TL;DR
- Three distinct rework types: VGUs (full overhaul), CGUs (ability-only), and Midscopes (targeted changes)
- Skarner represents the only 2023 Visual Gameplay Update with complete redesign
- Yuumi’s rework targets pro-play dominance while maintaining attachment identity
- Multiple Midscope Updates refresh champions like Jax, Rell, and Neeko
- Reworks aim to balance champion viability across all skill levels

League of Legends maintains its competitive edge through systematic champion modernization, with 2023 representing a pivotal year for rework initiatives. The evolution from simple number tweaks to comprehensive identity overhauls reflects Riot’s commitment to keeping gameplay fresh and balanced.
Champion reworks have transformed from occasional updates to a structured system with clear classification criteria. This systematic approach ensures each champion receives the appropriate level of attention based on their specific needs and community feedback.
Riot’s ambitious 2023 roadmap includes multiple rework categories targeting different aspects of champion design. Understanding these distinctions helps players anticipate meta shifts and adapt their strategies accordingly.
What are the different types of reworks?
Riot Games currently employs three distinct rework methodologies, each serving different design goals and resource requirements. These categories represent a maturation of Riot’s approach to champion maintenance over the game’s thirteen-year history.
Visual Gameplay Updates (VGUs) constitute the most extensive overhaul category, requiring development resources comparable to creating entirely new champions. These comprehensive projects typically involve complete visual redesigns, lore updates, and ability kit reworks, making them the rarest but most impactful updates.
Comprehensive Gameplay Updates (CGUs) focus exclusively on ability modernization while preserving existing visual assets and thematic identity. The Aurelion Sol CGU demonstrated how champions with beloved themes but problematic gameplay can be successfully modernized.
Midscope Updates represent the most targeted approach, focusing on specific mechanical issues without complete kit redesigns. These updates typically target champions with solid foundational designs that need minor adjustments to remain competitive.
Visual Gameplay Update 2023 — Skarner

Skarner emerged victorious from the 2022 community poll, beating contenders including Tryndamere, Shyvana, Kog’Maw, and Nocturne. His transformation represents the only scheduled Visual Gameplay Update for 2023, with development spanning multiple quarters.
The Brackern champion’s redesign incorporates Hextech aesthetics more prominently, reflecting his race’s connection to this powerful energy source. The update aims to modernize both his visual presentation and gameplay mechanics while preserving his core identity as a crystal scorpion.
Yuumi Rework 2023

Yuumi’s upcoming rework addresses her problematic dominance in professional play while maintaining her unique attachment mechanic. Riot designers aim to provide more early-game agency while reducing her scaling dominance.
Midscope Updates
Midscope Updates continue to be Riot’s primary tool for champion modernization in 2023. These targeted changes allow for rapid iteration while minimizing disruption to established player bases.
Jax Rework

Jax’s Midscope Update, already deployed in early 2023, focused on visual effect modernization while preserving his core combat identity. The update enhanced his lane dominance capabilities while maintaining his signature auto-attack dodging mechanics.
Rell Rework

Rell’s Midscope Update emphasizes her mounted combat fantasy while addressing usability concerns. The rework reportedly maintains her stance-swapping mechanics while repositioning her mount/dismount functionality.
Neeko Rework
The Neeko Midscope Update represents one of the most creative transformations, expanding her shapeshifting capabilities beyond champion mimicry. This update allows transformation into jungle monsters, minions, and environmental objects, significantly expanding her deception potential.
Understanding rework timelines and scopes provides strategic advantages for both casual and competitive players. Major Visual Gameplay Updates like Skarner’s typically require 6-9 months from concept to deployment, while Midscope Updates often complete within 2-4 months.
Common adaptation mistakes include underestimating reworked champions’ new power spikes and failing to adjust play patterns to counter their updated abilities. Successful players typically spend 10-15 hours mastering reworked champions during the initial adaptation period.
For players looking to optimize their gameplay further, our Class Guide provides deeper insights into champion role optimization.
Advanced players should focus on identifying how reworks shift champion power curves and adjust their itemization accordingly. Monitoring PBE feedback and early patch notes can provide crucial insights into upcoming meta shifts.
Strategic preparation involves monitoring champion-specific subreddits, watching high-elo gameplay, and practicing in normal queues before bringing reworked champions into ranked matches.
Action Checklist
- Monitor PBE updates for early rework testing and feedback
- Practice reworked champions in normal games for 5-10 matches before ranked play
- Analyze high-elo gameplay videos to understand optimal play patterns
- Adjust item builds and rune setups based on reworked ability scalings
- Review patch notes for balance adjustments following rework deployments
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