In 2023, Riot phased out Summoner Names in favor of more flexible and easily changeable Riot IDs. This alteration brought about numerous questions and clarifications, particularly concerning the distinction between in-game names and taglines, the frequency of username changes, and the associated costs. This comprehensive guide will delve into these aspects, providing detailed information to ensure players are well-informed about the new username update system.
The League of Legends username update in November 2023 marks a pivotal shift in how players manage their identities within the game. Prior to this update, usernames were often synonymous with summoner names, which appeared in-game and were used for friend requests, matchmaking, and leaderboard tracking. These could not be easily changed. The November 2023 update introduces a clearer separation between usernames (used for logging into the Riot Games system) and summoner names (the in-game display names).
This update consists of a transition to Riot IDs, a descriptor that combines a regular username (Game Name) with a second identifier (Tagline), which differentiates accounts with the same name from different regions or games, with the format of Riot Name#Tagline (Example: RickHeim#NA1 for a LoL NA account.
Riot Games initiated this change to enhance account security, streamline account management across multiple games (ever since Riot Game became Riot Games with the release of Valorant, Teamfight Tactics, and Legends of Runeterra), and reduce confusion caused by having multiple aliases within the Riot ecosystem. This update aligns with Riot's broader efforts to improve player experience and account integrity.
It’s important to remember that your in-game name, often referred to as a summoner name in League of Legends, is the name displayed to other players during matches, in chat, and on leaderboards. It is completely separate from the username you use to log into the Riot Games Launcher, which cannot be changed, although it’s not visible to the public.
Understanding the difference between an in-game name (summoner name) and a tagline is crucial in navigating the new system. Each Riot ID is tied to a single email and username, and changing it will change how you appear in-game everywhere. If you have multiple accounts and decide you want to change your Riot ID, make sure you're on the correct account first.
There are a few special rules governing what you can and cannot include in your Riot ID, which is divided into two parts. For this example, if your Riot ID is "EarlGreyTeemo#sip," then your Game Name is "EarlGreyTeemo," and your tagline is "#sip".
Game Names must be 3–16 alphanumeric characters long and cannot be offensive or inappropriate.
Finally, your Game Name does not have to be unique. So long as your Riot ID as a whole isn't taken, you can have any Game Name you like.
The tagline, on the other hand, is a newer concept introduced by Riot Games. A Tagline is a unique identifier paired with a summoner name to ensure global uniqueness. This combination ensures that while players can choose common names, each player's identity remains distinct. This also allows for two LoL players in the same region to share the same username, given that their taglines are different. For more information, refer to our comprehensive Taglines article.
Moreover, Riot Games a standalone FAQ article you can check out!
No, your login credentials are separate from your Riot ID. Your Riot ID or username is the one displayed to other users, and can be changed. Your login name cannot be changed and is not visible to any other users.
Changing your username is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Every player will receives free name change every 365 days. If players want to change their names more often than that, there will be a fee attached, similar to the previous Summoner Name system. Moreover, all players got a free name change following the update, on top of their yearly free name change.
If players want to purchase an additional name change you will be able to do so on the accounts page and it will cost the equivalent of approximately 1300 RP/$10 USD in in-game currency. Prices can fluctuate based on local currency and promotions. Occasionally, Riot Games offers free username changes as part of promotional events or to address widespread issues such as name conflicts arising from major updates. During these periods, players can update their usernames without spending RP. These events are usually well-publicized within the game's client and on Riot's official social media channels.
The only currently supported in-game currencies are Riot Points and Legends of Runeterra Coins. Riot Games is currently working on pathing that will also allow for name changes to be purchased using VALORANT Points, Wild Rift Cores, and TFT Coins in the future.