How Many League of Legends Champions Are There A Complete 2024 Guide

Introduction
Since its 2009 debut, League of Legends (LoL) has captivated millions with its strategic gameplay and dynamic champion roster. A common question among new and veteran players alike is: “How many League of Legends champions are there?” As of 2024, LoL boasts 166 unique champions, each with distinct abilities, lore, and playstyles. In this guide, we’ll break down the current count, explore the history of champion releases, and explain why this ever-expanding roster is vital to the game’s success.

Current Number of League of Legends Champions

Riot Games consistently expands LoL’s universe, introducing new champions to keep gameplay fresh. As of July 2024, there are 166 champions in the game. This number increases by 4–6 champions annually, with Riot prioritizing quality and diversity over quantity.

To view the full list, visit the, where you can filter characters by role, difficulty, or release date.

The Evolution of LoL’s Champion Roster

2009–2011: The Foundation

At launch, LoL featured 40 champions, including iconic picks like Annie, Ashe, and Ryze. These early designs established core gameplay roles (e.g., tanks, mages, assassins) and laid the groundwork for future expansions.

2012–2016: Rapid Growth

Riot adopted an aggressive release schedule, adding 10–15 champions yearly. By 2016, the roster surpassed 130 champions. Memorable additions like Thresh (2013) and Yasuo (2013) became fan favorites, showcasing Riot’s focus on innovative mechanics.

2017–Present: Strategic Releases

To avoid overwhelming players, Riot slowed releases to 5–6 champions per year, focusing on:

• Unique gameplay: Champions like Aphelios (2019) with modular weapons.

• Lore integration: Characters tied to major storylines (e.g., Sett in Ionia’s criminal underworld).

• Role diversity: Recent additions like Milio (2023), an enchanter support, fill niche team comp needs.

Roles and Classes: Breaking Down the Roster

LoL champions are categorized by roles (in-game positions) and classes (combat styles). Understanding these helps players master team synergies.

Primary Roles

1. Top Lane: Tanks and bruisers like Ornn and Darius.

2. Jungle: High-mobility picks like Lee Sin and Kayn.

3. Mid Lane: Mages and assassins such as Zed and Syndra.

4. Bot Lane (ADC): Ranged carries like Jinx and Kai’Sa.

5. Support: Utility champions like Thresh and Lulu.

Champion Classes

• Marksman: Ranged damage dealers (e.g., Caitlyn).

• Mage: Ability-power bursters (e.g., Lux).

• Assassin: High-damage, high-mobility killers (e.g., Akali).

• Tank: Damage-absorbing frontliners (e.g., Leona).

• Fighter: Hybrid damage/tank “bruisers” (e.g., Garen).

• Support: Healers and crowd-control specialists (e.g., Soraka).

Why Champion Diversity Matters

A vast champion pool is central to LoL’s longevity. Here’s why:

1. Meta Shifts: New champions (or reworks) shake up the competitive meta. For example, Viego (2021) introduced possession mechanics, altering teamfight dynamics.

2. Player Preferences: With 166 options, players find champions that match their style, whether they prefer micro-intensive ADCs or macro-oriented supports.

3. Esports Appeal: A deep roster ensures pro matches stay unpredictable and exciting.

Upcoming Champions: What’s Next?

Riot teases new champions via social media and in-game events. Recent leaks suggest a void-based mage and a shapeshifting top-laner are in development. The studio also prioritizes reworking older champions (e.g., Udyr’s 2022 visual update) to modernize their kits and visuals.

Tips for New Players: Navigating 166 Champions

1. Start Simple: Learn easy-to-master champs like Garen or Miss Fortune before tackling complex picks like Azir.

2. Free Rotation: Test weekly free champions to how many league of legends champions discover your playstyle.

Conclusion
With 166 champions and counting, League of Legends offers unparalleled strategic depth. Whether you’re drawn to high-octane assassins or methodical strategists, there’s a champion for everyone. As Riot Games continues to innovate, the roster will only grow richer—keeping LoL at the forefront of competitive gaming for years to come.