Key Takeaways
1. Riot Games is introducing a WASD control scheme for League of Legends, replacing the classic point-and-click method.
2. The new control option aims to make the game more accessible for new and returning players, creating a more intuitive experience.
3. The WASD scheme is familiar to many PC gamers, helping to lower the entry barrier for newcomers to the complex MOBA.
4. An extended public beta for the WASD controls will begin in late August, allowing for thorough playtesting and community feedback.
5. The WASD controls will initially be available in non-ranked modes, with plans to implement them in ranked and professional play after adjustments are made.
Riot Games has shared exciting news about its hugely popular MOBA, League of Legends, which first came out on October 27, 2009. After almost 16 years since its launch, the game is set to bring in a WASD control scheme.
A New Way to Play
The new WASD option, which replaces the classic point-and-click method, is aimed at making the game more accessible for both new and returning players. With this change, gamers can now move their champions using the W, A, S, and D keys on their keyboards, a feature many have been waiting for.
In a development update dated August 11, 2025, Riot Games stated, “We believe that offering WASD controls will provide a fresh yet familiar way to play for both new players and veterans of Summoner’s Rift without changing what makes League, League.”
Familiar Controls for Everyone
The decision to include the WASD scheme comes from the understanding that it is “the most familiar control scheme for PC games today.” Many players find themselves naturally placing their fingers on the WASD keys when transitioning from other games back to League of Legends. Riot believes this addition will make the game more intuitive for those coming from different gaming backgrounds.
This modification could help lower the entry barrier into the complex MOBA, which is often daunting for newcomers, despite there being around 13 million active monthly players and over 3.2 million daily users.
Testing Phase Ahead
Riot is set to implement the new WASD controls in an extended public beta on the game’s Public Beta Environment, which is expected to kick off in late August and will last across several patches for thorough playtesting and collecting feedback.
Internal testing has already happened, including player labs and demos during the Mid-Season Invitational 2025. Players provided feedback on aspects needing adjustment, like kiting, moving while attacking, and ensuring fair play while using the WASD setup.
Following the Public Extended Beta, the WASD scheme will be available for non-ranked modes such as casual Summoner’s Rift and All Random All Mid 5v5 mode. Eventually, it will be introduced into ranked and professional play after community input and necessary adjustments to fix any bugs.
Riot Games has mentioned that the WASD option is just one of many long-term projects they are working on to help shape the future of League of Legends.
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