Riot Games has made major changes to its Terms of Service (ToS) for
VALORANT and League of Legends, with the changes to come into force on
January 3, 2025. These updates bring new and harsher measures for players and content creators, covering topics from behavior outside the game to sponsors. Below are the changes and their implications for the esports and streaming population.
Off-Platform Conduct Now Under Scrutiny
For the first time, Riot Games’ ToS will cover the players’ behavior outside of the game. This means that any wrongdoing during a live stream or while Riot products are visible in the background may now lead to action against the player’s account.
Earlier, streamers could not be punished for using obscene language or acting aggressively during the stream. However, from January 3, 2025, viewers will be able to report such behavior on Riot’s official website. This change is a part of Riot’s efforts to make the gaming community a better place and to ensure that players are penalized not only within the game but also on streams.
Sweep against Sponsored Promotions
Riot Games is also targeting unethical sponsorships, especially those that are associated with account boosting or selling and buying of accounts. While the developer has long banned individual players caught boosting accounts in VALORANT, the new ToS will also target streamers.
Those who advertise such services can be banned for life from using the platform and their content removed. This is expected to discourage brands from linking their image with services that compromise the competitiveness of Riot’s games. If streamers feel that they have been unfairly suspended under these new rules, they can appeal for an account review, but Riot seems to be unyielding on this issue.
Stream Sniping Targeted
The new ToS also addresses the issue of stream sniping, a form of cheating where a player uses a streamer’s live feed to his/her advantage. In the new rules, stream sniping is confirmed to lead to account bans for the players involved in the act.
Although these bans will need a lot of evidence, Riot Games has stated that the repercussions could go beyond League of Legends. For instance, if a VALORANT player is caught stream sniping, they may be punished in other games such as League of Legends. This interconnected penalty system supports Riot’s policy of not tolerating unsportsmanlike conduct.
Top-tier League of Legends betting sites are just a click away. Explore our comprehensive list of platforms that provide excellent odds, secure transactions, and enticing bonuses. Perfect your betting strategy and enjoy a seamless LoL betting adventure!