‘League Of Legends’ Players Reject Riot’s Explanation Of Hextech Chest Removal

Forbes - Feb 8th, 2025
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The League of Legends community is currently in turmoil after Riot Games announced the removal of free Hextech Chests, a mechanism that allowed players to earn free skins. Riot's decision, explained in a recently released video, highlights the need to balance free content with business sustainability. The video was not well-received by players who feel the company is prioritizing profit over player satisfaction. This decision has sparked significant backlash, with players expressing frustration over the removal of free content, poor game balance, and the perceived decline in game quality.

The controversy is exacerbated by Riot's recent focus on producing high-cost projects like the TV show Arcane, costing $250 million. Riot executive Marc Merrill clarified that their goal is to deliver long-term value rather than immediate profit. However, this message seems contradictory to players who are now being asked to pay more for game content. Internally, Riot employees are reportedly discontent, especially following recent layoffs. The decision has further strained Riot's relationship with its community, indicating a growing rift that may not resolve soon.

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RATING

5.4
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article effectively captures a timely and relevant issue within the gaming community, focusing on Riot Games' removal of free Hextech Chests in League of Legends. While it presents the community's dissatisfaction and touches on broader industry themes, the piece lacks balance and thoroughness in presenting Riot's perspective or providing authoritative sources. The clarity and readability are strengths, allowing readers to easily grasp the main points, but the absence of transparency and source quality undermines the overall credibility. Despite these weaknesses, the article successfully engages its target audience and contributes to ongoing discussions about game monetization, though it could benefit from more detailed analysis and diverse viewpoints to enhance its impact and balance.

RATING DETAILS

6
Accuracy

The article provides several factual claims that align with known events, such as the removal of free Hextech Chests by Riot Games, which is consistent with reports from other sources. However, the article lacks specific data points or direct statements from Riot Games that could enhance its factual accuracy. The claim about Riot's rationale for the removal being business-driven is plausible but not directly supported by a verifiable source within the article. Additionally, the mention of Riot's financial priorities and the community's reaction lacks concrete evidence or data, such as statistics or direct quotes from Riot executives, which would bolster the article's accuracy.

5
Balance

The article predominantly presents the perspective of dissatisfied players, highlighting community backlash and negative sentiments towards Riot's decision. It does not equally represent Riot's perspective or provide a detailed explanation of the company's strategic reasoning, aside from a brief mention of a business rationale. This imbalance in perspectives can lead readers to perceive the situation as more one-sided than it may be. Including more insights from Riot Games or industry analysts could have provided a more balanced view of the situation.

7
Clarity

The article is generally clear in its language and structure, making it easy for readers to follow the narrative. It succinctly outlines the main issue—the removal of free Hextech Chests—and the resulting community backlash. However, the article could benefit from a clearer presentation of Riot's perspective and the specific reasons behind their decision. The tone is somewhat informal and opinionated, which may affect the perception of neutrality but does not significantly hinder comprehension.

4
Source quality

The article does not reference specific sources or provide direct quotes from Riot Games or its executives, reducing the overall credibility of the information presented. It relies heavily on general community sentiment without citing specific forums, social media posts, or statements from credible industry insiders. The lack of authoritative sources or direct evidence weakens the reliability of the claims made, as readers cannot easily verify the information.

5
Transparency

The article lacks transparency regarding its sources and the basis for its claims. It does not clarify how the information was obtained or whether it is based on direct interviews, official statements, or secondary reports. This absence of transparency makes it difficult for readers to assess the validity of the claims or understand the context in which the information was gathered. Providing more background on the sources or the methodology used to gather information would enhance transparency.

Sources

  1. https://gamerant.com/riot-games-explains-hextech-chests-not-sustainable-league-of-legends/
  2. https://www.zleague.gg/theportal/league-of-legends-players-outraged-over-removal-of-hextech-chests/
  3. https://beamstart.com/news/league-of-legends-players-reject-17390348243670
  4. https://www.strafe.com/news/read/riot-games-criticized-for-hypocrisy-after-removal-of-hextech-chests/
  5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdjC1gKIsds