UPDATE: Riot Games has just announced thrilling new details about the upcoming expansion, Riftbound: Spiritforged, set to launch in English on February 13, 2026. This eagerly awaited release follows its debut in China on December 12, 2025, and promises to elevate the gameplay experience for fans across North America, Latin America, EMEA, and Oceania.
The expansion will introduce twelve Champion Legends, including fan favorites like Rek’Sai, Draven, and Irelia. Players can look forward to new gameplay mechanics that will change the landscape of the game, featuring Equipment, Gold, and Repeat spells. Equipment cards can be attached to units, remaining active even if the unit is defeated, while Gold tokens provide flexible power generation tied to champions like Draven and Renata Glasc. Repeat spells allow players to amplify their strategies by paying a card’s cost a second time.
Riot Games has emphasized the blend of steelwork themes with the mystical elements of Ionia’s Spirit Blossom universe, enhancing both card design and champion identities. This expansion not only introduces engaging gameplay but also expands collectability, showcasing Spirit Blossom-themed alternate art and adding 30 Overnumbered cards alongside 12 Champion Units.
At the recent PAX Unplugged event, Riot revealed additional previews, including Signature variants for select Overnumbered cards and new cross-set synergies between Riftbound: Spiritforged and Origins. According to game director Dave Guskin, the team has integrated community feedback from the Origins launch to refine this new expansion.
Looking ahead, Riot confirmed the next three Riftbound sets for 2026: Unleashed in May, Vendettas in Q3, and Radiance later in the year. Unleashed will introduce new Champion Legends such as Vi, Rengar, and Master Yi, while Vendettas will explore rivalries featuring champions like Akali and Ambessa.
For competitive players, Riot has announced a series of Regional Qualifiers kicking off in Houston, Texas, from December 5–7. Follow-up events will take place in Bologna, Italy, from February 20–22, and Las Vegas from February 27 to March 1. Riot plans to conduct a total of 12 Regional Qualifiers throughout 2026, with more details to be released soon.
Guskin stated,
“We learned a tremendous amount from how players engaged with Origins. Spiritforged builds on that foundation with new Champion Legends, new mechanics, and even greater collectability. We can’t wait to see what players create next.”
With this exciting expansion on the horizon, players are eager to dive into the rich new content and competitive opportunities. Stay tuned for more updates as launch dates approach!
