Following his introduction in comics and cinematics, Zaahen will make his way into League of Legends as a playable champion.
Zaahen is a Darkin who turned against his own kind during the Great Darkin War. Although he chose to fight alongside mortals, he was ultimately sealed away, volunteering to be contained after witnessing the corruption that consumed his fallen siblings.
Sensing an opportunity, LeBlanc attempted to claim his weapon for her own schemes, enslaving the Atakhan to track him down. But her plan didn’t unfold as expected. Now, Zaahen emerges in an entirely new form, ready to enter League of Legends in 2026.
The Great Darkin War
The Great Darkin War stands as one of the most pivotal events in League of Legends lore. This ancient conflict erupted between the Darkin and the remaining mortal populace of Runeterra, supported by the celestial Aspects. The war caused immense devastation, and by its end, mortals and the Aspects had destroyed or forcibly sealed away nearly all the Darkin to prevent further catastrophe.
During this war, Zaahen was among the Darkin who were eventually sealed away, but not for the reasons you might expect. Unlike his brethren, Zaahen fought against the Darkin, standing with Ionia in defense of humanity. But before we dive deeper into his role in the conflict, let’s take a closer look at who this warrior truly is.
Who is Zaahen?
Zaahen was born in Shurima, where he rose through the ranks as a revered warrior before eventually ascending into an eagle-like celestial form. When the Shuriman Empire collapsed, he remained one of the few who retained both his sanity and his benevolent nature. Guided by his wisdom, Zaahen journeyed to the First Lands to support the growing resistance, crossing paths with Yunara and Kennen along the way.
When the war came to an end, Zaahen was brought before the Eye of Twilight to be judged. They recognized his loyalty, sacrifice, and the vital role he played in protecting humanity, granting him the right to return to his homeland. Yet, despite their approval, Zaahen feared the destructive potential of his true Darkin form. Fearing that he might one day lose control and spark another conflict, he chose to be sealed away willingly. Yunara stayed with him to protect the Temple for all time.
LeBlanc and Atakhan
Alongside the 2025 season, Riot Games introduced some new pieces of lore, including Atakhan, which is now an epic monster in Summoner's Rift. Centuries later, LeBlanc decided to claim Zaahen's weapon and used Atakhan to locate him. Intruders had breached the temple, and Xin Zhao, Yunara, and Kennen realized Zaahen could awaken at any moment.
Upon entering the temple, both Yunara and Xin must face the Trials of Twilight, a series of tests designed to judge the strength of those who enter. During his trial, Xin experiences a haunting vision of Demacia in ruins, with Jarvan IV corrupted by the Darkins (Prestige Visions of the Fallen Jarvan IV skin).
But it was already too late. LeBlanc had claimed Zaahen’s weapon, which was now fused with Atakhan. The duo attempted to overpower the monstrous entity, but their efforts were in vain. In his final moments, Xin Zhao reached out to Zaahen, reminding him of the sacrifices he had once made to protect the world and urging him to do the same once more.
Answering this final plea, Zaahen returned, taking Xin Zhao as his host and obliterating Atakhan with a single strike. LeBlanc had to retreat for now.
Zaahen revealed during LoL Worlds 2025
Although Zaahen was first introduced through comics and cinematics, fans finally got a glimpse of him in-game during the League of Legends (LoL) Worlds 2025 Grand Finals. After the conclusion of the second match, Riot revealed his in-game model and showcased his kit for the first time, giving players an exciting look at how he will play once he officially arrives.
Zaahen will join the game as a top-lane champion, scheduled for release in LoL patch 25.23 on Nov. 19.
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