League of Legends (LoL) boosting has become a popular yet controversial service within the gaming community. Boosting involves skilled players helping others climb the ranked ladder quickly, often through various means such as playing on their account or alongside them. However, many myths and misconceptions surround LoL boosting. In this article, we will debunk five common myths about LoL boosting, providing clarity and insight into the practice.
Myth 1: Boosting Is Always Illegal and Will Get You Banned
One of the most widespread myths is that all boosting activities are illegal and will inevitably result in a ban. While Riot Games, the developer of LoL, does have strict rules against account sharing and boosting, not all forms of boosting are treated equally. The reality is more nuanced:
Debunking the Myth:
- Solo Queue Boosting Risks: Direct account sharing and Solo Queue boosting do carry a high risk of detection and account suspension. Riot Games actively monitors for suspicious activity and punishes accounts involved in blatant boosting.
- Duo Queue Boosting Safety: Duo Queue boosting, where the customer and booster play together without account sharing, is much safer. While it may be frowned upon, it is harder to detect and less likely to result in punitive action.
- Coaching: Coaching, where skilled players offer guidance and strategy advice without playing on the customer’s account, is perfectly legal and encouraged as a means to improve one’s skills.
Myth 2: Boosting Is Only for Inexperienced Players
Another common misconception is that boosting services are exclusively used by inexperienced or low-skill players who cannot climb the ranks on their own. This myth undermines the diverse motivations behind why players seek boosting services.
Debunking the Myth:
- Time Constraints: Many players are skilled but lack the time required to grind through ranked games due to personal or professional commitments. Boosting offers a way to achieve their desired rank without the time investment.
- Higher Rank Goals: Some experienced players may use boosting to quickly return to their previous high ranks at the start of a new season or after a prolonged absence from the game.
- Learning and Improvement: Boosting, especially in the form of Duo Queue or coaching, can be a learning experience where players observe and learn from more skilled players.
Myth 3: Boosting Ruins the Game for Everyone
There is a prevalent belief that boosting has a universally negative impact on the game, leading to unbalanced matches and a poor experience for other players. While boosting can affect match quality, the extent of its impact is often exaggerated.
Debunking the Myth:
- Temporary Impact: The impact of boosting is usually temporary. Once a boosted player stops using the service, their rank tends to stabilize as they play more games and settle into their true skill level.
- Matchmaking System: The LoL matchmaking system is designed to adjust and adapt, ensuring that over time, players find themselves in matches that reflect their actual skill level.
- Not All Boosters: Boosting does not necessarily lead to disruptive gameplay. Skilled boosters often play to win and contribute positively to their team, which can enhance the gaming experience for others in the match.
Myth 4: Boosting Is Expensive and Only for the Wealthy
The assumption that boosting services are prohibitively expensive and only accessible to wealthy players is another misconception. In reality, the cost of boosting varies widely and can be accessible to a broader range of players.
Debunking the Myth:
- Variety of Services: Boosting services come in various forms and price ranges, from budget-friendly options like coaching and low-tier boosts to premium services for high-tier ranks.
- Competitive Market: The boosting market is competitive, leading to a range of prices and packages that cater to different budgets. Many services offer discounts, promotions, and flexible payment plans.
- Cost vs. Time: For some players, the cost of boosting is justified by the time saved. Instead of spending countless hours grinding ranks, they can achieve their desired rank quickly and focus on other aspects of life or gaming.
Myth 5: Boosting Always Leads to Permanent Bans
A common fear among potential customers is that using boosting services will result in a permanent ban of their account. While the risk of penalties does exist, permanent bans are not always the outcome.
Debunking the Myth:
- First Offenses: Riot Games often implements temporary suspensions or rank resets for first-time offenders caught using boosting services, rather than issuing permanent bans immediately.
- Severity of Violation: The severity of the punishment depends on the extent of the violation. Accounts engaged in blatant and repeated boosting are more likely to face harsher penalties.
- Appeal Process: Players who believe they were wrongfully punished have the option to appeal the decision. Riot Games reviews each case individually, providing an opportunity for fair resolution.
Conclusion
LoL boosting is a complex and multifaceted practice that is often misunderstood. By debunking these common myths, we hope to provide a clearer understanding of what boosting entails and the reasons behind its use. While boosting does carry risks and ethical considerations, it is not as one-dimensional as many players believe. Ultimately, informed decisions and responsible use of boosting services can help players enhance their gaming experience in League of Legends.
