Riot’s Shocking Snub: Beloved LoL Champ Left in the Dark Ages

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In the new season of League of Legends, set within the formidable region of Noxus, players can expect a refreshed gaming environment and character skins that align with its fierce culture. Additionally, cinematic storylines delve deeper into the events portrayed in Arcane, focusing on characters such as Mel Medarda, LeBlanc, and others who offer insights into present-day Noxus happenings. The game will continue to explore other regions next, with the upcoming season scheduled to unfold in Ionia.

Among the significant modifications that League of Legends introduced during the Noxus season, one noteworthy update was given to LeBlanc, known as a Visual and Gameplay Update (VGU). This revamp transformed her standard skin to resemble her appearance in the cinematics related to Arcane. Alongside the Black Rose leader, the game also presented a fresh look for Vladimir, another Noxian champion and LeBlanc’s associate, which fans anticipated would receive a VGU as well. However, with League of Legends’ first season drawing to a close, it appears that Vladimir’s VGU may be postponed for the time being.

League of Legends’ Vladimir Deserves a Redesign After More Than a Decade

Vladimir is a sorcerer warrior who first appeared in “League of Legends” as early as 2010. In the storyline, he is recognized as a hemomancer, consuming human blood, and has cultivated a following of devoted disciples. His impact on Noxian politics dates back to the empire’s founding days. Vladimir joined forces with LeBlanc and the Black Rose during Mordekaiser’s rule of darkness, forming an alliance to defeat him. After countless years, they have remained united in their mission to keep Mordekaiser from returning and secretly manipulating Noxus from behind the scenes.

Multiple individuals within the community have playfully expressed that Vladimir’s in-game design appears outdated compared to other older League of Legends characters who have undergone Visual and Gameplay Updates (VGUs) recently. Despite having two updates since his initial release, the only visual modification made to him was done as far back as 2014, a significant period ago. The unveiling of LeBlanc’s new look in Noxus cinematics had sparked expectations for Vladimir to receive a similar VGU during League of Legends Season 1. However, with the conclusion of the Noxus season and the anticipated start of Season 2 in Ionia on April 30, it seems that Vladimir’s VGU might have to be postponed.

  • Last visual update: 2014
  • Last gameplay update: 2016

Fans of League of Legends might think they’re being teased by the new look of Vladimir in the Noxus cinematics, but it’s not certain that his Visual Update Guidelines (VGU) is imminent from Riot Games. Although Riot usually releases at least one VGU per season, for Noxus, it seems only LeBlanc will be getting an update. However, there’s a chance Riot might surprise us all with a sudden VGU release before Season 2 ends this month.

There’s Already an Updated Vladimir Design Right in Front of League of Legends Fans

It’s worth noting that when Vladimir debuted as a playable mage in League of Legends: Wild Rift in 2023, he received an upgraded design. The mobile version of the MOBA has earned acclaim for its champion designs, which are frequently more detailed than their original counterparts. Vladimir is no exception, as his features are now more distinct compared to his older model in League of Legends.

Though Vladimir may not currently be included in Riot Games’ Visual Update (VGU) schedule for League of Legends, it’s worth noting that they already have the necessary assets to develop him. However, a potential hurdle could arise when adapting the Wild Rift model to the regular League of Legends version, which might require substantial time and resources. Regardless, there’s a possibility that Vladimir’s VGU is on the horizon, with Riot Games perhaps prioritizing champion balance within League of Legends for this year instead.

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2025-04-13 03:34