Introduction to Riot’s First Selection system

Riot Games is set to introduce a new drafting style called the “First Selection” system in 2026. This system is a rules update for LoL Esports that assigns ‘map side choice’ and ‘draft order’ separately, aiming to balance the previously perceived bias towards the blue side in-game and enriching the depth of the draft.

Nature of the First Selection system

In the First Selection system, instead of the side selection privilege, the pre-arranged team now gets a choice of “First Selection”. The “First Selection” allows the team to decide on either the side to play (blue or red) or whether they want the first or second pick in the draft. Consequently, the opposing team automatically obtains the remaining option.

Purpose of the system

Riot Games has introduced this system with an objective of balancing the gameplay between the red and the blue side. It targets the long-held belief that the blue side inherently possesses added strength due to the guarantee of the first pick on priority meta champions. Under the new system, teams cannot secure the “blue + first pick” combination. Instead, they have to opt between side comfort or the power of first or last pick.

Global introduction of the system

Starting 2026, Riot Games aims to incorporate this system globally across every competitive region. It will be applicable to all standard LoL Esports best-of series, along with the format updates planned for 2026 including new events and tweaks in the existing formats.

Effect on strategy development

The First Selection system creates a two-step draft process with Team A choosing the ‘side’ or ‘pick order’ and Team B being given the remaining option. This change is likely to enhance strategic depth in match preparation. Some teams may choose ‘red side + last pick’ to facilitate counterpicks. Others might prefer playing on a specific side influenced by early objectives or lane matchups and may sacrifice the first pick in the process. Analysts suggest this will challenge the conventional wisdom about the blue side’s advantage, prompting teams to reassess their tactical approach.

Relation to wider 2026 LoL changes

Alongside the First Selection system, Riot Games is planning major game modifications in 2026. This includes an overhaul of the gameplay with the introduction of Patch 26.1 which has updates such as role quests, new items, and vision alterations. Also, Riot is launching ‘Season 1: For Demacia’ with changes to esports formats, and an event called First Stand in São Paulo. These alterations are intended to make professional play more strategically diverse and balanced.

Further Information

For understanding the system better, you can take a look at a ‘sample best-of-5 draft’ under the First Selection system or compare the ‘side-selection rules’ of 2025 and 2026 step by step.