Riot Games Expands PCS Ecosystem to Include League of Legends Japan League (LJL)

In a remarkable move, Riot Games has announced the inclusion of the League of Legends Japan League (LJL) in its Pacific Championship Series (PCS) ecosystem. This decision comes as part of Riot’s continued efforts to strengthen League of Legends esports throughout the Asia Pacific region.

The addition of LJL to the PCS comes on the heels of the previous integration of the League of Legends Circuit Oceania (LCO) earlier this year, after Riot Games ceased providing direct seeding in international tournaments to the Oceania region.

“The inclusion of LJL marks another step in our multi-year strategy to enrich the competitive League esports ecosystem in the Asia Pacific region,” said a Riot Games spokesperson in an official statement.

LJL is joining the PCS ecosystem, like the LCO did start of 2023.

If LJL wants to qualify for MSI/Worlds they'll have to struggle vs PCS teams in playoffs. Which in reality just isn't going to happen and kill regional interest like whats been happening in OCE. https://t.co/7aQbH5soFc

— Barento (@razlol) November 27, 2023

Details on the Inclusion of LJL into the PCS Ecosystem

Riot Games has outlined key principles for the developments in the Pacific Championship Series, including plans to:

• Build a unified, Pacific league that aims to become a global powerhouse in the League of Legends Esports ecosystem.

• Enhance fan experience with quality broadcast products, available in English, Japanese, Mandarin, and Cantonese.

• Provide diverse matchups between existing PCS, LJL, and LCO teams.

• Create a more sustainable esports ecosystem.

With this move, LJL players will now be considered residents of the PCS, allowing them to join any team within the PCS ecosystem without being labeled as an “import.” However, LJL teams must maintain at least three Japanese players on their rosters.

Despite the integration, the LJL will still play its domestic season in Japan for 2024. Upon completion, the top three teams from the LJL will seed into the PCS Playoffs, competing with other PCS and LCO teams for spots in international events like the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) and Worlds.

The Impacts on the PCS and the Future of Competitive Gaming in Japan

This decision opens up new opportunities for the LJL teams and players, providing them broader exposure and granting them the ability to compete with some of the best in the Asia Pacific region.

Naoki Ogata, the founder of LJL team DetonatioN Gaming, expressed his excitement about the opportunities for Japanese players and teams. “We wholeheartedly appreciate Riot Games’ efforts to continuously improve the League of Legends esports ecosystem in Japan and the Asia Pacific region. We believe this integration into the PCS will have a significant positive impact on the growth of our region’s competitive scene.”

Fans can expect thrilling face-offs and diverse gameplay as teams from different regions compete for the coveted international spots, further enhancing the cryptocurrency gaming experience in the Asia Pacific region.

It is an exciting time for competitive gaming in Japan and the surrounding regions as Riot Games takes the necessary steps to create a stronger and more sustainable competitive League of Legends esports ecosystem in the Asia Pacific area.