Riot Games has released a first look at the upcoming League of Legends (LoL) Patch 26.18.
Lead gameplay designer Matt ‘Phroxzon’ Leung-Harrison says that LoL Worlds 2026 is in the publisher’s mind, with the tournament to be played on Patch 26.20.
A total of 13 champions have been earmarked for changes so far, including big adjustments to Cassiopeia.
Meanwhile, there are also buffs for Aurelion Sol and Viego as well as nerfs for Seraphine and Syndra.
Phroxzon Explains Upcoming Updates
As always, Phroxzon has offered a deeper dive into the developers’ thoughts behind the planned changes.
Cassiopeia is the one champion listed under adjustments as the midlaner has been overperforming at higher levels of play.
Phroxzon says Riot wants to keep Cassio strong in lane and help her in lower elo while making her less prevalent in pro play.
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“We’re looking at some power-neutral adjustments to Cassio, because her regular play power level is a little on the weaker side for average players.
“We’re taking some power out of her early game power and moving it into more scaling power, so that she doesn’t win lanes so reliably, even if she’s missing Q’s.”
Meanwhile, Seraphine is about to be hit with substantial nerfs.
Phroxzon acknowledged that Seraphine mains won’t be happy but says they can’t serve everyone, as the mage support has been in the top three on patch frustration surveys for several patches now.
Every Buff and Nerf Expected in LoL Patch 26.18
- CHAMPION BUFFS
- Aurelion Sol
- Ekko
- Kassadin
- Master Yi
- Renekton
- Viego
- Zaahen
- CHAMPION NERFS
- Bard
- Nautilus
- Seraphine
- Syndra
- Zeri
- CHAMPION ADJUSTMENTS
- Cassiopeia
- SYSTEM BUFFS
- Guinsoo’s Rageblade
What other champions would you like to see buffed or nerfed? Insider Gaming Discord.
Meanwhile, a job listing has suggested Riot might be making a digital version of LoL TCG Riftbound. And for even more Insider Gaming delivered directly to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter.
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