Understanding “Reset” in League of Legends

Updated: 18th September 2025 2 min read

In the strategic and fast-paced world of League of Legends, a single word can hold multiple, critical meanings. “Reset” is one such term, a versatile piece of jargon that is fundamental to both individual champion mechanics and overarching team strategy.

For new players and veterans alike, understanding its dual definitions is essential for better gameplay and clearer communication.

The Two Core Meanings of Reset

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When a player mentions a “reset,” they are typically referring to one of two key concepts:

  1. Champion Ability Reset: This is a champion-specific mechanic where a successful takedown—defined as either a kill or an assist—instantly refreshes the cooldown of an ability. Champions with this ability can snowball in teamfights, chaining their skills to deal massive damage and execute multiple opponents in quick succession.
  2. Macro/Map Reset: This refers to a team-wide strategic decision to disengage from a current situation. After a skirmish, a failed objective attempt, or simply to buy new items and heal, a team may “reset” by recalling to their base. This strategic pause allows them to regain strength, upgrade their gear, and prepare for the next engagement with a full advantage.

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Why Reset Matters

Both forms of reset are vital to gameplay and can significantly influence the outcome of a match:

  • For Champions: The ability to reset cooldowns transforms a champion’s potential, allowing them to rapidly turn the tide of a fight and make teamfights more explosive. A player who masters this mechanic can execute breathtaking plays that seem impossible to counter.
  • For Teams: On a larger scale, knowing when to “reset” as a team is a key indicator of strategic intelligence. It prevents a team from overextending and gives them a tactical pause to regroup, get back to full health, and prepare for the next major play or objective contest. This smart management of tempo can be the difference between a hard-won victory and a devastating defeat.

Common Champions and Situations

You’ll often hear “reset” in these contexts:

  • Champions: Well-known champions like Katarina, Viego, and Darius are famous for their ability resets, with kits that are designed to capitalize on successful takedowns.
  • Strategic Calls: In-game leaders often call for a “reset” after a teamfight, a failed tower push, or when enemies are about to respawn, signaling that the team should back away, regroup, and prepare for the next phase of the game.

Ultimately, mastering both the individual and team-based meanings of “reset” is crucial for executing cleaner plays and efficiently managing the tempo of your games.

Written by:

Christian