In League of Legends, champions and skins come alive not only through stunning visuals but also through their captivating voice lines, which add depth to their personalities and gameplay. However, fans awaiting the next wave of skins might be disappointed as upcoming releases will lack custom voice lines due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike.
The strike, which began on July 26, 2024, arose after negotiations between the union representing voice actors and major game publishers broke down. Key concerns include protecting performers against AI exploitation, ensuring their voices and performances aren’t used without proper consent or compensation.
As part of the strike, SAG-AFTRA members are prohibited from working on or promoting games developed by companies under strike conditions.
In response, Riot Games has decided to proceed with releasing new skins for both League of Legends and Wild Rift without custom voice lines in English. This move respects the striking voice actors while addressing the practical challenges of continuing development amid the labor dispute.
The decision ensures players still receive visually stunning skins, though it may affect the overall experience for those who look forward to new lines alongside their champion’s fresh look.
Skins Affected by the Strike
Riot has confirmed that most upcoming skins will rely on existing base voiceovers for English, while other languages may still receive custom recordings. Notably, high-rarity skins, which traditionally include unique voice lines, will also launch without them during the strike. Once the dispute is resolved and recording can resume, Riot has promised to update these skins with new voice lines where possible.
One eagerly awaited release, Radiant Serpent Sett, will feature custom voice lines in its native languages upon its launch on January 9, 2025. However, future high-rarity skins remain subject to these limitations until the strike concludes.
The League of Legends community has shared mixed feelings about this announcement. While many players express disappointment over the absence of fresh voice lines
Others view Riot’s decision as a necessary stand in support of voice actors seeking fair treatment and compensation. Some even applaud the solidarity Riot has shown by prioritizing ethical considerations over the immediate demand for new content.
The Bigger Picture
Voice lines are an essential part of a champion’s identity, weaving stories and forging connections with players. Without them, something feels missing—like a song without its melody. Yet this moment also reminds the League community of the importance of supporting the creators who bring champions to life.
Riot Games has reassured players that custom voice lines for affected skins will be added when circumstances allow. Until then, the champions’ stories will be carried forward by the players themselves, as they remain the true voices behind their favorite characters.
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