Riot Faces Backlash Over 0 League of Legends Cosmetic
Riot recently faced criticism from League of Legends fans for introducing a cosmetic skin that cost up to 0. The skin was created to honor renowned League player Faker, the first inductee into Riot’s Hall of Legends. However, many players were upset that the high price prevented them from participating in the celebration.
During a Q&A at Summer Games Fest, game director Pu Liu addressed the issue of expensive cosmetics. He emphasized that Riot does not intend to make a habit of setting such high prices. The company released a video explaining that the cost of the skin was meant to cover esports expenses and pay tribute to iconic pro players.
While some League bundles and skins are priced reasonably, the 0 Ahri skin is considered an outlier. This type of cosmetic is typically purchased by a small group of players known as “whales,” who spend significant amounts on in-game items.
Riot clarified that the skins it sells are purely cosmetic and do not provide any competitive advantage. However, some skins have been banned from professional play due to minor visibility or clarity issues. Despite this, the majority of players enjoy the game without spending any money.
While Riot acknowledges the importance of catering to players willing to spend on their hobbies, the 0 price tag for the Ahri skin sparked outrage among fans. Many felt that locking the skin behind such a high paywall was exploitative and disrespectful to the community.
Ultimately, Riot aims to strike a balance between offering paid content for dedicated players and maintaining a positive free-to-play experience for all users. The company recognizes the need to ensure that the majority of players can enjoy the game without feeling pressured to make expensive purchases.
