League of Legends is known for its high-stakes 5v5 matches, intense teamfights, and strategic coordination. But what happens when you’re a solo player entering a game built for teamwork? Many newcomers and veterans alike wonder: Can you play League of Legends alone—and enjoy it?
The short answer is yes—but the experience comes with unique challenges and opportunities.
Solo Queue: The Heart of Competitive Solo Play
The most prominent way to play League solo is through Solo/Duo Queue, Riot Games’ primary ranked ladder. Despite the name, players can enter either alone or with one partner, but many opt to queue solo for the purest competitive climb.
In this mode, you’re matched with four random teammates and face off against five others. While coordination can be harder without voice comms or pre-existing synergy, Riot’s matchmaking system attempts to balance teams based on skill and recent performance.
Normal Games: Casual and Solo-Friendly
If ranked pressure isn’t your style, League offers normal games, where matchmaking is often more relaxed. These include:
- Blind Pick: Choose your champion without bans or priority order.
- Draft Pick: Closer to ranked, with champion bans and role selection.
- ARAM (All Random All Mid): A chaotic, single-lane mode that’s ideal for short, casual solo sessions.
These game types are ideal for learning new champions, practicing mechanics, or just playing without the stress of ranked expectations.
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Bot Games and Practice Mode
For true solo experiences, League also includes Co-op vs. AI matches and a Practice Tool. While not competitive, these modes are useful for:
- Testing builds or combos
- Learning basic game flow
- Warming up before serious matches
However, these modes lack the depth and unpredictability of real player interactions, making them less engaging over time.
The Solo Experience: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- No need to coordinate schedules or communicate extensively.
- Greater focus on personal growth, mechanics, and decision-making.
- Less pressure from disappointing teammates (or being disappointed).
Cons:
- Team-based objectives can be harder to secure alone (e.g., dragons, baron).
- Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings or missed plays.
- You have less control over the outcome when teammates underperform.
Solo But Not Isolated: Community and Learning
Even solo players can benefit from League’s vast community resources. From YouTube guides and Twitch streams to Discord servers and Social Media threads, there are endless ways to connect, learn, and improve—without ever joining a team.
Final Thoughts
Yes, you can absolutely play League of Legends alone. In fact, many of the game’s most dedicated players spend the majority of their time in solo queue. While teamwork remains at the heart of the game, solo play offers a deeply rewarding experience for those willing to adapt, learn, and focus on personal growth.
In League, you’re never truly alone on the Rift—but you can still go far on your own.
Written by:
Christian