In League of Legends, success on the Rift requires more than just mechanics and map awareness—it also takes smart resource management. One of the most important in-game currencies is Blue Essence (BE), a core component of progression in Riot Games’ popular MOBA. Whether you’re a new Summoner or a seasoned veteran, understanding how to effectively use Blue Essence can dramatically improve your experience. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Blue Essence?
Blue Essence is a primary currency in League of Legends that players earn through gameplay. It replaced the old Influence Points (IP) back in 2017 and now serves as the go-to resource for unlocking champions, upgrading champion mastery, and more.
You can spot Blue Essence by its glowing blue shard icon in the upper-right corner of the client. Unlike Riot Points (RP), which are bought with real money, BE is entirely free to earn—making it the preferred currency for free-to-play users.
What Can You Spend Blue Essence On?
Blue Essence isn’t just for unlocking champions—it fuels several parts of your League experience:
1. Champion Unlocks
This is the most common use. Champions range from 450 BE (e.g., Annie) to 6,300 BE (e.g., newer releases). If you don’t want to wait for the free rotation, BE lets you permanently unlock your favorites.
2. Champion Mastery Upgrades
Reaching level 6 or 7 with a champion? You’ll need BE along with specific tokens:
- Level 6: 2 Mastery 6 tokens + 3,950 BE or a champ shard.
- Level 7: 3 Mastery 7 tokens + 2,950 BE or a champ shard.
3. Eternals (Starter Sets)
Blue Essence can unlock starter Eternal sets, which track in-game stats and milestones for individual champions. These cost 2,500 BE per champion.
4. Event Shop (Occasionally)
During special seasonal events—such as the Blue Essence Emporium—you can use your BE to buy exclusive content like chromas, emotes, icons, and even mystery skin shards.
5. Rune Pages (Previously)
Before runes became free and universal, BE could be used to purchase additional rune pages. While not as relevant now, this historical use was once key to customization.
Pro Tips for Maximizing Blue Essence
- Don’t rush to disenchant all champion shards. Some are worth more than others, and duplicates can be used for upgrades.
- Hold onto BE for the Blue Essence Emporium. This limited-time shop appears roughly twice a year and offers rare cosmetics only purchasable with BE.
- Use BE strategically. Focus on unlocking champions you genuinely plan to play or that are meta-relevant.
What Blue Essence Can’t Do
While BE is versatile, it’s not all-powerful. You can’t buy:
- Skins
- Battle Passes
- Champion Bundles
- Loot Crates (Hextech Chests or Keys)
Those are still locked behind RP, Riot’s premium currency.
The Blue Essence Emporium: A Fan Favorite
Twice a year (usually around mid-year and end-of-year), Riot opens the Blue Essence Emporium, a unique shop where players can splurge their BE on exclusive and goofy content—think Urfwick skin, mystery icons, and joke items. It’s one of the most anticipated events and a great reason to stockpile BE.
Final Thoughts
Blue Essence is more than just a number—it’s your passport to expanding your champion pool, showing off your mastery, and participating in seasonal events. Smart players manage it like a true resource: with patience, planning, and a little bit of flair.
So next time you level up or crack open a capsule, don’t just burn your BE—invest it wisely. The Rift awaits, but don´t forget to read the article about how to get blue essence.
Written by:
Christian