Changing your in-game name in League of Legends (LoL) is a question that many players often ask. Your summoner name is how you are recognized in the vast world of League of Legends, often reflecting your personality, skills, or favorite champions.
Whether you want a fresh start, a clever new handle, or simply want to correct a typo, changing your LoL name is possible, but it comes with some conditions and costs. Understanding these details can help you make the right choice and navigate the process smoothly.
From the initial account creation, your summoner name becomes your identity on the Rift. However, Riot Games gives players the freedom to change this name, albeit with some restrictions to maintain the game’s integrity and community standards.
If you’re wondering how often you can make this change, how much it costs, or whether there are any limitations on the names you can choose, the answers will be covered thoroughly here.
Changing your summoner name is more than just a cosmetic tweak. It affects your profile, friends list, and how others perceive you in-game.
Knowing the ins and outs of this process ensures that you won’t miss any important details and can make your gaming experience even better.
Understanding the Basics of Changing Your LoL In-Game Name
Changing your League of Legends summoner name is a straightforward but regulated process. Riot Games allows you to update your name, but it’s important to know the rules and costs involved before you proceed.
Your summoner name is unique and visible to everyone in the game, so Riot enforces guidelines to prevent offensive, inappropriate, or misleading names. When you initiate a name change, the system checks the availability and compliance of your new choice.
Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- You can only change your name if it’s not currently taken by another player.
- Names violating Riot’s rules, such as offensive language, are automatically rejected.
- Name changes are not free; they require in-game currency or real money.
“Your summoner name is your identity on the Rift, so choose wisely and respect the community guidelines.” – Riot Games
What is a Summoner Name?
A summoner name is your unique identifier in League of Legends. It appears in all game modes, leaderboards, and social interactions.
Unlike your Riot account email or login name, the summoner name is public-facing and customizable within certain limits.
Changing it resets some social aspects, such as friend tags, but your game progress, skins, and stats remain intact. This is why many players take care to select a name that resonates with their style or personality.
How to Change Your League of Legends Name Step-by-Step
If you’ve decided to change your in-game name, knowing the precise steps is essential. Riot has made the process user-friendly, but a clear walkthrough helps avoid mistakes.
Here’s how to do it:
- Log into the League of Legends client with your Riot account.
- Navigate to the Store tab and select the Account section.
- Find the option labeled “Summoner Name Change.”
- Enter your desired new name and check its availability.
- Confirm your choice and complete the transaction using Blue Essence or RP.
After purchase, your new summoner name will be displayed immediately across all game modes and platforms.
Choosing the Right Name
When selecting your new name, consider something memorable and appropriate. Avoid names that could be mistaken for Riot staff or that violate the community standards and rules.
It’s also good to pick a name that fits well with your gaming persona.
Remember, once you spend your currency, the name change is final. While you can always pay to change it again, frequent changes might confuse your friends or team members.
Costs and Currency: What You Need to Know
Changing your summoner name in League of Legends isn’t free. Riot charges a fee, which can be paid using either Blue Essence (BE) or Riot Points (RP).
Understanding these currencies helps you plan your name change wisely.
Blue Essence is earned by playing the game and completing missions, while Riot Points are purchased with real money. The cost for a name change is typically:
| Currency | Cost |
| Blue Essence (BE) | 13,500 BE |
| Riot Points (RP) | 1,300 RP |
If you don’t have enough Blue Essence or Riot Points, you will need to acquire them before changing your name. Many players prefer to use Blue Essence to save money, but Riot Points offer a faster option.
“Balancing in-game economy with player customization options like name changes is crucial for a fair and enjoyable experience.” – Game Economy Analyst
Limitations and Restrictions on Summoner Names
Riot enforces strict guidelines on what you can and cannot use for your summoner name. These rules ensure the game remains welcoming and respectful for all players.
Names that are vulgar, offensive, or impersonate other players or Riot staff are not allowed. Additionally, names containing personal information or hate speech are blocked automatically.
