Riot Games has yet to make an official statement, but all indications suggest that the upcoming champion in League of Legends is named Zaahen. Although details about this formidable Darkin were previously sparse, new insights have emerged through the recently released The Truth Motion Comic, which delves into Zaahen’s narrative.
Overview of Zaahen
Zaahen stands out as a powerful Darkin; however, unlike many of his kin, his intentions are not rooted in destruction. Historical accounts from fifteen centuries ago recount the Darkin’s invasion of Ionia alongside their followers, igniting a fierce war across the First Lands. As despair engulfed the Ionian people, they sought guidance from the shrine spirits for salvation, leading to Zaahen’s emergence.
Originally, Zaahen was part of a noble faction from the sun-empire, likely Shurima, that ultimately succumbed to the Darkin’s corruption. Remarkably, Zaahen resisted this malevolence and chose to aid Ionia in its fight against the Darkin forces rather than join in their destruction.
With Zaahen’s support, Ionia battled the Darkin for three years, ultimately securing victory. However, instead of celebrating, Zaahen was filled with trepidation regarding his own powers and apprehensively chose to relinquish his freedom to protect the inhabitants of the First Lands from himself.
To ensure that Zaahen remained confined, the decision was made to entomb him within the Ionian Temple of Twilight, which was then cast into the Spirit Realm. To prevent anyone from releasing him, Yunara was also sealed within the Spirit Realm, tasked with guarding the temple indefinitely.
Throughout his many battles, Zaahen managed to imprison several Darkin by binding them to physical objects, including Rhaast and Kayn’s scythe.
The Possibility of Zaahen’s Liberation
Recent developments concerning the Wyldbloom have led to Yunara and the shrine she protected being retrieved from the Spirit Realm after centuries of absence. This has unveiled a previously enigmatic story surrounding Zaahen and Yunara, hinting that someone was aware of the underlying truth.
It appears that Zaahen’s imprisonment may soon come to an end, as Yunara is lured away from her guard duty to confront some lesser demons known as Azakana. This diversion has likely been orchestrated to facilitate access to Zaahen.
Anticipating a New Darkin Champion
While a formal confirmation is still pending, numerous indicators strongly suggest that Zaahen will be the latest addition to League of Legends’ roster of champions. Although information about his abilities and gameplay style remains scarce at this time, anticipation is high for how he will reinterpret the Darkin archetype.
Zaahen is expected to be introduced during League of Legends Season 3 in 2025, so players should be on the lookout for his arrival in the near future.
