Can I Change My LoL Username? A Comprehensive Guide to Riot IDs and Name Changes
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Yes, you can change your League of Legends username, but the process has evolved significantly. The old “Summoner Name” system has been phased out in favor of Riot IDs. This means that what you see in-game and what your friends use to find you is now tied to your overall Riot Account, affecting all Riot games you play. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how it works, the costs involved, and answers to common questions.
Understanding Riot IDs vs. Summoner Names
For years, League of Legends players identified themselves using Summoner Names. These were unique in-game names specific to League. However, Riot Games has transitioned to a more unified account system, using Riot IDs across all its titles like Valorant, Legends of Runeterra, and Teamfight Tactics.
This change simplifies things in some ways but also alters how you manage your in-game identity. Your Riot ID consists of your in-game name and a hashtag followed by a few numbers (e.g., PlayerName#NA1). This hashtag allows for more players to share the same name, as the numbers differentiate them.
How to Change Your Riot ID
Changing your Riot ID is a straightforward process:
- Log in to your Riot account on the official Riot Games website.
- Navigate to the Riot Account Management Page. You can usually find this by clicking on your profile icon and selecting “Settings” or “Account.”
- Look for the “Riot ID” section.
- Click the edit icon (usually a pencil) next to your current Riot ID.
- Enter your new desired display name and hashtag.
- Save your changes.
Keep in mind that your Riot ID must adhere to certain rules:
- It must be at least 3 characters long and no more than 16 characters.
- It can include spaces and some special characters.
- It cannot include offensive or disruptive words.
Cost and Frequency of Name Changes
Riot Games provides one free Riot ID change every 365 days. If you want to change your name more frequently, there’s a fee involved. This system is similar to the previous Summoner Name change mechanic in League of Legends.
If you want to change your name more often than once a year, you’ll need to pay. Previously, Summoner Name changes cost around 1300 RP (Riot Points), which translates to approximately $10. You could also use Blue Essence (13,900) to change your name. While the exact pricing may vary slightly depending on your region and current promotions, expect a similar cost structure for additional Riot ID changes.
Reasons Why You Might Not Be Able to Change Your Name
There are several reasons why you might encounter issues when trying to change your Riot ID:
- Cooldown Period: You might be within the 30-day cooldown period from your last name change.
- Inappropriate Name: The name you’re trying to use might violate Riot’s naming policy (offensive language, etc.).
- Unavailable Name: While the hashtag system allows multiple players to share a name, the combination of your chosen name and hashtag might already be taken.
- Account Restrictions: If your account is currently restricted due to a ban or suspension, you might be unable to change your name.
- Technical Issues: Sometimes, temporary server issues can prevent name changes. Try again later if you suspect this is the case.
FAQs About League of Legends Usernames and Riot IDs
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the complexities of usernames and name changes in League of Legends and the Riot Games ecosystem:
1. Is my Riot ID the same as my League of Legends Summoner Name?
Yes, in a way. The Summoner Name is now effectively your Riot ID in League of Legends. Riot IDs are the unified identity across all Riot Games, replacing the game-specific Summoner Names. Your in-game name and the #tag are your Riot ID.
2. How often can I change my Riot ID?
You receive one free Riot ID change every 365 days. Additional changes require payment.
3. How much does it cost to change my Riot ID more than once a year?
The cost is comparable to the previous Summoner Name change fee, around 1300 RP (approximately $10) or 13,900 Blue Essence. Prices can vary slightly.
4. Can two Riot accounts have the same Riot ID?
Yes, but not entirely. Different accounts can share the same name, but the hashtag and number combination must be unique. For example, Player1#NA1 and Player1#EUW2 are allowed, but two accounts cannot both be Player1#NA1.
5. What happens if I have the same Summoner Name on multiple servers?
You may be prompted to change your name on one or more servers to ensure uniqueness across the Riot ecosystem. The system will likely guide you through this process when you log in.
6. What characters are allowed in a Riot ID?
Your Riot ID should be at least three characters long and no more than 16 characters. It can include spaces and some special characters but cannot include offensive or disruptive words.
7. How do I recover my Riot/League of Legends account without my username?
On the Riot Games account recovery page, there’s a “Forgot Username” option. Follow the prompts to recover your username using your email address associated with the account.
8. How long does a Summoner Name last? What happens to inactive names?
Each Summoner Name has 6 months of inactivity protection upon creation. After that, if no games are played on the account, the name becomes available for others to claim through the name change service. This applies to inactive Riot IDs as well.
9. Can I get banned for my Riot ID?
Yes. Riot IDs that violate their terms of service, including offensive or disruptive names, can result in a ban or a forced name change. An “ID ban” can also restrict your ability to stream or play the game publicly.
10. How do I reset my Riot ID if I’ve been forced to change it?
If you were forced to change your Riot ID due to a violation of the naming policy, you can choose a new name that complies with the rules. You’ll likely be prompted to do so upon logging in.
11. Is it legal to sell League of Legends accounts?
No. Account trading is a violation of Riot Games’ Terms of Use and can result in a permanent ban. It’s an illegal practice that harms the community.
12. Can I make two Riot accounts with the same email address?
No, typically. Each Riot account requires a unique email address. While workarounds might exist, it’s generally not possible or recommended to associate multiple accounts with the same email.
13. Does Riot delete old, inactive accounts?
Riot Games does delete old, inactive accounts that haven’t been used for a significant period and have minimal activity (e.g., no purchases, few games played).
14. How do I find my League of Legends username (Riot ID)?
Your League of Legends username is now your Riot ID, visible in the Riot Games client and in-game. You can also find it on the Riot Games website by logging into your account.
15. Where can I learn more about gaming communities?
You can find more information about gaming communities and the impacts they have on society at Games Learning Society or GamesLearningSociety.org.
Conclusion
Changing your League of Legends username (now Riot ID) is possible, but understanding the new system is crucial. Remember the cost and frequency limitations, and always adhere to Riot’s naming policies. By following these guidelines, you can keep your in-game identity fresh and appropriate.