morellonomicon and Luden's Echo continued to be popular choices for providing burst damage and magic penetration. However, the rise of tanky compositions led to an increased demand for items like Liandry's Torment and Void Staff, which provided sustained damage and countered enemy resistances. Mages had to adapt their item choices to deal with the specific threats they faced in each game.

Tanks and supports also had access to a variety of powerful items that enhanced their utility and survivability. Items like Knight's Vow and Redemption provided valuable protective capabilities, allowing them to shield their teammates from damage and sustain them in fights. Meanwhile, items like Locket of the Iron Solari and Zeke's Convergence provided aura-based buffs that enhanced the entire team's effectiveness. Supports needed to prioritize items that synergized well with their team composition and provided the necessary tools to protect their carries.

Esports Highlights: Memorable Moments

The 2019 esports season was filled with unforgettable moments and intense rivalries. The League of Legends World Championship, held in Europe, was a spectacle that captivated millions of viewers worldwide. Teams from all regions battled for supremacy, showcasing incredible skill and strategic innovation.

FunPlus Phoenix (FPX) emerged as the champions, defeating G2 Esports in the finals. FPX's victory was a testament to their teamwork, strategic vision, and individual talent. Their innovative playstyle and willingness to experiment with unconventional strategies set them apart from their competitors. They demonstrated the importance of adaptability and creative thinking in the ever-evolving world of competitive League of Legends. The grand final match was a thrilling contest, showcasing the highest level of gameplay and strategic depth.

Other notable events from the 2019 season included the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI), where G2 Esports emerged victorious, and the various regional leagues around the world. These tournaments provided a platform for emerging talent to showcase their skills and compete against the best teams in the world. The competitive scene continued to evolve, with new strategies and playstyles constantly emerging.

Conclusion: Reflecting on LoL Gameplay in 2019

Looking back at League of Legends gameplay in 2019, it's clear that it was a year of significant evolution and innovation. The changes to the dragon system, champion balance adjustments, and itemization trends all contributed to a dynamic and engaging gameplay experience. The rise of new champions and the resurgence of old favorites kept the meta fresh and exciting. The esports scene continued to grow, with memorable moments and intense rivalries captivating audiences worldwide. 2019 was truly a remarkable year for League of Legends, shaping the game into what it is today. So, next time you're queuing up for a game, remember the lessons learned from 2019 and apply them to your gameplay. Who knows, you might just discover the next big thing!