(League of Legends) LoL Trails: Paths of Glory

What is League of Legends Trials?

League of Legends Trials was a limited-time, in-game event that ran alongside the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI). It offered players the chance to align themselves with one of four “houses,” each representing a different theme or faction. By completing missions and playing games, players earned points for their chosen house, competing against others for rewards.

• Ran concurrently with MSI, adding engagement beyond watching pro play.
• Featured missions that encouraged active participation in various game modes.
• Allowed players to support a particular “house” and feel a sense of community.
• Provided rewards based on both individual effort and the success of your chosen house.

The event’s design aimed to deepen player involvement with MSI and the overall League of Legends experience. Players could earn icons, emotes, and other cosmetic items, providing tangible benefits for their dedication. Successfully completing missions and contributing to their house’s score became a fun and rewarding activity within the game.

What else accompanied MSI 2019?

MSI 2019 was accompanied by several other initiatives besides the Trials event. Riot Games released the Conqueror skin line, featuring Conqueror Alistar, to commemorate the tournament. A portion of the skin sales directly contributed to the MSI prize pool, supporting the competing teams.

• Conqueror Alistar skin released, linking in-game cosmetics to the event.
• Skin sales contributed to the overall MSI prize pool for participating teams.
• Team icons were made available for purchase, showing fan support.
• MSI-themed ward skins and other cosmetic items were offered.

These additional features enhanced the overall MSI experience by allowing fans to express their support for the event and their favorite teams. The Conqueror skin provided a visual reminder of the tournament, while the team icons offered a way to directly contribute to the teams’ success.

What about the MSI event itself?

The Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) is a major international League of Legends tournament that takes place annually between the Spring and Summer Splits. It brings together the top teams from each region around the world to compete for prestige, a hefty prize pool, and regional seeding advantages at the World Championship.

• International tournament held between Spring and Summer Splits.
• Features the top teams from each League of Legends region.
• Provides a preview of the competitive landscape heading into Worlds.
• Offers a chance for teams to prove their strength on the global stage.

MSI serves as a significant benchmark for the competitive season, allowing teams to gauge their performance against international rivals. It often reveals emerging trends in the meta and provides valuable experience for players competing at the highest level.

What were the preconceptions going into the tournament?

Prior to the start of MSI 2019, most analysts and fans considered Invictus Gaming (IG), the reigning World Champions from China, the overwhelming favorites to win the tournament. Many believed their dominant playstyle and experienced roster would be too much for other teams to handle. SK Telecom T1 (SKT), representing Korea, were also considered strong contenders due to their legendary status and star-studded lineup.

• Invictus Gaming (IG) was the heavy favorite due to their World Championship victory.
• SK Telecom T1 (SKT) were expected to be strong contenders representing Korea.
• Western teams, G2 Esports and Team Liquid, were seen as dark horses.
• Wildcard regions were generally expected to struggle against the major regions.

While G2 Esports from Europe and Team Liquid from North America were respected, they were largely viewed as underdogs facing an uphill battle against the established powerhouses from China and Korea. The wildcard regions were expected to struggle to compete with the stronger regions.

What actually happened?

MSI 2019 proved to be full of surprises and unexpected upsets. While Invictus Gaming dominated the group stage, their reign was cut short in the semifinals by Team Liquid, who pulled off a stunning victory. G2 Esports also exceeded expectations, defeating SK Telecom T1 in a thrilling five-game series to reach the finals.

• Team Liquid unexpectedly defeated Invictus Gaming in the semifinals.
• G2 Esports beat SK Telecom T1 in a close five-game series.
• G2 Esports ultimately won the tournament, defeating Team Liquid in the finals.
• The tournament challenged pre-existing notions about regional strength.

Ultimately, G2 Esports emerged victorious, defeating Team Liquid in the finals and claiming the MSI 2019 title. The tournament defied many pre-tournament predictions and showcased the evolving competitive landscape of League of Legends.

Final Thoughts

League of Legends Trials, alongside other event features like the Conqueror skin, enriched the MSI 2019 viewing experience. It gave players a way to actively participate in the tournament, express their allegiance, and earn exclusive rewards. The unexpected results of MSI 2019, coupled with the engaging in-game events, made it a memorable tournament for players and fans alike.

• Trials events enhanced player engagement with MSI.
• Cosmetic rewards provided incentive for participation.
• The tournament’s unpredictable outcome added to the excitement.
• Riot’s continued support ensures LoL remains popular.

Such concurrent events are always welcomed, giving a fresh and rewarding experience to the regular players. Riot’s constant support and dedication keep the LoL experience relevant and ever changing.