In a thrilling reveal during the Mid-Season Invitational 2026 Finals, Riot Games has finally confirmed the arrival of League of Legends Classic, a permanent game mode that will transport players back to the iconic third season of the game. Set to launch on July 29, 2026, alongside Patch 26.15, this mode is designed to offer a faithful recreation of the Season 3 experience, complete with classic champions, items, and systems. The announcement ends months of speculation and promises a nostalgic journey for veterans while providing a simplified entry point for newcomers.

A Permanent Trip Down Memory Lane

League of Legends Classic will be seamlessly integrated into the existing Riot Client, meaning players won't need to download a separate launcher or manage multiple installations. With just a few clicks, they can dive into a retro version of Summoner's Rift that features its original layout and art style. At launch, the mode will include 60 champions—the original 40 from 2009 plus 20 additional ones—each with their pre-rework kits, restoring beloved abilities for characters like Sion and Skarner. Classic systems such as original rune pages and mastery trees will also make a comeback, offering a gameplay depth that defined the early competitive scene.

Iconic Items and Mechanics Return

One of the most exciting aspects of this mode is the reintroduction of long-gone items and mechanics that shaped the meta of Season 3. Players can once again wield the infamous Deathfire Grasp, a burst mage staple, and explore other classic items that have since been removed or reworked. The mode also brings back Influence Points as the primary in-game currency, with a separate shop and progression system distinct from the main game. An account level cap of 30 and a dedicated battle pass will ensure that Classic feels both authentic and structured, balancing nostalgia with modern accessibility.

Community Showmatches and Early Previews

To build excitement and showcase the mode's mechanics, Riot is hosting two showmatches for the EU and NA LCS in the days leading up to the global launch. These events will give the community an early glimpse of how League of Legends Classic plays at a competitive level, featuring pro players adapting to the retro environment. This move highlights Riot's commitment to engaging both old-school fans and newer players who may be curious about the game's roots.

A Strategic Release Ahead of Schedule

The decision to launch Classic earlier than initially expected signals Riot's intent to capitalize on the strong wave of nostalgia among long-time players while offering a simplified entry point for those new to the game. By integrating the mode directly into the Riot Client and providing a separate progression system, Riot aims to keep the main game unaffected while giving Classic its own identity. With a dedicated battle pass and a level cap of 30, the mode strikes a balance between authentic retro gameplay and modern convenience, ensuring it appeals to a wide audience.

  • Launch date: July 29, 2026, with Patch 26.15

  • 60 champions at launch, including original 40 and 20 post-2009 additions

  • Classic items like Deathfire Grasp and original Summoner's Rift map

  • Separate shop, progression system, Influence Points, and account level cap of 30

  • Two showmatches for EU and NA LCS before global launch

Source: Sport.ua – Official announcement details and context provided by https://sport.ua/news/888891-ofitsialno-riot-anonsirovali-vyhod-league-of-legends-classic