What pricing model has League of Legends used since release?

League of Legends has used a free-to-play pricing model since its release.

Riot Games launched League of Legends in North America and Europe on October 27, 2009, without requiring players to buy the game or pay a recurring subscription. This model helped Riot build a large player base while supporting the game through optional purchases.

The business model centers on cosmetic content such as champion skins, emotes, ward designs, and other customization items. Players can also unlock champions through gameplay currencies and progression, although the exact systems have changed over the years.

Free-to-play does not mean that every item is free, nor does it mean the game has no revenue. It means access to the core game is free, while optional purchases support ongoing development. Shareware, pay-to-play, and subscription models do not describe League’s standard PC release model.