This side-scrolling metagame features Xin Zhao fighting alongside Yunara.
Riot Games is introducing a brand-new side-scrolling metagame to League of Legends (LoL), just in time for the launch of their latest champion, Yunara. This 2.5D beat-'em-up stars Yunara and Xin Zhao and offers a completely self-contained experience separate from the core MOBA gameplay.
In the teaser clip shared by Riot, players got a first glimpse at a stylised version of Ionia, with Yunara and Xin Zhao battling side by side. The format mirrors traditional arcade-style beat-'em-ups, complete with health bars, special abilities, and character swapping during combat. The format, with its health bars and combat icons, feels familiar, but there’s something about the art style and animations and UI that seems a bit similar to Riot’s upcoming fighter, 2XKO.
Although both characters have not been confirmed as part of the new roster, LoL players can still enjoy the duo beat up mobs in the new metagame.
Spirit Blossom returns with Yunara and Xin Zhao in new meta-game mode
The beat-'em-up mode allows players to control both Yunara and Xin Zhao, switching between them to take down enemies. It’s a more casual, action-packed way to explore the LoL universe without needing to queue for a full match. Riot have confirmed that progress in this mini-game will not require LoL gameplay, making it accessible to all players through the client.
Alongside this, Riot are bringing back a reimagined version of Spirit Bonds—the companion-building feature from the original Spirit Blossom event. In contrast to the beat-'em-up, this feature will be tied to traditional League gameplay and offer more narrative-driven progression.
This is just one part of Riot’s growing efforts to expand the LoL experience beyond the Rift. From visual novels to card games and now a full beat-'em-up, the studio is continuing to test new ways to let fans interact with Runeterra’s champions and stories.
Yunara and the new meta-game are expected to go live with the next major patch.
