The season is coming to an end. But we're getting a new champion.
The world of League of Legends never sleeps: the new season is expected to start in January. To conclude the "Trials of Twilight" story, we are getting a new champion: Zaahen, one of the Darkin and fresh blood in the top lane.
His Lore
Those interested in its history can watch the videos that were repeatedly shown in the client throughout the season, or alternatively, a short "The story so far" video, also from Riot itself, of course.
The story is about Xin Zhao, who traveled to his homeland of Ionia to find answers, as well as Yunara, LeBlanc, and of course Atakhan. The only chance to save the world? A celebrated hero who once defended Ionia against the Darkin. After the battle, he felt his own humanity fading away, and his plea was granted: to be banished into a weapon, like Aatrox, Varus, Naafiri, and Rhast. But after LeBlanc releases Atakhan once again for her own interests, Xin Zhao is faced with a decision that demands a lot from him. Click here to see the conclusion of the story!
Abilities
Veterans among you will remember a certain champion, so pay attention!
Passive - Cultivation of War
Zaahen’s attacks and abilities against enemy champions grant him stacks of Determination, gaining bonus Attack Damage per stack. When filled with Determination, Zaahen gains increased Attack Damage and can revive.
Q - The Darkin Glaive
Zaahen slashes twice on his next attack, dealing bonus damage and healing himself. Zaahen can recast this ability to have his next attack deal bonus damage and knock up his target.
W - Dreaded Return
Zaahen stabs in a direction, damaging enemies hit and pulling them towards him.
E - Aureate Rush
Zaahen dashes to a location and slices around himself.
R - Grim Deliverance
Zaahen rises, then stabs downward, damaging enemies and healing for a portion of the damage dealt.
Players' Opinions
Do you remember? Players are enthusiastic about Zaahen because he reminds them of Aatrox before his rework. The resurrection is particularly striking, and players also like the design. Since Zaahen apparently came from Shurima, which many lore enthusiasts see as an ancient Egypt, people are delighted with how well Zaahen is portrayed in this regard.
Personally, I'm looking forward to the new champion – even though top isn't my role. Just recently, I was raving about Aatrox's old kit (out of nostalgia, of course). I like that Riot is bringing back the revive mechanic without the other abilities having long texts and complicated mechanics.
What do you think? Is the new Toplaner something for you?