LoL Patch 25.9 Preview: Kalista Nerf, Leona Buff, System Changes
League of Legends is heating up this season with fresh updates, and Patch 25.9 is set to shake up the meta once again. With a focus on buffing underused Champions, nerfing dominant picks like Kalista, and tweaking several key systems, this patch could seriously impact how players climb the ranked ladder. Let’s dive into the highlights of what to expect in this update and how it could affect your next push for a higher rank.
How Patch 25.9 Could Shift the League of Legends Meta
According to Riot’s Lead Gameplay Designer, Matt “RiotPhroxzon” Leung-Harrison, Patch 25.9 is all about refreshing the bot and top lane dynamics. While the final patch notes aren’t out yet, his early preview gives us a solid glimpse into Riot’s goals for Season 2.
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Both Gwen and Naafiri, who recently received major kit reworks, are getting adjustments again. Gwen continues to dominate even after previous nerfs, so Patch 25.9 will hit her hard with reductions to monster damage, armor growth, and snip damage. Meanwhile, Naafiri will see a slight early-game nerf with a higher W cooldown, but nothing too drastic. This patch isn’t just about nerfs, though. Several underrepresented Champions are getting buffed to boost their relevance in ranked matches. |
If you’re looking to shake up your champion pool and gain an edge in League of Legends, now’s the perfect time to explore some new picks.
Champion Buffs and Nerfs in Patch 25.9
Buffs:
- Annie
- Ashe
- K’Sante
- Leona
- Morgana
- Orianna
- Shen
Players looking to improve their performance might want to keep an eye on Leona and Morgana. With their upcoming buffs, both supports are likely to see a lot more play, especially in competitive team environments. Orianna, a reliable mid-lane choice, is also getting a welcome boost, making her a strong candidate for anyone wanting to climb the LoL ranks faster.
Nerfs:
- Gwen
- Kalista
- Naafiri
- Yorick
On the flip side, Kalista mains will have to adapt. Riot is delivering a significant nerf to Kalista’s dominance in the bot lane, aiming to balance out her oppressive early-game power. Gwen and Yorick will also feel the heat, so if you rely on them to carry your games, you might want to reconsider your strategy.
Item and System Updates You Need to Know
Patch 25.9 isn’t just changing Champions—it’s also making key updates to items and summoner spells. Rod of Ages is receiving a nerf because it currently provides too much power without enough immediate downside. If you depend on scaling items to carry games, you’ll need to rethink your builds after this update.
Ignite is getting a buff, giving it a much-needed edge over Teleport. With a stronger Ignite, aggressive players may find it easier to secure kills early and snowball their lane, an important detail if you're looking to boost your rank fast in League of Legends. The Feats of Strength Boots upgrade path is also being adjusted. Tier 2 boots will be slightly weaker, but Tier 3 upgrades will be much stronger, rewarding players who survive the early game. |
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Riot is also tweaking Biscuits to make them less influential in fights, aiming for more balanced lane phases without easy sustain advantages.
When Will League of Legends Patch 25.9 Release?
Patch 25.9 is scheduled to go live on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. While exact times haven’t been confirmed, updates usually happen during the early morning Pacific Time hours. Keep in mind, patch dates can sometimes shift if Riot encounters any last-minute issues.
If you're planning a serious rank push, it’s smart to prepare for the patch ahead of time. Knowing which Champions and systems are changing can give you a huge boost in early post-patch games, where adapting fast often means racking up easy wins.
League of Legends Patch 25.9 is shaping up to be a pivotal update, particularly for bot and top lane players. With major Champion buffs and nerfs, as well as important system tweaks, now is the time to refine your pool, rethink your strategies, and plan your next moves carefully.
Whether you’re aiming for a better rank or just want to dominate the new meta, staying ahead of these changes will give you the best shot at success. And if you're looking for an extra edge, professional LoL boosting services can help you maximize your climb while you adapt to the new meta.
Stay sharp, stay flexible, and get ready to take advantage of everything Patch 25.9 has to offer!
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