- Maximum length is 16 characters.
- Names must be unique; duplicates are disallowed.
- Special characters and spaces are limited.
- Names that promote cheating or exploitative behavior are banned.
Attempting to use a restricted name will result in an error message during the name change process. It’s best to brainstorm several options in case your first choice isn’t accepted.
Tips for Creating a Great Summoner Name
Try to pick a name that is easy to read and pronounce. Avoid overly complicated combinations or excessive numbers.
Sometimes, a clever pun or reference to your favorite champion or role can make your name stand out.
For inspiration on unique and creative names, you might enjoy exploring ideas from other naming contexts, such as creative dragon names or even cute pet names.
How Often Can You Change Your LoL Name?
League of Legends does not impose a strict limit on how many times you can change your summoner name. However, each change costs Blue Essence or Riot Points, which naturally limits frequent alterations.
There is no cooldown period between changes, so once you’ve made a purchase, you can immediately change your name again if you wish. Despite this flexibility, it’s wise to think carefully before changing your name repeatedly, as it could confuse your friends and teammates.
“Your summoner name is your legacy on the Rift; frequent changes might dilute your recognition.” – Pro Player Advice
Additionally, keeping a consistent name helps build your personal brand if you participate in ranked games or streaming. Continuous changes might affect how others perceive your identity and online presence.
What Happens to Your Profile and Friends List?
Changing your summoner name updates your profile instantly, but your account’s progression, skins, achievements, and friend list remain unaffected. Your friends will see your new name, but the friend connection itself does not break.
It’s important to notify your friends of the change if you want them to recognize you quickly. Some players choose to add a note or message before changing their name to avoid confusion.
Here’s what to expect:
- Your new name appears in chat, match history, and profile.
- Friend tags and chat history stay intact.
- Game stats and achievements remain linked to your account.
Impact on Third-Party Platforms
If you use third-party tracking or streaming platforms, updating your summoner name there is usually a manual process. You might need to adjust linked accounts or notify followers of your new identity.
Some players find this a good opportunity to rebrand or refresh their public persona, while others prefer to keep their original name to maintain continuity.
Alternatives to Changing Your Summoner Name
If you’re hesitant to change your summoner name due to the cost or other reasons, consider some alternatives that might satisfy your desire for a new identity.
- Use a Nickname: Many platforms and communities allow you to add nicknames or display names that differ from your summoner name.
- Create a New Account: Starting fresh lets you pick any name you want, but you lose your progress and purchases.
- Customize Your Profile: Use banners, icons, and status messages to inject personality without changing your name.
Each option has pros and cons, and your choice depends on how strongly you feel about changing your name versus keeping your existing history intact.
For more insights on naming and identity, you might find this post on how you got your name quite fascinating.
Summary Table: Pros and Cons of Changing Your LoL Name
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Refresh your in-game identity | Costs Blue Essence or Riot Points |
| Reflects new personality or team | Possible confusion among friends and teammates |
| Correct typos or unwanted old names | Must comply with Riot’s naming policies |
| Instant update across all Riot platforms | No refund or reversal after purchase |
Final Thoughts on Changing Your League of Legends In-Game Name
Your summoner name in League of Legends is more than just a label—it’s a reflection of who you are in one of the most popular competitive games worldwide. Changing it can breathe new life into your gaming experience, help you stand out, or simply correct an old mistake.
However, it’s important to weigh the cost and consequences before making the switch.
By understanding the process, costs, restrictions, and impact on your profile and social interactions, you can make an informed decision that enhances your time on the Rift. Remember that your name is a big part of your identity, so choosing something meaningful and memorable can enrich your gameplay and social connections.
Whether you decide to change your summoner name or stick with the original, the key is to enjoy the game and connect with the community. If you’re curious about naming in other contexts, exploring topics like what are the names of the kittens in The Aristocats?
can provide fun inspiration and a fresh perspective on how names shape stories and identities.
