Gameplay
Teamfight Tactics (TFT) is an auto battler game where eight players compete in a series of rounds, constructing teams of champions to battle one another. The objective is to be the last player standing. Players strategically place units on a hexagonal battlefield, and during each round, these units automatically fight opponents' teams. Players can acquire champions through a shared draft system and by purchasing them with in-game currency. Champions can be upgraded by collecting multiple copies of the same unit, enhancing their abilities and effectiveness in combat. Additionally, players can equip champions with items that provide various bonuses and effects, further influencing the outcome of battles.
Development and Release
TFT was developed by Riot Games as a spinoff of their popular title, League of Legends. The game was inspired by the Dota Auto Chess mod and was released within the League of Legends client for Windows and macOS on June 26, 2019. A standalone version for Android and iOS was launched on March 19, 2020, featuring cross-platform play between them. By September 2019, TFT had over 33 million monthly players with 1.72 billion hours of accumulated game time. (en.wikipedia.org)
Sets and Updates
Riot Games supports TFT with regular updates and introduces new content through "sets." Each set brings a new theme, rotating various League of Legends champions into the roster, and introduces new traits, items, and mechanics. This approach keeps the gameplay fresh and encourages players to adapt their strategies. Notably, Set 10, which ran from November 2023 to March 2024, featured the game's first music-themed set. (qa.philstar.com)
Game Modes
In addition to the standard game mode, TFT offers several alternative modes to cater to different player preferences. "Hyper Roll," introduced in April 2021, is a faster-paced mode that streamlines mechanics to decrease game time. In early 2022, Riot Games released "Double Up," a mode where teams of two players compete against other pairs, sharing a health bar and assisting each other during matches. (en.wikipedia.org)
Competitive Scene
TFT has established a presence in the esports scene, with Riot Games organizing official tournaments and championships that attract professional players and teams worldwide. The inclusion of TFT in the League of Legends Championship Series has further solidified its position as a competitive game. (irontoradiant.com)
Community Engagement and Future Prospects
Riot Games actively engages with the TFT community, seeking feedback and implementing regular updates to improve the game. They introduce new champions, traits, and synergies, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting. The development team also introduces ranked seasons and a battle pass system to reward dedicated players and maintain engagement. As TFT continues to grow in popularity, Riot Games plans to expand the game by adding new champion sets, creative gameplay elements, and deeper ties to the League of Legends universe. (irontoradiant.com)