On November 5th, classes in Mapo High school in Seoul, South Korea, went a bit differently. Students lined up outside in the courtyard to cheer on two of their alumni, “Faker” Lee Sang-hyeok and “Deft” Kim Hyuk-kyu facing off in the 2022 League of Legends World Championships. 

Meanwhile, on the other side of the globe, thousands of people sat in the Chase Center watching the breathtaking opening ceremony put on by Lil Nas X, Jackson Wang, and Edda Hayes. Illuminating the stage with stunning visuals and holographic animations, this championship and performance have become a yearly tradition, garnering millions of views across the globe with past performers such as Imagine Dragons, (G)I-DLE, TWICE, and Madison Beer.

Founded in the September of 2006, Riot Games has continued to grow since then, largely profiting off their massively successful computer video game League of Legends where two teams of five players compete in an arena known as the “Rift” to destroy their opponent base known as the “nexus”. Whichever team destroys the opposing team’s “nexus” first wins the game. Unlike other games which may become repetitive and inaccessible, League of Legends is one of the first games that popularized the “free-to-play” model that we have today. Moreover, the game is ever evolving, with new champions (characters) and consistent development over the decade.

League of Legends’ electronic sports scene includes 12 leagues across the world representing regions like Western Europe, North America, Korea, Thailand, and China. In a yearly event, the best teams from each League come together to face off for the prestigious title of World Champions, garnering the attention of most video game fanatics. Yet one region, in particular, bears a significant influence on the game. Asian teams have historically held some of the best performances at Worlds, with an Asian team winning the championship title consecutively for the last 11 years.

The success that Asian teams have found at worlds, combined with a ~100 million Asian player base has created a unique cultural impact. Professional players are treated as stars and idols, appearing on game shows, ice cream brands, and fashion lines. Beyond just popular culture, esports has even beard a significant influence in legislation in recent years. On December 2nd, 2020, South Korea’s government passed a bill delaying the mandatory army service of male citizens to those dubbed “national treasures’ ‘, figures who have elevated South Korea’s reputation and contributed to Korean culture. These people include members of the world-famous kpop band, BTS, and League of Legends’ best player, Faker.

Ultimately, winning a game of  League of Legends is a team effort. With an emphasis on teamwork and coordination, the game serves as a platform for Asian players and beyond to connect with one another. Through its success, League of Legends has and continues to form global communities and foster lasting connections.