Everything You Need to Know About the Quickplay Game Mode in League of Legends

Table of Contents

• Purpose of Quickplay
• Step-by-Step: How to Play Quickplay
• Use Case: Why Choose Quickplay Over Draft?
• Best Results: Strategy for Faster Games
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Disclaimer

Purpose

Quickplay is a permanent game mode on Summoner's Rift designed to replace the legacy "Blind Pick" system. In 2026, its primary purpose is to eliminate the friction of Champion Select and the stress of "calling" roles in chat. By allowing players to pre-select their champions and positions before even entering a queue, Quickplay ensures you get to play exactly what you want, when you want, without the risk of bans or lobby dodging.

Step-by-Step

1. Select the Quickplay Lobby

From the League of Legends main client, click "Play" and select "Summoner's Rift." From the sub-menu, choose Quickplay. You will notice the layout is different from Ranked or Draft modes.

2. Configure Your Primary and Secondary Slots

You must fill out two distinct "slots" before the "Find Match" button becomes active. Each slot requires:

• A Champion: Choose any champion you own or is on free rotation.
• A Position: Assign that champion to a lane (Top, Jungle, Mid, Bot, or Support).
• Runes and Summoner Spells: Set these up in the pre-match screen so they are ready the moment the game loads.

3. Meeting the "Priority Role" Requirement

To keep queue times low in 2026, the system may require one of your two slots to be a "Priority Role" (usually Jungle or Support). You cannot enter the queue unless your choices align with the current server demand.

4. Entering the Match

Once you hit "Find Match," the client looks for nine other players. When a match is found, there is no "Accept" button or Champion Select screen. You will transition directly from the queue into the loading screen, saving roughly 5 to 7 minutes per game.

Use Case

Scenario A: Testing New Builds. If you want to try a specific 2026 item rework on a champion like Yasuo or Aatrox, Quickplay is the best environment. You are guaranteed your champion, allowing you to focus purely on mechanical testing without the fear of the champion being banned in Draft.

Scenario B: Limited Gaming Time. If you only have 30 minutes before work or school, Quickplay is the only mode that guarantees you'll be on the Rift within 60 seconds of clicking "Play."

Best Results

For the best experience, coordinate with a duo partner. If you and a friend cover the "Priority Roles" together, your queue times will be near-instant. Additionally, because Quickplay uses an independent MMR (Matchmaking Rating), use this mode to warm up your "hand-eye coordination" before jumping into the 2026 Ranked Season ladder.

FAQ

Can the enemy team pick the same champion as me?

Yes. Since there is no draft phase, "mirror matches" (e.g., Ahri vs. Ahri) are possible in Quickplay.

What happens if I forget to change my Smite as a Jungler?

In 2026, the Quickplay system automatically detects if you are assigned to the Jungle role and will force-equip Smite for you if you forget to select it.

Are there bans in Quickplay?

No. There are no bans in Quickplay. This is the only mode where you can play "power-pick" champions that are otherwise 100% banned in Ranked play.

Disclaimer

Quickplay is a casual game mode. While the 2026 Summoner's Code still applies, the environment is generally less competitive than Ranked. Players are encouraged to be patient with others who may be testing new champions. Game balance in mirror matches can occasionally feel inconsistent due to the lack of counter-picking.