The wait is finally over! Fans of Netflix’s acclaimed animated series Arcane can rejoice as Ambessa Medarda, the cunning and ruthless matriarch of the Noxian Merdarda family, is making her grand entrance into the world of League of Legends. Riot Games has announced that Ambessa will be introduced as a brand-new champion in Patch 14.22, bringing a fresh dose of Noxian might to the Summoner’s Rift.
Ambessa’s arrival is a testament to the impact of Arcane on the League of Legends universe. Her captivating portrayal in the show, coupled with her unwavering ambition for vengeance, has solidified her as a compelling character that deserves a place within the game itself. Game designer Max Perlman shared that the show provided the team with a solid foundation to craft Ambessa’s unique kit, ensuring she remains true to her character while offering a distinct gameplay experience.
Prepared to dominate the top lane, Ambessa is designed as a champion that thrives in 1v1 encounters. Her kit reflects her strategic mind and ruthlessness, empowering her to control the battlefield with calculated aggression. Her passive ability, Drakehound’s Step, allows her to dash after casting an ability, granting her a potent boost in range, damage, and attack speed while replenishing her energy. This swiftness and amplified power make her a force to be reckoned with in close-quarters combat.
Ambessa’s Q ability, Cunning Sweep, is a swift strike that unleashes blades in front of her, dealing damage to any unfortunate enemies caught in its path. Should she hit an enemy with this initial strike, it evolves into Sundering Slam, a devastating follow-up that deals amplified damage to the primary target while creating a line of damage, ensuring maximum impact. Her W ability, Repudiation, provides her with a shield as she slams into the ground, dealing damage to surrounding foes, further solidifying her resilience against enemy aggression.
Ambessa’s E ability, Lacerate, deals damage around her, and synergizes perfectly with Drakehound’s Step, allowing her to unleash two strikes in quick succession, maximizing her damage output and making her a formidable threat in close combat. Her ultimate ability, Public Execution, is a decisive strike that teleports her directly to the farthest enemy champion along a chosen line. Upon arrival, she suppresses, stuns, and deals damage to the targeted champion, turning the tide of battle in a single devastating move.
Ambessa’s gameplay caters to aggressive players who relish the thrill of direct confrontation, making her a perfect choice for those seeking to dominate the top lane. Her ability kit is also a welcoming entry point for newer players who have been drawn to the world of League of Legends through Arcane, offering a satisfying blend of strategic depth and direct action.
Ambessa’s arrival isn’t the only way Arcane is making its presence felt within the League of Legends universe. The popular All Random, All Mid game mode will be getting a brand-new map inspired by the iconic Bridge of Progress, further immersing players in the world of Arcane. This map update, along with Ambessa’s debut, will be available to players between the launch of Patch 14.22 and January 8, 2025, providing a thrilling extended celebration of the show’s return.
The second season of Arcane will be released across three acts: November 9, November 16, and November 23. Get ready to dive back into the world of Piltover and Zaun, witness the continuation of Vi and Powder’s journey, and prepare to be captivated by the rise of Ambessa Medarda, the new champion of League of Legends.