League of Legends, a globally renowned MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena), boasts millions of players worldwide. One common question among players, aspiring players, and even casual observers is: how long does an average League of Legends game last? The answer, as with many things in League, is nuanced and depends on several factors. This article delves into the average game time, exploring the variables that influence its length and providing insights for players of all skill levels.
What is the Average Length of a League of Legends Match?
While there's no single definitive answer, a typical ranked League of Legends match lasts between 25 and 40 minutes. However, this is a broad range. Shorter games can conclude within 20 minutes, while exceptionally long games might stretch beyond an hour. The average game time can also fluctuate based on the rank, game mode, and even the specific champion compositions involved.
Factors Affecting League of Legends Game Length
Several factors contribute to the variability in League of Legends match duration:
1. Skill Level of Players:
- Lower ELO (ranked rating): Games at lower ranks tend to be shorter, often concluding quicker due to less strategic play, more frequent mistakes, and a higher chance of early game snowballing.
- Higher ELO: Higher-ranked matches typically last longer. Players at these levels demonstrate improved strategic thinking, better decision-making, and a stronger understanding of game mechanics, leading to more drawn-out teamfights and objectives.
2. Game Mode:
- Summoner's Rift (Ranked & Unranked): This is the standard game mode, and its average game time falls within the 25-40 minute range, as mentioned earlier.
- ARAM (All Random All Mid): ARAM games are generally shorter, often lasting between 15 and 25 minutes due to the chaotic nature and faster pace.
- Other Game Modes: Other temporary game modes introduced by Riot Games may have widely varying game lengths depending on their specific rulesets.
3. Champion Compositions:
- Early Game Domination: Teams with champions excelling in early-game aggression can secure significant advantages quickly, potentially leading to shorter matches.
- Late Game Scaling: Conversely, teams with compositions that scale well into the late game might prolong matches as they strive for their power spikes.
4. Objective Control:
- Dragon and Rift Herald Control: Teams effectively securing these objectives gain significant advantages which can influence the game's pace and length. Efficient teams will capitalize on leads and push for victory, while struggling teams will try to stall for a comeback opportunity.
- Baron Nashor Control: Baron Nashor, a powerful late-game objective, significantly influences the game, typically leading to a faster end if one team secures it decisively.
How Long Does an Average ARAM Game Last?
As mentioned earlier, ARAM games are typically shorter, averaging between 15 and 25 minutes. The faster pace, concentrated map, and random champion assignments contribute to quicker matches. However, even in ARAM, strategic decision-making and efficient objective control can still influence the game length.
Does Game Length Affect MMR (Matchmaking Rating)?
While there's no direct correlation between game length and MMR gain or loss, extremely short or long games can sometimes be indicative of unusual gameplay. An unusually short game might suggest a stomp, while an exceptionally long game may imply a stalemate or an unusually drawn-out match. Riot Games' matchmaking system considers various factors, but game duration is not a primary determinant of MMR changes.
Conclusion: Understanding the Variables
The average League of Legends game time is not fixed; it's a dynamic value influenced by multiple interacting factors. While a general range of 25-40 minutes applies to standard Summoner's Rift games, the actual length can vary significantly depending on player skill, game mode, champion selections, and objective control. Understanding these variables gives players a better perspective on what to expect within each match.
