Riot Games has unveiled the latest addition to League of Legends’ ever-expanding roster: Zaahen, the Unsundered — a fallen god whose story and skill set intertwine themes of divine power, inner turmoil, and brutal combat precision. Designed primarily for the top lane, Zaahen embodies both the nobility and corruption that define the Darkin lineage, offering players a champion who rewards endurance and aggression in equal measure.

According to Riot’s lead gameplay designer Blake “Squad5” Smith, Zaahen was conceived as “a tougher, top lane melee character” who bridges the gap between the grounded martial prowess of champions like Xin Zhao and the godlike menace of other Darkin. “We wanted to make something that felt like it hit similar notes but was uniquely his own thing,” Smith said.

“Ascended. Darkin. I am the blade between.”

Lore-wise, Zaahen stands apart from his kin. Once sealed within his own glaive to escape madness, he now roams Runeterra as both hunter and redeemer — pursuing his corrupted brethren while battling the same darkness within himself. His narrative plays directly into his gameplay, which centers on stacking Determination to amplify his strength and, at full capacity, gain the ability to revive.

Zaahen’s kit blends fast-paced dueling with sustained combat mechanics:

• Passive – Cultivation of War: Attacks and abilities against champions build Determination, granting bonus Attack Damage and, when filled, temporary revival.

• Q – The Darkin Glaive: A double-slash that heals Zaahen and can knock up foes on recast.

• W – Dreaded Return: A stab that damages and pulls enemies inward.

• E – Aureate Rush: A short dash with an area-of-effect slash.

• R – Grim Deliverance: A leaping strike that damages enemies and restores health.

Smith notes that Zaahen’s combat style “ramps up the longer he fights,” rewarding players who can stay engaged and manage his passive’s timing. Opponents, meanwhile, are advised to “kite Zaahen” and avoid empowering his Determination stacks.

Zaahen, the Unsundered, will enter the League of Legends PBE later this month before heading to live servers in a future patch.