The League of Legends Championship Series (LCS) is set to undergo significant changes for the 2024 Summer Split, with the reintroduction of the best-of-3 series and a revamped playoff format that promises to enhance the competitive experience for teams and fans alike.
Best-of-3 Series Makes a Comeback
In a move that has been long-awaited by many in the League of Legends community, the LCS will be reinstating the best-of-3 series format for the regular season.
This change is expected to provide a more robust and competitive environment, allowing teams to showcase their adaptability and strategic depth over a series of games, rather than the single-game matches that have been the norm in recent years.
A New Playoff Experience
The LCS is not only changing the regular season format but is also revamping the playoff structure. Starting in the 2024 Summer Split, every team that qualifies for the playoffs will begin in the winners’ bracket. This setup is designed to offer all teams a fair shot at the title and the opportunity to make a deep run in the tournament.
Additionally, a gauntlet-style lower bracket will be introduced, creating the potential for “Cinderella runs” where teams can fight their way back from early losses to contend for the championship. This double-elimination approach ensures that a single defeat won’t spell the end of a team’s championship aspirations, adding an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability to the playoff journey.
Implications for Worlds 2024
The stakes for the LCS teams are higher than ever, with three coveted spots at the League of Legends World Championship (Worlds) 2024 on the line.
The new format is expected to better prepare North American teams for the international stage by providing more high-pressure situations throughout the season.
