League of Legends is kicking off 2026 with a new themed release, as developer Riot Games rolls out Season 1: For Demacia. The season launches today alongside Patch 26.01 and introduces a mix of gameplay changes, cosmetic updates, narrative content, and structural adjustments to LoL Esports.

The season is anchored by a newly released cinematic featuring an original song titled “Salvation,” setting the tone for a year-opening focus on Demacia, one of Runeterra’s most established regions. In-game, the theme extends to Summoner’s Rift through visual updates such as petricite-inspired structures and gold-accented architecture.

On the gameplay side, Riot is targeting broader strategic diversity and faster pacing. Updates arriving with Patch 26.01 aim to make split pushing and sieging more viable, balance role agency, and reduce what the developer describes as “objective fatigue.” Match flow has also been adjusted, with quicker Champion Select phases and earlier minion and jungle spawn times across Ranked, Normal, and Swiftplay queues.

Role quests have been reworked to offer more distinct rewards depending on position. Examples include enhanced recall options for mid laners and increased gold generation plus an additional item slot for bot laners once objectives are completed.

LEAGUE OF LEGENDS KICKS OFF 2026 WITH SEASON 1: FOR DEMACIA

Season 1 also introduces new map mechanics, including Faelights and Crystalline Overgrowth, alongside continued updates to Swiftplay and Ranked systems. Riot confirmed that ARAM: Mayhem will remain available longer than initially planned, with a larger update slated for Patch 26.03.

Additional content includes Demacia Rising, a season-long meta-game that evolves over time, as well as motion comics expanding the season’s narrative. A visual and gameplay update for Shyvana is planned for Act 2, featuring redesigned models for both her human and dragon forms.

Cosmetic releases are scheduled throughout the season, ranging from Battle Academia skins for Briar and Samira to a darker Demacia-themed set in Act 2. A Victorious Braum skin will be earnable by playing Ranked at any tier.

In esports, LoL Esports will debut a revised 2026 competitive format. The first global event, First Stand, runs March 16–22 in São Paulo, followed by MSI in Daejeon and Worlds 2026 returning to North America. Riot also outlined long-term plans beyond 2026, including a new client, a revamped Summoner’s Rift, and updates to runes and the new-player experience.