Riot Games' vast League of Legends universe has left a significant mark not just in gaming, but also in pop culture. After the phenomenal success of Arcane, fans are eagerly wondering what other stories and characters from this rich world could make their way to the screen. So, what might follow Arcane? Here are some exciting possibilities:
1. Bilgewater: Pirates, Vengeance, and Deep-Sea Mysteries
Bilgewater is a dangerous port city, home to ruthless pirates, monster hunters, and eldritch horrors lurking beneath the waves. A series based here could explore:
Miss Fortune's Revenge: Sarah Fortune, a sharpshooter and Bilgewater’s de facto leader, seeks vengeance against the pirate king Gangplank, who murdered her family. The story could follow her rise to power and the personal cost of her quest for justice.
Gangplank’s Return: After being betrayed and left for dead, Gangplank could emerge from the shadows to reclaim his throne. His vendetta against Miss Fortune would set the stage for intense power struggles.
Pyke’s Dark Mission: As the Bloodharbor Ripper, Pyke haunts Bilgewater’s underworld, hunting those who wronged him. His storyline could bring supernatural horror to the series, introducing the dark forces of the deep that drive him.
Nautilus and the Void Threat: Nautilus, a titan of the deep, could tie Bilgewater’s story to the larger League of Legends universe by introducing Voidborn horrors lurking beneath the ocean. A Bilgewater series could culminate in a fight for survival against ancient sea monsters.
2. Ionia: War, Redemption, and Spiritual Mysticism
Ionia is a land torn between its peaceful traditions and the scars of war. A series here could blend action and philosophy, focusing on:
Yasuo’s Redemption Arc: Yasuo, a wandering swordsman wrongly accused of killing his master, struggles to forgive himself and find his purpose. His interactions with his brother Yone, now a spirit of vengeance, could bring emotional weight to the story.
Zed and Shen’s Rivalry: The complex history between Zed, the shadow warrior, and Shen, the leader of the Kinkou Order, offers fertile ground for a tale of betrayal, loyalty, and the balance between light and darkness.
Irelia’s Fight for Freedom: Irelia leads a rebellion against Noxian invaders, showcasing her journey from a young dancer to a fierce warrior. This storyline could provide epic battles and heartfelt moments of sacrifice.
The Vastayan Mystics: Exploring the magical beings of Ionia, such as Ahri, a fox-like Vastaya seeking her humanity, or Rakan and Xayah, rebel lovers fighting to protect their people, could add a mystical and romantic layer to the series.
3. Noxus: Intrigue, Power, and the Weight of Empire
Noxus is an empire built on conquest and ambition. Its characters and politics are rife with potential for a drama filled with twists and turns. A Noxus series could include:
Swain’s Rise to Power: Swain, the visionary leader of Noxus, uses cunning and dark magic to consolidate his rule. The series could delve into his mysterious connection to demonic forces and his vision of an unstoppable empire.
Darius and Draven’s Brotherhood: The relationship between the no-nonsense general Darius and his flamboyant brother Draven could highlight the personal struggles within the Noxian war machine.
Riven’s Exile: Riven, a disillusioned soldier, seeks redemption after abandoning the Noxian army. Her journey through self-discovery and confrontation with her past could provide an emotional anchor.
LeBlanc and the Black Rose: The shadowy cabal known as the Black Rose manipulates events behind the scenes. A storyline featuring LeBlanc could reveal the secrets of Noxus’ dark underbelly.
4. Freljord: Ancient Myths and Power Struggles
The frozen wilderness of Freljord is steeped in myth and legend. A series here could explore the rivalry between three powerful leaders:
Ashe’s Vision for Unity: Ashe, the warmother of the Avarosan tribe, dreams of uniting the fractured Freljord. Her journey of leadership, love, and sacrifice could provide a poignant narrative.
Sejuani’s Fierce Resistance: As the leader of the Winter’s Claw, Sejuani opposes Ashe’s vision. Her story could highlight the harsh realities of survival in the icy wastes and her tribe’s struggle to retain their independence.
Lissandra’s Dark Secrets: The Ice Witch Lissandra guards ancient horrors buried beneath the ice. Her storyline could intertwine with the Void, revealing her sinister role in the Freljord’s history.
Trundle, the Troll King: A comedic yet dangerous character, Trundle’s rise to power could provide a fresh perspective on Freljord’s struggles.
5. Piltover and Zaun: Expanding Arcane’s World
A return to Piltover and Zaun could expand on Arcane’s foundation, introducing new characters and conflicts:
Ekko’s Time-Bending Fight: Ekko, the boy genius with control over time, could take center stage. His efforts to protect Zaun from the darker forces at play would make for a thrilling and heartfelt adventure.
Viktor’s Transformation: Viktor’s evolution into the Machine Herald could explore themes of humanity, innovation, and the cost of progress.
Camille’s Hunt for Justice: Camille, an elegant enforcer of Piltover, could lead a noir-inspired story filled with espionage and morally gray decisions.
The Undercity’s Revolt: A story focused on the brewing rebellion in Zaun, led by characters like Warwick and Singed, could add a gritty and emotional layer to the Piltover-Zaun dynamic.
Final Thoughts
The League of Legends universe is a treasure trove of stories waiting to be told. From the mystical lands of Ionia to the frozen tundras of Freljord, each region offers a unique setting and cast of characters. With Arcane setting the stage, Riot Games has the potential to create a cinematic universe as vast and beloved as its source material.
Which of these stories would you like to see next? Let the speculation begin!