League of Legends is shaking up one of its core mechanics by testing WASD movement as an alternative to the traditional mouse point-and-click controls for controlling champions.
League’s new movement system aims to make movement feel more intuitive for both new and returning players. If players respond well to the change and it proves successful on the PBE, WASD movement will roll out to non-Ranked queues first before eventually making its way into ranked play. This move will make it one of the most significant control changes in the game’s history, fundamentally changing the way players enjoy the title.
The developer has confirmed that both WASD and traditional point-and-click controls will remain available for everyone. However, each will be closely monitored to ensure neither offers a competitive advantage, allowing players to choose the control style that best suits their comfort and playstyle.
From an esports perspective, players should stick to their traditional mouse point-and-click controls, so don’t expect massive changes there. Either way, League players already use a lot of buttons—from abilities and summoner spells to camera controls for checking on teammates—so this could feel like a natural extension of the game’s mechanics rather than a drastic overhaul.
It would also be interesting to see how champions like Kalista play while using the WASD controls because she requires the player to use the mouse to dash a small distance after her auto attacks, so there might be a skill curve to learning the new controls. Many mechanical players are known for their rapid reflex clicks to dodge enemies’ skillshots, so it would be interesting if WASD makes it easier or harder.
While it’s too early to tell how the change will affect the competitive meta, the test signals Riot’s rare willingness to experiment with fundamental gameplay elements to bring new players, who are already comfortable with the WASD controls. For veterans, it offers a fresh way to experience the Summoner’s Rift with less mouse and more button smashing.
More details on the developer’s rollout of WASD controls can be found in a newly released blog.
