Riot responds to 2023 cinematics disappointment

For months, fans have speculated that Riot Games is changing its focus from League of Legends to VALORANT. After a long period of speculation, the developer welcomed the new Season 2023 with a series of changes and a video titled “The Infinity Threshold.” This video has not satisfied players, and complaints are piling on social networks. 

Following the backlash, Riot Games addressed the problems that arose while creating the opening cinematic, acknowledging the trailer “missed the mark.”

A cinematic that is not what was expected

As you can see by watching the “Threshold of Infinity” cinematic, Riot Games has decided to introduce LoL Season 2023 with a more “modest” and quiet video than usual.

Created in collaboration with Illusorium studio, this year’s cinematic is just two minutes long. You can hear inspiring, yet familiar words recited by a voice while the camera flies over the mythical Summoner’s Rift scenarios. The voice of Powder (young Jinx) from Arcane recites individual quotes from multiple champions, composed together as a poem.

At the same time, some champion voices can be heard in the background, but there is no action per se; no characters appear on the screen, and no major combat or narrative events expand the lore of the game’s universe.

In addition, the cinematic references to notable esports moments via audio clips from League casters, however, fans were hoping for more flavor than that.

Clearly, the video did not live up to what is expected from Riot Games, as in just one day since its publication, thousands of comments on a general feeling of disappointment from fans have accumulated on socials. Many repeat adjectives such as “boring” or “lazy”, and some even think it’s a joke. They hope that real cinematics will come soon.

 

Riot Games’ stance

In the face of emerging criticism, Riot acknowledged that some unprecedented circumstances did not make the alternative approach for this season’s video come through this year. Unfortunately, no more details have been provided.

Riot Games’ announcement read:

“Brink of Infinity missed the mark for the action-packed, champion-led trailer you expected and has led to further speculation about our investment in League.”

The company also explained that due to their lack of communication with fans, there was a sense of loss of interest from players. However, Riot hinted that there is still a lot to look forward to in League of Legends, and many plans will be revealed soon.

Header: Riot Games