Riot Games is preparing to launch Swiftplay, a brand-new game mode set to replace Quickplay in 2025. Here’s everything you need to know about how it works, how it differs from Quickplay, and its impact on the game.
What is Swiftplay?
Swiftplay is a casual mode tailored for those looking to unwind with a less competitive but still immersive League experience. Taking place on Summoner’s Rift, it features the classic 5v5 format, but with notable tweaks to gameplay mechanics.
Riot describes the mode as a way to make the game more accessible. In a recent blog post, the developer explained, “Our goal with creating this new queue is to create a more accessible experience for players that are looking for a bit more of the traditional League experience,”
“Players who want to play with friends, players who just want to chill in the evening after work”
How is Swiftplay Different from Quickplay?
While it retains the familiar Summoner’s Rift layout, Swiftplay introduces several key changes to gameplay mechanics. Here are the notable differences:
- Dynamic Gold and Experience Scaling
- As matches progress, all sources of gold and experience will increase their payouts, making mid-to-late-game rewards more impactful.
- Players falling behind will gain more gold and experience, making it easier to stay competitive.
- Reduced Snowballing
- Gaining advantages by exploiting weaker opponents will be less rewarding. Teams will need to strategize beyond picking on struggling players to secure leads.
- Faster Timelines for Rift Mechanics Several Summoner’s Rift features will have accelerated timings to make matches quicker and more dynamic:
- Turret plating falls earlier.
- Baron Nashor spawns sooner.
- Only three drakes are required to claim a Dragon Soul.
- Jungle and support items complete faster.
- Enhanced Gold Distribution
- Similar to ARAM, all nearby champions will earn some gold when a minion dies, but players who secure the last hit will still receive the full value.
- Supports will earn increased gold overall, offset by a rise in the cost of their items.
Impact on Other Queues
Swiftplay will replace Quickplay when it launches. Riot decided to avoid running both modes simultaneously to prevent extended queue times. Other queues, including ranked modes and ARAM, will remain unaffected.
When Will Swiftplay Be Available?
Swiftplay will debut on the PBE with Patch 25.S1.1, scheduled for December 11, 2024. Riot is encouraging players to test the mode and provide feedback for final adjustments.
The official release is planned for January 6, 2025, with the full launch of Patch 25.S1.1. This update will also bring a new battle pass, ranked season updates, a new Rift monster, and numerous gameplay improvements.