Arcane, the popular Netflix show inspired by the world and characters of League Of Legends, has finally returned to our screens. Season 2, which is releasing 3 episodes at a time, has already received rave reviews. The show’s beautiful visuals and compelling character driven story has gripped the world. And the best part is that you require no previous knowledge of LoL to enjoy Arcane. The story is perfectly self-contained.

But, if you are considering diving into the world of LoL, there are quite a few things you need to be aware of. The LoL franchise has grown massively over the last few years. With multiple titles under the LoL banner now. This guide will help you grapple with the different games and some of their basics.

League Of Legends

The original, and most popular game in Riot’s catalog. LoL is a Multiplayer Online Battle Arena. Or MOBA for short. The basic mode is a 5v5 where players take on the role of different champions each with their own unique abilities. You gain gold and experience from killing NPCS and other players. Exp levels up your abilities while gold is used to buy different items.

This is where you will find most of the characters from Arcane. Caitlin, Vi, Jinx, Jayce, Viktor. Riot has released Arcane themed skins for these characters too. Characters in LoL usually fall into a specific role. Attack Damage Carry, Support, Jungler, Top Laner, or Mid Laner. The map is split into three lanes, which regularly spawn waves of minions. The jungle, the space between the lanes, is filled with aggressive NPCs that can be farmed for gold and exp.

LoL is a very competitive game. With a heavy focus on Meta playing and optimal builds. It is an ideal game for anyone who loves ranked play. We recommend trying a few different characters to find a good mix of ones you like. Then look up optimal builds for them online. There are also hundreds of amazing LoL coaching services online that can help you rise up the ranks.

Team Fight Tactics

Team Fight Tactics, or TFT, is an auto battler set in the LoL universe. It doesn’t feature all of the champions that are present in LoL. But the roster is slowly expanding. A lot of the popular Arcane characters are in the game.

Each game of TFT sees players building up a team of different champions. Buying multiple of the same champion allows you to level them up. You then position each champion on the map and wait for the battle to start. Unlike LoL, where you directly control the champion, TFT automatically carries out the battles for you. So your tactical placing of your champions, as well as which champion combinations you use, is critically important.

TFT does feature a ranked system. But it is arguably harder to advance up than LoL, due to the automated functionality of the battles. The highest rank in TFT is challenger. This is the tier where most of the pros play. Like with LoL there are numerous coaching services that can help you advance up the ranks. I recommend getting coaching for challenger TFT even if you’re still in the lower ranks. The top level coaches will help you refine your playstyle and expand your understanding of the intricate complexities of the game.

Legends Of Runeterra

If you’re someone who adores their card games then this is the title for you. With similar playstyles to Heartstone and Magic The Gathering, Legends Of Runeterra is a card battler featuring a huge selection of the most popular LoL champions. But, unlike a lot of modern card games, LOR prioritizes skill over luck.

Every card has their own unique stats and abilities. And champion cards can be leveled up during a battle. But the region mechanic is what really sets the game apart from similar titles. Cards from similar regions sync up and provide better bonuses and effects. To win in LOR you need to carefully curate your deck. Finding powerful synergies and combinations that can outmatch your opponent.

LOR is unique in that it is the only game that allows players to use characters that aren’t mainline champions. Players can build decks filled with the denizens of the different regions of Runeterra.