Vel’Koz is getting a VFX update ahead of possible Void event

There will be a Vel’Koz VFX update in League of Legends before the upcoming in-game Void world event.

The Vel’Koz visual effects update will arrive in time for 12.3’s PBE patch, where it will make the rounds ahead of a live server release. This is one of many champions to receive a visual refresher in recent months, joining Syndra, Malzahar, and Zilean.

Is the Vel’Koz VFX update preceding a Void event?

There is speculation abound that Riot Games is setting up for Void invasion event in League of Legends. Between a variety of short stories setting up the season 12 cinematic, the cinematic itself, and some teases in promotional material, it’s seeming more likely. While Riot is certainly prioritizing older champions, three of their recent VFX update champions are tied to the Void in one way or another.

Zilean, Malzahar, and Vel’Koz all have lore ties with the Void and updating these champions makes a lot of sense, especially if it means the return of the PvE Invasion game mode. Star Guardian, the skin line that originally showcase the game mode, will also be returning. The confluence of all of these contextual clues, as well as Runeterra’s need for a new world-ending threat.

The VFX will clear up some of his hitboxes, while also adding a more modern void aesthetic to his abilities. The aesthetic update seems just as important as the gameplay repercussions. It doesn’t seem like a coincidence that so many of League’s otherworldly roster are getting visual effects updates.

Is Invasion coming back?

One big question, in a year that looks to include both Star Guardian and a Void event, is whether the Invasion PvE game mode will return. It’s been years since League of Legends had a dedicated PvE mode, and Riot has been hesitant to commit substantial resources to support them long term. The conditions seem prime for it to happen, but nothing is for certain until it’s announced.