Foreword: The S16 season has officially kicked off. I'm sure most fans have been following the recent competitions. Recently, Riot officially confirmed the news about the Classic server and released all the specifics. It's evident that the company is feeling the pressure. They've turned the Classic and regular servers into two completely separate account systems with no data sharing, meaning players need to sign up again. Many fans are now paying close attention. Many old champion attributes and classic versions are gradually returning. Moreover, the Classic server introduces new mechanics, and it seems the battle pass will allow players to earn lots of gold and runes.

LOL Classic server still relies on monetization to attract fans.

I believe most players are quite familiar with League of Legends. As an esports title, it has achieved remarkable success over the past decade or so. With each update, many veteran players have gradually left the game, mainly because they can't keep up with the pace. After all, as we grow older, we can't devote all our energy to gaming. Some time ago, several industry insiders openly revealed that a Classic server for League of Legends was coming, and even Uzi said the details of the Classic server would be even better than before. Recently, the company officially announced this news, and the release date is drawing closer.

This Classic server is very similar to the old versions. First, players need to register a new account—accounts for the Classic and regular servers are not linked. You start from level 1 and go up to level 30, which remains the maximum. This update will directly release 60 old-version champions, with more to be added later. The map will be the original Summoner's Rift, allowing players to fully enjoy the nostalgia of the old days. Of course, the most important core adjustment is that all original items, runes, mastery systems, and summoner spells from earlier versions will make a comeback.

The biggest controversy at the moment is that the Classic server operates as an independent system. This means all account data is reset. Skins purchased on the regular server will not carry over to the Classic server. To use your favorite champions or skins, you have to buy them again—it feels like starting from scratch. The company is clearly showing its hand, and the monetization strategy is blatant. It's expected that the Classic server will be even more aggressive in attracting fans. Some commercial models have already been revealed, such as an exclusive old-version battle pass shop and battle pass purchases—features carried over from the current version. Many people will likely pay up.

The Classic server itself is indeed a way to lure back veteran players. But with so many monetization methods added, will it annoy the community? If you truly start from zero, reaching level 30 is a long grind. Anyone who played during Seasons 2 and 3 knows that it takes many games to hit level 30, and you also need to earn gold to buy runes. To fully experience the old version, you'd probably need at least a hundred matches. Of course, it's possible that the official battle pass will offer extra rewards like experience, gold, and large runes—these might be obtainable through small purchases.

In conclusion,

The launch of the Classic server will certainly spark debate, but the company isn't running a charity. They definitely want to generate revenue through the old version and old mechanics. Of course, I believe long-time fans will be willing to pay for nostalgia, but hopefully the company won't be too greedy. A small amount of spending is understandable, but if it turns into something similar to current pricing, few people will bother. After all, skins are getting more expensive—good ones now cost thousands. I hope the company gives this careful thought.

What do you, dear viewers, think about this?