League of Legends’ latest Patch 25.10 arrives at a pivotal moment for the professional scene. With major regions including the LEC, LPL, and LTA North and South beginning their Playoffs around May 24th, this update will likely shape team strategies for those seeking to qualify for this year’s Mid-Season Invitational.
After examining the recent patch notes, here’s how these changes could influence the esports landscape.
Patch 25.10 releases today (May 14), giving teams over a week to experiment with different approaches based on Riot’s adjustments to champions and items—particularly AP ones.
AP Item Rebalancing Shifts Power Dynamics
Many AP items have undergone rebalancing, potentially altering the effectiveness of mid-lane champions and magic damage dealers. Some previously underperforming items received buffs to increase viability, such as Luden’s Echo with its enhanced magic penetration. Conversely, other items faced nerfs, including Crown of the Shattered Queen, which saw a reduction in its passive damage reduction.
Rising Playoff Contenders
The balance adjustments in Patch 25.10 highlight several champions as standout playoff contenders. Cho’Gath and Jax both received direct buffs, potentially reintroducing them to the meta as high-value solo lane selections.
In the jungle position, Evelynn’s increased E damage could strengthen her viability, especially for teams that prefer high-risk, high-reward engagements. For those seeking a safer option, Swain represents another potentially overlooked champion—particularly in support or mid roles—as his enhanced durability and damage scaling could make him one of the most sought-after picks.
The buff to Unsealed Spellbook carries significant implications. This rune, often utilized by flexible utility picks such as Gragas, Twisted Fate or Karma, might lead to new draft patterns emphasizing mid-game macro and summoner spell cycling, complementing the uncertainties of Fearless Draft.
Implications for MSI Qualification
At this stage in the competitive calendar, professional League of Legends teams aim to solidify their regional standing while securing a spot at the 2025 MSI, scheduled for June. Patch 25.10 introduces crucial changes that teams will attempt to leverage to gain an advantage in the race for the first international event of the year—which also provides the initial qualification for Worlds 2025.
Different regions will likely interpret Patch 25.10 in various ways. LEC teams might favor scaling mid laner AP control mages, while LPL and LCK organizations could focus more on surprising AP jungle selections—particularly with the added flexibility from Unsealed Spellbook. Meanwhile, LTA North and South teams might explore support experimentation for utility-heavy composition options.
The champion buffs, item changes, and new possibilities in the rune system, combined with Fearless Draft, will certainly transform the Spring Playoffs across all regions. Teams that can rapidly adapt and succeed with these changes may gain the upper hand in both regional and international competitions.