Riot Defends High Price of Faker Skin Bundle in League of Legends Patch 14.12

by Frank McDougall
in News, Release
on 12 June 2024

Riot Games recently released Patch 14.12 in their popular game, League of Legends, which brought a number of balance changes to champions and introduced the Hall of Legends. As part of this update, Riot honored veteran pro player Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok, calling him the “GOAT” and making him the first ever inductee into the Hall of Legends for his exceptional skills and accomplishments.

However, along with this prestigious title, a new skin bundle was also introduced, which has sparked controversy among gamers. The Faker skin bundle comes with a hefty price tag of $430, and despite including a variety of in-game items, it has left the majority of League of Legends players frustrated and outraged.

Riot representatives have taken a defensive stance, confidently standing by the costly bundle. In response to the ongoing anger expressed by gamers, Riot’s Head of Studio, Andrei “Meddler” van Roon, clarified that the high price point of the Faker skin bundle serves to sustain the League of Legends esports ecosystem.

According to Meddler, the introduction of such a tailored and exclusive bundle allows players who are willing to pay more to obtain a coveted skin and demonstrate their support for the competitive aspect of the game. In addition, the update also offers event skins at a much lower cost for players who do not wish to invest significantly.

Riot emphasizes that the esports scene is mainly funded through sponsorships and in-game cosmetic sales. While they are not facing financial struggles like other esports scenes, Riot recognizes the importance of exploring new avenues to generate revenue in support of the competitive side of League of Legends.

Despite Riot’s explanation, not all players are convinced. Some argue that the “exclusivity” of the Faker skin bundle unfairly excludes common players and goes against the inclusive nature of the game. They view it as a greed-driven maneuver rather than a rational business decision. However, others argue that perhaps they are not the target audience and that exclusive and expensive skins are highly valued by gamers in certain regions, such as China.

While the debate continues, Riot remains committed to providing a variety of options tailored to different player preferences and to further developing their esports ecosystem through innovative offerings like the Faker skin bundle in League of Legends Patch 14.12.

Additional Facts:
1. Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most successful professional players in the history of League of Legends.
2. The Faker skin bundle includes not only a skin for Faker’s signature champion, Ryze, but also exclusive icons, borders, and other in-game cosmetics.
3. The release of the Faker skin bundle coincides with the celebration of Faker’s 10-year career in professional League of Legends.

Most Important Questions and Answers:
1. Why is the Faker skin bundle so expensive?
The high price of the Faker skin bundle is justified by Riot as a means to sustain the esports ecosystem of League of Legends, mainly through funding from sponsorships and in-game cosmetic sales.

2. Does Riot offer cheaper options for players who don’t want to spend a lot?
Yes, Riot also provides event skins at a much lower cost for players who are not willing to invest significantly in the game.

Key Challenges or Controversies:
1. Exclusivity vs. Inclusivity: Some players argue that the Faker skin bundle goes against the inclusive nature of the game by excluding common players. They see it as a move driven by greed rather than a rational business decision.
2. Cultural Differences: The value placed on exclusive and expensive skins varies among different regions. While some players may criticize the high price, others argue that these types of skins are highly valued, especially in regions like China.

Advantages:
1. Supports the esports ecosystem: The revenue generated from the Faker skin bundle contributes to sustaining the competitive side of League of Legends.
2. Offers a way for fans to show support: Players who are willing to pay more for the bundle can obtain a coveted skin and demonstrate their support for the competitive aspect of the game.

Disadvantages:
1. Exclusion of common players: The high price of the Faker skin bundle may alienate players who cannot afford or are unwilling to spend such a large amount of money on in-game cosmetics.
2. Perception of greed: Some players view the expensive bundle as a cash grab, potentially harming Riot’s image and reputation among certain segments of the player base.

The source of the article is from the blog xn--campiahoy-p6a.es