League of Legends introduces for the first time a series of alternative controls that divide the community

The League of Legends community is in the midst of controversy following the implementation of alternative controls based on the WASD scheme, introduced by Riot Games in a December 3 update. This change, designed to make the game more accessible to new players, has sparked a series of negative reactions that raise serious doubts about its effectiveness.

WASD was not ready for LOL

Riot announced in August the adjustment as a way towards a more intuitive experience for those coming from other video games with conventional PC controls. However, the first impressions suggest an imbalance in gameplay that has generated discontent among users. While WASD allows for easier positioning, many players have noticed that it compromises advanced techniques like ‘animation cancelling’, which could affect the competitiveness of certain roles within the game.

During a testing period, the developer implemented a nerf to the attack speed for characters using the WASD control. According to players and analysts like Marc “Caedrel” Lamont, this modification has harmed high attack speed champions, leading to a notable reduction in efficiency. A user on the League of Legends subreddit pointed out that the WASD scheme presents a significant DPS loss, especially for high-speed champions.

Despite the setback, Riot has expressed that an adaptation period will be necessary for both players and their balance team, with the aim of fully assessing the impact that these new controls have on the game. The developers have assured that tests are being conducted with new players and that, although WASD is only part of the integration process into League of Legends, its future in competitive modes will be considered.

League of Legends DOWNLOAD