League of Legends Tests WASD Controls After 16 Years
▼ Summary
– Riot Games is introducing WASD controls to League of Legends, offering a fresh yet familiar control scheme for players.
– WASD controls are being added because they are the most familiar PC gaming scheme and could make the game more intuitive for newcomers.
– Riot will test WASD controls on the public beta environment first to ensure competitive balance before wider rollout.
– League of Legends has a steep learning curve, and WASD controls may lower the barrier to entry for new players.
– This change is part of Riot’s long-term projects aimed at shaping the future of League of Legends.
League of Legends is breaking tradition by testing WASD movement controls for the first time in its 16-year history, marking a significant shift from its classic point-and-click mechanics. Riot Games announced the experimental feature as part of efforts to make the game more accessible while preserving its core identity.
The developer describes WASD as the most universally recognized PC gaming control scheme, arguing it could help newcomers transition more smoothly from other titles. “This provides a fresh but familiar way to play without altering what defines League,” Riot explained. The change aims to reduce the steep learning curve often cited by new players, though the studio emphasizes competitive fairness remains a priority.
Before a full rollout, WASD controls will debut on the Public Beta Environment (PBE) for testing. Riot plans a phased implementation, starting with casual modes before considering ranked and professional play. The cautious approach reflects concerns about balancing gameplay between traditional and new control methods.
Since its 2009 launch, League’s complexity has both fueled its depth and intimidated potential players. Many find its mechanics overwhelming despite the game’s massive esports presence. WASD controls represent just the first step in broader modernization efforts aimed at keeping the title relevant for future audiences. Riot hints at additional updates in development but hasn’t revealed specifics yet.
The move signals Riot’s willingness to evolve long-established systems, potentially reshaping how millions interact with one of gaming’s most enduring titles. Whether veterans embrace the change or stick to classic controls remains to be seen, but the experiment could redefine accessibility in MOBAs.
(Source: The Verge)
