League of Legends Patch 25.12 Full Preview
This update will serve as a base before Patch 25.13 for MSI and includes targeted balance changes without radical shifts in the meta. The developers have nerfed Gwen, Rumble, and other dominant champions, buffed Jax, Lee Sin, and AP builds, and reworked Vi and Rammus to increase their versatility. The patch focuses on light adjustments to the current meta with an eye toward upcoming tournaments.
Top Lane
Gwen and Rumble lose some of their strength to make room for other champions in the top lane. Riot is also refining previously unsuccessful buffs to Aatrox and Garen , strengthening them through AD builds. Jax receives a minor buff, and Mordekaiser compensates for his nerfs with improvements through the Liandry’s Anguish item.
Jungle
Lee Sin is buffed as a team support champion — his buffs aim to enhance allies in fights. Vi, who holds a high priority on the pro scene, has been nerfed. Rammus receives changes aimed at reducing his dependency on armor and increasing his versatility. Nidalee also gets buffs, as she has been weak both in SoloQ and tournaments.
Bot
Aphelios receives buffs aimed at strengthening his early game, helping him better capitalize on safe laning phases while retaining his high-output, low-durability identity. Zeri gets improvements focused on her teamfighting capabilities — the most impactful and accessible aspect of her kit for average players. Samira gains mobility and damage boosts to help her re-enter the meta after struggling post-Shieldbow nerf, especially around her first item spike. Kalista is nerfed to make her more vulnerable during early trades and force more careful all-in decisions. Senna’s previous AD buffs are being scaled back after pushing her slightly over the edge.
Support
Bard is buffed in matchups that allow him to roam freely, like against Braum or Rakan, instead of increasing his durability to survive hard engages. This approach aims for more sustainable play patterns. Neeko’s dominance as a support is being addressed by reducing her early Q damage while preserving her identity as a tricky, vision-controlling utility pick through her W.
The developers emphasize that Patch 25.12 is not intended to radically change the meta, as most regions will not be playing on this version. Its purpose is precise balancing and preparation for Patch 25.13, which will be the MSI patch. Special attention is given to strategic roles and champion uniqueness in team play.
