Riot Games is rolling out Patch 25.T1.4 (15.4) for League of Legends on February 19, introducing major balance changes to champions, items, and runes. The most impactful adjustments target Mel, the latest champion, along with several tank items that have dominated the meta.
Patch Highlights: Mel and Tank Item Nerfs
The upcoming patch focuses on balancing champions and reducing the power of tank items, which have been making certain champions like Dr. Mundo, Skarner, and K’Sante nearly unkillable too early in the game. Riot aims to ensure a fairer meta where tanks don’t become overpowered in the early stages.
Meanwhile, Mel, who had already received balance changes in previous patches, is once again being adjusted. Although Riot describes these as “neutral adjustments,” they seem to lean more towards nerfs to curb her dominance.
Champion Changes in Patch 25.T1.4
Buffed Champions:
- Ashe
- Ekko
- Gangplank
- Jayce (W Ability)
- Nautilus
- Rakan
- Sion
- Teemo (Jungle viability improvements)
- Yasuo
Nerfed Champions:
- Garen
- Hwei
- Kalista
- Kog’Maw
- Lulu
- Warwick
Neutral Adjustments:
- Diana
- Elise
- Twitch
- Mel (Significant ability changes detailed below)
Mel’s Adjustments in Patch 25.T1.4
Q (Primary Ability) Nerfs:
- Range reduced from 1000 to 950.
- Projectile speed decreased from 5000 to 4500.
W (Defensive Ability) Nerfs:
- Duration reduced from 1 second to 0.75 seconds.
- Mana cost increased from 60/45/30/15/0 to 80/60/40/20/0.
- Reflected damage reduced from 40/47.5/55/62.5/70% to 40/45/50/55/60%.
E (Control Ability) Adjustments:
- Root duration modified from 1.75/1.88/2/2.13/2.25s to 1.25/1.5/1.75/2/2.25s.
- Direct damage per hit increased from 60/100/140/180/220 + 50% AP to 60/105/150/195/240 + 60% AP.
R (Ultimate Ability) Buff:
- Passive damage per stack increased from 4/7/10 + 2.5% AP to 4/7/10 + 3.5% AP.
Item and System Changes
Buffed Items:
- Magic Resistance Boots
- Symbiotic Boots
Nerfed Items:
- Abyssal Mask
- Winter’s Approach
- Heartsteel
- Enhanced Armor Boots
- Endless Despair
General Adjustments:
- Infinity Edge (Tuning adjustments expected)
What to Expect from Patch 25.T1.4?
This patch aims to adjust the power balance between champions and tank items, preventing early-game dominance from tank-heavy compositions. Mel’s adjustments will likely influence her playstyle, while buffs to certain ADCs and junglers like Ashe, Ekko, and Yasuo might shake up the current meta.
With the official patch notes still subject to final tweaks, expect further updates from Riot Games as we get closer to the release date.
Conclusion
Patch 25.T1.4 introduces essential balance updates that will affect both competitive and casual play. With tank items being nerfed and several champions receiving key changes, players will need to adapt their strategies. Keep an eye out for Riot’s final tweaks before the official launch on February 19.