The Oracle of Demacia: An Arcane UX Research

Introduction

In 2022, after connecting with a Riot Games recruiter, I was inspired to conduct an independent UX Research study on League of Legends—a game that boasts one of the largest online communities and most competitive environments in esports.

While I was no longer an active player at the time, my history with League of Legends runs deep. Growing up, I experienced the full spectrum of what Summoner's Rift had to offer: from sharing unforgettable moments with friends to engaging in intense matches that pushed my competitive skills to new limits. However, I also witnessed the darker side of online gaming, where anonymity sometimes brings out toxic behavior in the community. These experiences gave me a unique perspective, having felt both the exhilarating highs of victory and the frustrating lows of negative player interactions.

The core focus of this UX Research study was to address one of League of Legends' most persistent challenges: player behavior and toxicity. Specifically, I aimed to understand and propose solutions for players who, despite facing multiple punishment cycles and account bans from Riot Games, continued to exhibit disruptive behavior and failed to develop respect for their fellow community.

Subject in Analysis: The Code of Conduct

Summary & Objective

How psychology and blockchain concepts can help in the implementation of a new system of good behavior through a new character/entity that can organically improve the health of gameplay, teamwork and conduct of players in the rift while also enriching the game's lore consumption.

UX Research & Analysis

References

(1)The Code of Conduct (https://www.leagueoflegends.com/en-us/event/league-of-legends-code-of-conduct/)

(2)Behavioural Patterns (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12304-013-9186-4)

(3)Blockchain Oracle (https://chain.link/education/blockchain-oracles)

(4)The Oracle of Delphi (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pythia)

(5)Visual Reference for The Oracle of Demacia (https://www.artstation.com/artwork/4Xloal)

(6)Endogenous Trust (https://docs.themelio.org/basic-concepts/01-endogenous-trust/)

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