League of Legends, with its vast roster of over 160 champions, offers professional players an expansive battlefield of strategic depth and character mastery. Among these professionals, one name stands out for his relentless pursuit of versatility and excellence: Faker. The legendary midlaner, during the 2024 Summer LCK playoffs in a series against KT Rolster, locked in his 78th unique champion, Smolder—a choice that not only highlights his adaptability but also edges him closer to playing half of the game's entire roster in professional play.
Faker's selection of Smolder, traditionally an ADC champion, for a midlane role in a crucial playoff match is a testament to his innovative approach and in-depth understanding of the game. This choice paid off, contributing to T1's 3-1 series win against KT Rolster and advancing them to the next playoff round. This achievement adds another layer to Faker's already legendary status in the League of Legends community.
The breadth of Faker's champion pool is staggering. With 78 champions played, he showcases not just a wide range of skills but also a strategic mindset that adapts to the evolving meta of League of Legends. His most played champions—Azir, Orianna, and Ryze—highlight a preference for characters that can influence the game's flow, whether through commanding team fights or securing crucial objectives.
Interestingly, despite Azir being Faker's most-played champion, he has yet to secure a Worlds winning skin with him, a nod to the depth of SKT's roster and the variety of champions that have contributed to their successes.
As the esports community looks forward to the World Championship at the end of September, all eyes will be on Faker and T1. The possibility of Faker locking in his 79th unique pick adds an exciting layer of anticipation to the tournament. With new champions being introduced regularly, the potential for surprise picks and innovative strategies is higher than ever, promising a thrilling showcase of talent and creativity.
Faker's journey through League of Legends's roster is more than just a quest for records; it's a testament to a career built on adaptation, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to being the best. As he nears the milestone of playing over half the game's champions in professional settings, his legacy as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, professional League of Legends players ever, continues to grow.
