Runes are a fundamental part of League of Legends’ pre-game customization system. Introduced in their current form in 2018’s “Runes Reforged” update, they allow players to modify their champion’s strengths, weaknesses, and overall strategy before the match even starts.
What Do Runes Do?
Runes grant passive effects that enhance:
- Damage output
- Defensive capabilities
- Mobility
- Resource management (mana/energy)
- Healing, shielding, and sustain
They are chosen during champion select and cannot be changed mid-game. A well-chosen rune setup complements both the champion and the player’s playstyle.
The Five Main Rune Paths
Each primary path offers a keystone rune and three minor runes:
- Precision – Improves sustained damage and survivability
Example: Lethal Tempo, Presence of Mind - Domination – Focuses on burst damage and mobility
Example: Electrocute, Sudden Impact - Sorcery – Enhances spells and poking potential
Example: Summon Aery, Manaflow Band - Resolve – Increases durability and crowd control
Example: Grasp of the Undying, Second Wind - Inspiration – Offers unconventional strategies and tools
Example: Glacial Augment, Biscuit Delivery
Players also select a secondary path, choosing two more minor runes from a different tree.
Adaptive Stats and Flexibility
In addition to runes, players pick adaptive bonuses:
- +Attack Speed or +Ability Power
- +Armor or +Magic Resist
- +Scaling Health or +Flat HP
This adds further nuance, letting players adjust for matchups and team compositions.
How Runes Influence the Meta
Runes are central to the current build diversity in League. Riot frequently updates them to balance gameplay. For instance, the keystone Conqueror has gone through multiple nerfs and buffs, influencing its popularity across multiple roles.
Meta builds like Fleet Footwork Kai’Sa or Aftershock Alistar would be impossible without the flexibility the rune system offers.
Written by:
Christian