Brawl is a new game mode that offers a quicker, more action-focused way to play, with matches that can sometimes wrap up in 10 minutes.
There’s a new League of Legends (LoL) game mode coming, and while its name sounds similar to another game mode from a different MOBA, it’s not the same at all, and definitely not a rename for All Random All Mid (ARAM). Arriving in Season 2, which coincides with Spirit Blossom Beyond, Brawl is a game mode that offers a quicker, more direct take on team battles.
A faster way to play League of Legends
Designed for fast-paced matches lasting around ten minutes, Brawl sees two teams of five clash in a small arena where the focus is purely on combat and minion control. There are no towers, no objectives, and no map-wide strategy—just team fights and pushing minions into the enemy base.
Unlike ARAM, players in Brawl will be able to select their champion, making it more accessible for those who want to practise or enjoy a particular pick. The setup is meant to appeal to players looking for something more relaxed or action-heavy, without the need to coordinate a full match on Summoner’s Rift.
The mode was originally developed during Thunderdome, an internal event where Riot Games developers pitch and prototype ideas within a short window. Brawl was the result of one such session, aimed at distilling the game into a more focused experience for both long-time players and newcomers alike.
How Brawl works
Matches begin with each team holding 250 health. Champion takedowns deal five damage to the opposing team, while minion kills chip away one point. Pushing allied minions into the enemy’s Bandle Portal also causes damage, turning the simple act of wave control into a direct path to victory.
The map, based in Bandle City, is compact to keep players close to the action, but wide enough to support skirmishes across multiple lanes. Side camps on both ends of the lane offer buffs and gold, encouraging brawls over territory and adding some flexibility to team compositions.
Gold is earned passively throughout the match and boosted by takedowns and camp control. Items can be purchased immediately upon returning to base, reducing downtime and keeping the action flowing.
To prevent one-sided snowballing, Brawl includes a comeback mechanic. Teams that fall significantly behind will receive a buff that increases their damage dealt and reduces damage taken, giving them a chance to recover and stay competitive.
Riot has described Brawl as part of a shift toward smaller, quicker experiments that emphasise fun rather than scale. While previous modes like Arena and Swarm offered large-scale experiences, Brawl is intended to be simpler and more lightweight, even if that means it launches with some rough edges.
Brawl is scheduled to go live with Patch 25.10. Are you excited to try this new game mode?
