Updated on August 22, 2:28 p.m. (GMT+8): Added graphics with numbers posted by Riot Phroxzon, added more system nerfs.
League of Legends Lead Gameplay Designer Matt “Riot Phroxzon” Leung-Harrison posted a preview of LoL patch 14.17.
In the tweet, he confirmed that Worlds 2024 will be played on patch 14.18, which is why patch 14.17 is intended to start paving the meta in preparation for League of Legends’ biggest tournament of the year.
He also shared how the team is thinking about the state of ADCs and supports in the meta, and gave more context to the Aurora nerfs.
Preview: LoL patch 14.17 notes rundown
How the game developers are assessing ADCs in LoL patch 14.17
This patch focuses on adjusting the Absorb Life, Cut Down, and Fleet Footwork runes, as these have proven highly effective, particularly for ADCs in the mid lane, shared Riot Phroxzon.
The recent meta shifts, including changes to runes, AP and ADC items, and experience gain, have collectively enhanced the power of ADCs in solo lanes.
In patch 14.16, early indications suggest that nerfs targeting the one-item spike (such as Blade of the Ruined King) and individual champion nerfs (like Corki and Lucian) are showing promising results.
Additionally, the balance team is toning down top-performing bot lane champions, including Ashe and Ezreal.
How the game developers are viewing supports in LoL patch 14.17
Over the past year, numerous changes across various game areas have significantly impacted the role of ranged supports, leading to their near phasing out of the meta.
Initially, these supports were somewhat sustained by Bloodsong, but since patch 14.10, a series of adjustments, such as the red side bot lane gank changes, reduced the value of their heals. Buffs to tank supports have further diminished their effectiveness, Riot Phroxzon explained.
Currently, the balance team is evaluating which aspects of the game might be adjusted to balance the meta more effectively through, for example, adjusting Celestial Opposition, Warmog’s Armor, Aftershock, and even specific champions.
Riot Phroxzon added that some champions outside of Senna and Seraphine who were addressed in the last patch, still require targeted adjustments. Their ultimate goal is to enhance the viability of both ranged and melee supports.
LoL patch 14.17 champion buffs
- Caitlyn
- Graves
- Kindred
- Ryze
- Varus
LoL patch 14.17 champion nerfs
- Ashe
- Aurora
- Brand
- Ezreal
- Katarina
- Kennen
- LeBlanc
- Lillia
- Pyke
- Rumble
- Senna (AP)
- Seraphine
- Sylas
Why Aurora is getting nerfed
Aurora’s recent adjustments have positioned her quite well — but the balance team still plans to make further refinements, such as enhancing the clarity of her Q and R visuals.
Numbers wise, her wave clear and damage have improved, shifting her focus slightly towards the mid lane rather than top lane, which aligns with their goal. They’re also exploring changes to reduce her dominance in elite play.
Overall, they expect that over time, players will become more adept at countering her as they get used to dodging her Q and anticipating her ultimate angles. Consequently, she’ll naturally become less dominant over time.
LoL patch 14.17 system nerfs
- Absorb Life
- Cut Down
- Fleet Footwork
- Celestial Opposition
- Warmorg’s Armor
LoL patch 14.17 system adjustments
- Support ecosystem
READ MORE: All teams qualified for Worlds 2024 — full list of regions, qualification path
