
In LoL, off meta refers to the strategies, champions, or item builds that are very unpopular and not considered as the most effective. Players who play off-meta options often experiment with unconventional picks and ways to play the game.
What are Off-Meta Picks?
Off-meta players often choose champions that are not typically seen in their roles, and positions or they are not seen at all. For example, picking Ziggs can be seen as unconventional as he is quite unique with the pick rate of only 1.4% in Master+.
- Unconventional Picks: Off-meta players may play champions that are not typically seen in their respective roles or positions, such as taking Tristana as a jungler or Sion in the mid lane.
- Creative Itemization: Off-meta builds often contain unique item choices that are suit for specific playstyles or matchups.
- Innovative Strategies: Playing off-meta encourages creative approach to gameplay, because of what a player can catch his opponents off guard.
Why do players go off meta?
Meta is meta and fun is fun. Not every player can or wants to learn new champions that are currently in the meta, and for some players, it's just boring. There is nothing wrong with playing off-meta, as not everyone has to try hard or play the most effective tactics available. So here are some more reasons why people play off-meta:
- Personal Preference: Some players go towards off-meta picks due to their playstyle which may not fit with conventional meta picks. For example "River Ivern", "Jhin Mid", or "Tank Twitch" picks are so unique that you you wouldn't even consider them unless you knew that high-elo players are actually using them.
- Element of Surprise for Enemies: Off-meta picks can catch opponents off guard, providing players with an advantage. The element of surprise can disrupt the enemy's plans and lead to opportunities for skillful plays.
- Adaptation to Changes: Off-meta allows players to experiment with new things because we all like to have fun when playing. For some players, exploring alternative options is the definition of fun.
Why do some players avoid going off meta?
Players often avoid going offmeta in League of Legends due to several factors. The risk of underperforming with less optimized strategies, pressure from teammates who may react negatively, concerns about losing rank in competitive play, and lack of practice with unconventional approaches all contribute to this hesitation.
Additionally, fear of being reported for perceived trolling, the influence of professional play which typically adheres to meta strategies, and the game's balance which often favors meta choices can discourage experimentation. Many players also simply feel more comfortable and confident sticking to familiar, established meta playstyles. These combined factors lead many to stay within the boundaries of the current metagame, even if they might be curious about trying something new.
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