League of Legends Patch 26.18 Preview
Riot Games has released the preview for League of Legends Patch 26.18, introducing balance adjustments ahead of the competitive season's final stage. The update buffs seven champions, nerfs five, adjusts Cassiopeia, and strengthens Guinsoo’s Rageblade.
According to the developers, the patch is focused on stabilizing the game before Worlds 2026. Riot noted that the tournament will be played on Patch 25.20, meaning these changes are aimed at improving champion balance before the year's biggest event.
A key adjustment affects Guinsoo’s Rageblade. After the item was re-scripted in Patch 26.14, the Phantom Hit trigger changed from six attacks to seven. The developers plan to slightly increase the item’s strength and compensate champions affected by the change, including Master Yi.
Cassiopeia will see her early-game power shifted toward scaling to reduce lane dominance while maintaining her identity as a strong laner. Seraphine receives another nerf due to her high presence in frustration surveys and professional play, particularly alongside Ashe. Riot stated that support remains the main focus for the champion, while balancing her farming roles remains difficult.
Champion buffs include Aurelion Sol, Ekko, Kassadin, Master Yi, Renekton, Viego, and Zaahen. Nerfs target Bard, Nautilus, Seraphine, Syndra, and Zeri.
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