League of Legends Classic is coming to an end in January 2027, just months after its launch. Riot Games says most players have returned to the main game, but the developer hasn't completely given up on the idea of bringing Classic back.
For players who wanted to experience an older version of League of Legends, the shutdown is disappointing news. However, Riot is already considering whether a future version could work better as a limited-time event, potentially with changes based on what the team has learned from this release.
League of Legends Classic is already winding down
Riot's decision means the current version of League of Legends Classic has only a short time left. The developer says player numbers have declined as most people have returned to other parts of League of Legends.
The experience will also become more restricted before the shutdown. Starting with patch 26.21, players in Japan and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) will only be able to play custom matches. Other regions will have limited queue hours, making it harder to jump into a regular game whenever you want.
Riot will continue releasing new Champions before Classic closes. However, these remaining updates won't change the overall outcome: the current version is still scheduled to shut down in January 2027.
What happens to League of Legends Classic purchases?
The shutdown also affects players who spent money on content specifically made for Classic. Riot has announced refunds for content that will no longer be usable once the mode closes.
There's also a change to the Act II Classic Battle Pass, which will have a single free track. These adjustments give players some compensation and a way to keep progressing while the mode remains available.
If you've invested time or money in Classic, it's worth checking Riot's official announcement for the details that apply to your content and region.
Could League of Legends Classic return?
The shutdown doesn't necessarily mean Riot is finished with the concept. The team is considering whether Classic could return as a limited-time event rather than a permanent mode.
That approach could give players another chance to revisit the older League of Legends experience without requiring Riot to maintain it permanently. The developer has not confirmed a return date, however, and there are no guarantees that a future version will happen.
For now, January 2027 marks the end of the current version. Whether Riot can turn the experience into something players want to revisit remains an open question.
Watch the League of Legends Classic trailer
Players can revisit the original announcement through the official League of Legends website.
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