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Game Developers Detail Patch 26.6 Updates, Shyvana Visual and Gameplay Rework, and Season 1 Ranked Adjustments

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Game Developers Unveil Extensive Upcoming Updates

Game developers have released information regarding upcoming updates, including Patch 26.6, a comprehensive Visual and Gameplay Update (VGU) for the champion Shyvana, and modifications to the Season 1 ranked ladder. Details also covered improvements in matchmaking, an indefinite extension for the ARAM: Mayhem game mode, and the future champion release schedule.

Key updates include a comprehensive VGU for Shyvana, significant adjustments to the Season 1 ranked ladder, and the indefinite extension of ARAM: Mayhem.

Shyvana Receives Comprehensive Visual and Gameplay Update

The champion Shyvana, known as The Half-Dragon, is scheduled to receive a Visual and Gameplay Update (VGU) in Patch 26.6. This update, influenced by player feedback and developed in collaboration with dedicated players, aims to refresh her gameplay, playstyle, artwork, in-game model, and lore while maintaining her core identity. Shyvana's lore continues to depict her as a half-dragon warrior serving in Demacia's royal guard.

The VGU for Shyvana focuses on refreshing her gameplay, visuals, and lore while preserving her essential character as The Half-Dragon.

Revised Abilities Detailed

Shyvana's revised abilities are designed for dynamic feel in both Human and Dragon Forms:

  • Passive – Scalemail: Takedowns on enemy champions, large minions, and large monsters provide Scalemail stacks, which enhance defensive statistics.
  • Q – Emberstrike: The next attack hits the primary target and nearby enemies. It can be recast, and in Dragon Form, it gains an additional recast.
  • W – Inferno Aegis: Shyvana gains a shield and bonus movement speed before an area around her detonates. In Dragon Form, the explosion heals her if it hits an enemy champion or monster.
  • E – Molten Burst: A fireball is launched, exploding on large targets and slowing them. In Dragon Form, it pierces enemies, explodes on large targets, and leaves a burning trail.
  • R – Dragon’s Descent: Shyvana transforms into Dragon Form, leaps forward, and fears enemies. While transformed, her size increases, and basic abilities become empowered.

All existing Shyvana skins will remain available. A limited-time exclusive "Leg Day Bundle" is also planned for release.

Season 1 Ranked Ladder Sees Significant Adjustments

Developers provided an overview of Season 1 competitive changes, reporting satisfaction with early gameplay adjustments. Queue health has improved, with the average time to enter a game decreasing by approximately 30 percent. Furthermore, the rate of lobby dodges has reduced from 19 percent to 4 percent.

Matchmaking Rating Distribution Modified

Modifications to the Matchmaking Rating (MMR) distribution have been implemented across the ranked ladder:

  • Players previously in Iron have been moved to Bronze, repositioning Iron as a tier intended for new players.
  • High-end Diamond players have been moved into Master tier to address skill differentials observed between Diamond IV and Diamond I.
  • The MMR range for the Master tier has been expanded, resulting in a higher LP requirement for reaching Apex tiers.

Further adjustments to the Ranked ladder, potentially including additional divisions or tiers at the extreme ends of the ranking system, are under consideration.

Ongoing Gameplay & Matchmaking Observations

Specific areas under continued observation by the development team include Faelights, Attack Damage Carry (ADC) balance, and top lane power levels. Community feedback is being solicited regarding potential item returns. Source 2 reported that the return of Hextech Gunblade and Stormrazor has occurred, and feedback on other potential item returns is being considered. Source 1 stated that feedback on item returns would exclude Hextech Gunblade and Stormrazor.

ARAM: Mayhem Game Mode Extended Indefinitely

The ARAM: Mayhem game mode has had its run extended indefinitely due to positive player feedback. The development team plans to add new content and balance updates for the mode.

Future Champion Release Schedule Outlined

No new champions are planned for release in Season 1. A new champion is confirmed for Season 2, with thematic connections to both Season 1 and Season 2.