According to Riot Games’ announced schedule, this year League of Legends fans will definitely see two champions, Dr. Mundo and Udyr, get a full rework. There might also be a few more champs getting changes in the second half of 2021.
While the goal of these reworks is to make the champions more popular, the results don’t always meet expectations. In fact, the fate of reworked champions has become more unpredictable. Some end up boring or too weak to play, while others turn into overpowered monsters that get picked constantly.
Here are some notable examples. Take a look and see if you agree!
Aatrox

Since his rework, Aatrox has gone through constant buffs and nerfs but remains a hot pick in the meta. By 2021, he’s like a beast with wings, fully benefiting from new item features. Many players even call him a “broken champ” that must be banned due to his overwhelming power when combined with Bloodthirster and Ravenous Hydra.

Udyr

Udyr’s story is pretty ironic. After being absent for many seasons, with only one pro pick in season 10, he suddenly became a hot pick in 2021. Fans even voted for his rework, which is now in the works.
Fiddlesticks

While some champions adapt well to new items, others like Fiddlesticks get left behind. He was reworked in April last year and became a hot pick in ranked and pro play. But this year, he’s disappeared from the meta, with no pro picks and very little ranked play. The only mode where Fiddlesticks still shines is ARAM.
Pantheon

Pantheon is considered pretty balanced. He’s neither too strong nor too weak and can be played in almost every role except ADC. His place in the meta hasn’t shifted much despite the new season’s item changes.
Nunu

Since his rework, Nunu has become a fun pick mostly used for trolling in ranked games rather than serious pro play. Even when he’s brought into competitive matches, it’s only in lower-tier tournaments, never the big leagues.

Swain

Swain seems to have a very short shelf life in League. After his 2018 rework, he was popular for about a year. But since summer 2019, he’s been gathering dust in the pro scene and doesn’t hold much presence in ranked play either.