League of Legends: How Does Split Point System Work?

League of Legends, one of the most popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games, has recently introduced the Split Point system to its ranked matchmaking. This system aims to incentivize players based on the time they invest in the competitive mode, making the ranked experience more rewarding and engaging. In this guide, we will explore what Split Points are in League of Legends and how they function within the game’s ranked seasons.

What are Split Points?

Split Points in League of Legends is an incentive system that allows players to maximize their ranked matches’ value, regardless of the match outcome. These points are awarded after each game, and by accumulating a certain number of Split Points by the end of the season, players become eligible to receive Victorious skins as rewards.

The Split Point System was introduced to create a more dynamic and competitive environment in professional League of Legends. It divides the competitive season into multiple splits, typically Spring and Summer, allowing teams to showcase their skills and compete for coveted playoff spots and championship titles.

How Does Split Point System Work?

Each split consists of a regular season and a postseason. The regular season is divided into weeks, during which teams compete in a series of matches against each other. These matches usually follow a best-of-one format, although some leagues, such as the League of Legends Championship Series (LCS) in North America, have switched to a best-of-three format for increased competitiveness.

Throughout the regular season, teams earn Split Points based on their performance in matches. The exact point system may vary between leagues, but it generally follows a similar structure. Typically, teams receive a set number of points for winning a match, with additional points awarded based on their placement in the standings at the end of the regular season. The top teams with the highest Split Point totals secure playoff berths, while others may have to face relegation or participate in a separate tournament for additional rewards or qualification opportunities.

The Split Points obtained during the regular season have significant implications for a team’s playoff prospects. Higher point totals often result in advantageous seeding in the postseason, granting teams a better chance to advance further in the tournament. Additionally, Split Points serve as a tiebreaker mechanism when multiple teams have the same win-loss record at the end of the regular season.

The playoff stage of the split is where the most intense competition occurs. Teams battle it out in a bracket-style tournament, with higher-seeded teams typically enjoying certain benefits, such as side selection or the ability to choose their opponents. 

The ultimate goal is to advance through the playoffs and claim the split championship. The top teams in each region’s playoffs often qualify for international events, such as the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) or the prestigious League of Legends World Championship (Worlds), where they compete against the best teams from other regions.

How to earn Split Points?

To earn Split Points, players need to participate in Ranked Solo/Duo or Ranked Flex matches during the active Ranked Season Split. Importantly, Split Points are earned after every game, regardless of whether the player wins or loses. Winning a match grants 10 Split Points, while losing still rewards players with 6 Split Points. This system encourages players to engage in competitive matches without excessive concern about the outcome, fostering a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

How to unlock Victorious Skins?

Victorious skins can be unlocked using Split Points. The number of Split Points required to unlock these skins varies based on the player’s rank at the end of the Split. Players in Iron, Bronze, or Silver ranks will need to accumulate 1,600 Split Points to unlock the respective Split’s Victorious skin. On the other hand, players in Gold or higher ranks will only need 800 Split Points to obtain the skin.

In addition to the Split Points requirement, players must meet another criterion to unlock the Victorious Skin: having an Honor Level of two or higher. This means that maintaining positive in-game behavior and receiving honors from teammates are essential for eligibility.

Pre-Season and Split Points:

During the pre-season period, which occurs between the end of one season and the start of the next, ranked matches do not contribute to Skill Points progression. Both the player’s rank and their total acquired Split Points are reset when a new season begins. This reset allows players to start fresh and pursue the new Victorious Skin offered in the upcoming Split.

The Split Point system in League of Legends’ ranked mode has brought a refreshing approach to incentivize players and enhance their ranked experience. By earning Split Points, players can unlock exclusive Victorious skins based on their rank and accumulate rewards throughout the season. 

This system encourages players to participate in ranked matches without excessive pressure to win, promoting a more relaxed and enjoyable competitive environment. As players progress and accumulate Split Points, they can strive to achieve higher ranks and unlock prestigious rewards in League of Legends.