In the highly competitive world of League of Legends, standing out on the battlefield isn’t just about skill—it’s also about style. That’s where chromas come into play. These subtle yet impactful color variants allow players to personalize their favorite champion skins, adding a layer of visual flair without the need for entirely new models or effects.
What Are Chromas?
Chromas are color-swapped versions of existing skins. Rather than introducing a whole new look, they tweak the color palette—changing armor hues, magical effects, or even the champion’s hair color. It’s a small touch, but one that can completely transform the vibe of a skin. For players who already own a favorite look, a chroma adds variety without straying from the design they love.
How Do You Get Chromas?
There are several ways to unlock chromas using different currencies and through gameplay. The most common ways to purchase them directly are with RP (Riot Points) from the in-game store, or by using Blue Essence (BE) during special limited-time sales events (like the Essence Emporium) that occur periodically throughout the year.
Additionally, chromas are often bundled with themed events, tied to missions, or purchasable with event reward tokens. Riot Games also occasionally offers bundles that include multiple chromas for a particular skin, providing collectors with a way to expand their cosmetic library.
However, there’s a catch—you must already own the original skin to use its chromas. Chromas can’t be used on their own, so acquiring the base version is a prerequisite. This system ensures chromas act as enhancements rather than stand-alone items.
Why Players Love Chromas
Chromas appeal to both casual and competitive players for different reasons. Some want to match their champion’s look with a team color scheme or their Summoner icon. Others enjoy collecting them as part of a broader cosmetic goal. Because they’re generally more affordable than full skins (especially when purchased with BE), chromas are an accessible way to express identity and allegiance on the Rift.
There’s also a deeper psychological pull. In a game where visual feedback and familiarity matter, a chroma can make a well-worn skin feel fresh again—without compromising the gameplay clarity seasoned players rely on.
The Future of Chromas
As League continues to grow, so does the importance of player personalization. Chromas may not be as flashy as new skins or Prestige Editions, but they serve a clear purpose: allowing players to make champions truly their own. With each new skin release now routinely launching with a suite of chromas, it’s clear they’ve become an integral part of the game’s cosmetic ecosystem.
They’re not just recolors—they’re reflections of the millions of personalities that log in every day.
Written by:
Christian