League of Legends (LoL) is a free online multiplayer game that is also known as a MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena). Played by over 100 million active users each month, it is also the most popular competitive eSport game in the world.

Created and developed by Riot Games, the game consists of an online battleground where players control “champions”, or avatars, with unique abilities. Players gather in two teams of five with the ultimate goal of destroying the opposing team’s home base, or “nexus”.

So are you all ready to play? Just kidding, here are some key things to keep in mind when starting the game:

1.You don ’ t have to spend real money

The game is free to play and is available to both Apple and Windows users. Though money may be spent on in-game features and cosmetic items, this is completely up to the player, as no advantages are gained upon purchasing in game items.

2. It’s 5 versus 5

Players are matched into teams of five, each using 1 of 137 unique champions to battle it out. Matches usually last between 15-45 minutes, but can go on indefinitely until one team defeats the opposing team.

3. You win if you destroy the enemy’s “nexus”

Once in the game, teams must work together to destroy enemy “objectives” such as towers and inhibitors, which help to weaken and destroy the “nexus”, the headquarters of each team.

4. Each champion is unique

Champions are what make the game. They are individually controlled by players and each have exclusive movements, attacks and abilities which determine the outcome of every action within the game.

5. Champions excel at different positions

Certain champions excel at certain “roles”, meaning that they have designated things they do well within the game. Similar to other sports, different positions are better-suited for different players, all depending on different play styles and skill sets.

6. The game is constantly evolving

The game changes extremely often. Known as “patches”, there are major changes twice a year, and minor changes every two weeks. This keeps the game interesting with constant new features, while also increasing diversification within the competitive scene.

League of Legends is a complex and compelling video game that may seem hard to pick up at first. But as you learn about the different champions, nuances of the map, and how to work together with your team, your journey from newbie to veteran is sure to be enjoyable.