Many know her as The Deceiver. Others know her as the shadowy figure whose Black Rose manipulates Runeterra from behind the scenes. League of Legends players simply know her as LeBlanc, however, a mid lane assassin that’s been popping health bars and taking names for what feels like an eternity. Following her eerie debut in Arcane Season 2 and appearance in the 2025 Season 1 cinematic, Riot has confirmed that the malevolent trickster will be getting a visual rework during the Noxus-inspired season; news that will no doubt polarize the fanbase.
As someone who played LeBlanc very badly for a whole season, I’m in two minds about her Arcane model. While I appreciate the fact that she, y’know, has actual clothes now, I’ve always loved the contrast of deep violet purples and glistening golds. While the League of Legends 2025 Season 1 cinematic was certainly exciting, I walked away a little worried about what the future held for the MOBA‘s resident temptress.
In its Welcome to Noxus dev update, Riot has confirmed that LeBlanc will be getting a visual rework during the Noxus-inspired season, with another champion following in her footsteps – but it doesn’t sound like Vladimir.
In the Welcome to Noxus cinematic, LeBlanc trades out her signature purple bob for long, straight black hair and a high-necked vampiric-looking navy gown. Her black, teardrop-like makeup has been changed out for gold, with a similar shade of brown-yellow lipstick replacing the original purple. This is reflected in the concept art for her new appearance, with her staff now sporting a floating Black Rose symbol that oozes red energy.
It’s a choice that’s sure to cause division, as the cinematic itself was met with a somewhat lukewarm reception from the League fanbase. While some note that the VGU art “looks stunning,” others have called it “disappointing,” lamenting the loss of that iconic purple bob haircut.
I probably sit a little more in that latter camp, as while I actually love the gown and staff changes, the hair feels a little lackluster to me. I have, however, attempted to dye my hair purple on many occasions in a futile attempt to match her majesty, so I’ll accept accusations of being slightly biased.
But that’s not all. Riot has also confirmed that another champion update will hit the Rift later this year. Of course, all eyes immediately point to Vladimir, who we see purring at LeBlanc in the cinematic, but the ‘later this year’ part somewhat rules him out. With Demacia and Ionia on Riot’s radars for future Arcane-style projects, maybe we’ll finally get that Shyvana rework – we can live to dream.
If you’re planning to dive into Noxus – I mean, Summoner’s Rift – when the new update drops, check out our LoL tier list so that you’re locking in the best champions for the job. Alternatively, if you’re looking to kick off the year in Black Rose style, here’s a list of League of Legends skins that are currently on sale.
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