No doubt some of you have tried to teach a friend to play League and some of those friends catch on more quickly than others.  I have had several friends try to teach me to play League and they all have had different advice for me.  So, I thought I would write a small list of the do’s and do not’s when you try to teach a friend how to play League of Legends.

Do not’s

Do not get angry with them

 Although this is obvious, some people forget how difficult it was the first time they played.  We all have to start from ground zero, so be patient.

Do not let them play against people first

I am guilty of this; I always wanted to play against people thinking it would be easier to pick up. Plus I had someone with me who knew how to play the game so I thought I would be invincible.  Unfortunately, their skill did not transfer over to me so I would get owned each time.

Focus on their gameplay not your own

 It can be hard drawing focus away from you own play, but remember they are new and they need a lot of guidance.  Also they might feel left behind if you are off making plays on your own.

Play with them for multiple games – don’t go solo yet:

If you have the patience and kindness in order to play with your friend for multiple games it will help immensely.  They will start remembering what to do and when. Plus it helps gain confidence having someone in game that you know can help on the spot.  The practice is necessary.

Do’s

Explain the different types of champions

You may think that they are not paying attention when you do this.   But this is very vital to your friend getting into League.  You want to make sure they are picking the type of Champion they want to play, not you.

Ping where you want them to go

Remember that you have played this game an astronomical amount more than your friend. When you say go to the bush, ping the bush you want your friend to go to. By you pinging it helps them to remember where it is.

Don’t overwhelm them with information

 I have had some friends try to tell me everything about strategy the first game and it is too overwhelming.  I did find some of the strategy vital to me learning the game, so just tell them the obvious things.  Remember that information overload occurs and the people don’t process anything after this.

Point out things they do well

 If they do something that is good tell them.  It makes them feel better about themselves as a player and will help them improve quicker and not get discouraged.

Final Thoughts

Even though I am not a huge League player I hope this helps those of you who are trying to teach your friends.   Give your friends a break.  My experiences with all of my friends who have tried to teach me have been unique and I have learned something different each time. This short list is a great start to getting someone started in League.  Hopefully these suggestions will not only help you but help your friends learn League as well.

Sincerely,

DowJ (Richard)

Edited by Barttpwnz (Grant)