TL;DR
- Patch 12.2 removes problematic Hextech Augments including Thrill of the Hunt III
- Mid-set update targets overpowered and generic augments disrupting game balance
- Academy and Imperial traits removal creates space for new strategic options
- Augment system remains core feature despite specific removals for health improvements
- Players must adapt strategies as meta shifts with upcoming Neon Nights set

The upcoming Teamfight Tactics patch 12.2 introduces significant changes to the Hextech Augment system, targeting specific problematic options for removal. This mid-set refresh aims to address balance concerns while maintaining the core innovation that has defined the Gizmos and Gadgets experience.
With the mid-set transformation approaching, several Hextech Augments face elimination due to their disruptive impact on competitive integrity. While the augment mechanic itself has been widely praised by players, certain individual choices create unhealthy gameplay patterns that require intervention.
Strategic players should note that these removals follow established patterns from previous TFT sets where overpowered options are systematically addressed to preserve long-term engagement.
The mid-set adjustments for Gadgets and Gizmos target specific augment categories that have proven problematic. Recent TFT patch notes specifically highlighted Thrill of the Hunt III’s removal due to its excessive generic power that overshadowed more situational alternatives.
Following earlier modifications to Heart and Emblem Hextech Augments, the development team continues addressing balance outliers. The confirmed departure of Academy and Imperial traits signals broader systemic changes, preparing players for significant augment availability reductions when Neon Nights launches.
Advanced players should monitor augments like Rich Get Richer and Broken Stopwatch, which exhibit similar problematic characteristics and may face future removal. Understanding why certain augments become problematic helps players anticipate future balance changes and adapt their playstyles accordingly.
Hextech Augments have revolutionized TFT gameplay, with both developers and community agreeing that branching decision points dramatically enhance replay value and enjoyment. Gizmos and Gadgets represents Teamfight Tactics’ most successful set to date, and these targeted removals demonstrate commitment to preventing gameplay stagnation.
Competitive players must now reconsider augment selection strategies, focusing on synergistic options rather than generically powerful choices. The removal of dominant augments opens strategic diversity, encouraging experimentation with previously overlooked combinations that may become meta-defining in the new environment.
Common mistakes include over-relying on soon-to-be-removed augments or failing to develop backup strategies. Successful adaptation requires understanding the underlying design principles guiding these changes rather than simply memorizing current strong options.
The officially announced Teamfight Tactics development schedule confirms the mid-set update arriving mid-February, with the complete new set following in spring. During this transition period, additional augment removals are expected, particularly targeting standouts exhibiting similar balance problems to those already addressed.
While the specific Hextech Augments branding may evolve, the core mechanic of augment-style decision points appears positioned as a permanent feature moving forward. This evolution mirrors how successful mechanics from previous sets have become evergreen components of the TFT experience.
Players looking to maximize their performance should study our Complete Guide for fundamental strategies that remain relevant across meta shifts. Understanding core gameplay principles provides stability when specific mechanics undergo changes.
Action Checklist
- Review current augment win rates and identify dependency risks
- Practice with soon-to-be-removed augments disabled
- Explore new trait combinations in preparation for Academy/Imperial removal
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