Picture this: it's 2026, and after years of waiting, the League of Legends MMORPG is finally here. The world of Runeterra, once confined to lanes and team fights, is now sprawling, breathing, and begging to be explored. But what truly brings a world to life? It's the people—or, in this case, the non-playable characters—who populate it. While we're all eager to see our favorite champions, it's the recurring side characters, the unsung heroes and tragic figures of the lore, who could steal the show as unforgettable NPCs. These are the faces that would make the world feel lived-in, the quest-givers with stories that go beyond "kill ten wolves." Let's meet the dream team of NPCs that Riot's passion project simply can't do without.

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Cithria of Cloudfield: From Recruit to Legend

First up, we've got to talk about Cithria. I mean, come on, she's basically the poster child for NPC greatness. Her journey is the perfect MMO character arc in the making. She started as a wide-eyed kid from a tiny town, got lost in the big city of Demacia, and then... well, she decided to join the army. Talk about a career change! Through Legends of Runeterra, we've watched her grow up right before our eyes:

  • Cithria of Cloudfield: The rookie, all nerves and determination.

  • Vanguard Squire: Getting her hands dirty, learning the ropes.

  • Cithria the Bold: A proven soldier, earning her stripes.

  • Cithria, Lady of Clouds: A full-blown elite in the Dauntless Vanguard, rubbing shoulders with Garen himself.

In the MMORPG, she could be our guide through Demacia's military complex. Imagine starting as a fresh recruit under her command for early quests, and later, as you both gain renown, fighting alongside her in the elite units. Her progression mirrors the player's own journey—it's a no-brainer!

Isolde's Ghost: Time for Her Side of the Story

Alright, let's address the spectral elephant in the room: the whole Ruination saga. A lot of folks found Viego and Isolde's "love at first sight" story a bit... cheesy. And Isolde kinda just went along with a king who was letting his kingdom go to ruin for her? She wasn't dumb, so what gives?

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This is where the MMORPG could be her chance to set the record straight. Isolde's ghost would be a phenomenal NPC. Players could find her fragmented spirit in the Shadow Isles or other haunted locales. She could finally explain herself:

  • Why did she stay with Viego?

  • What was going through her mind when her spirit stabbed him?

  • How does she feel about Gwen, the living embodiment of her love and creativity?

She's connected to so many key figures—Viego, Gwen, Senna, Lucian, Yorick—that she'd be a central lore hub. Let her defend herself, Riot! The community needs to hear it from her.

Commander Ledros: A Love Story in the Mist

The Shadow Isles is just packed with NPC potential, honestly. It's the perfect zone for creepy atmosphere, respawning undead mobs, and ghostly exposition dumps. And no ghost has more to say than Commander Ledros.

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His story is a tragic mirror to Viego's. He also fell in love at first sight with Kalista, but she wasn't having it—duty first. Now, as specters bound by the Black Mist, their goals have diverged. Kalista seeks vengeance, while Ledros just wants to cleanse the Mist so maybe, just maybe, Kalista might remember him and his love. How heartbreaking is that? He'd be an amazing NPC for quests about understanding the Mist, searching for lost memories, or even trying to find a moment of peace in eternal torment. The guy deserves a break.

Nunyo Necrit: The Ultimate Lore Librarian

This one is just pure, unadulterated fan service, and it's brilliant. Necrit, the legendary LoL lore YouTuber, is already a canon character named Nunyo Necrit in Ruined King. He's a former advisor to Camavor who now haunts the Shadow Isles, dumping lore on anyone who will listen. Perfect.

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In the MMORPG, he could be the go-to guy. Stuck on a quest about ancient Shuriman history? Go ask Necrit. Confused about the political intrigue between Noxian houses? Necrit's got a three-hour lecture ready. He'd be the living (well, undead) codex, a fun nod to the community, and a practical way to deliver deep-cut lore. Players would love finding him in a dusty library or a haunted ruin, just waiting to explain everything.

Tyari, the Traveler: A Guide to the Summit

For those who climbed the ranks in Legends of Runeterra, Tyari's story is a beautiful one. A member of Targon's Rakkor tribe who felt out of place, they undertook the epic climb up Mount Targon and ascended to become the Aspect of the Traveler. Yeah, they're probably destined to be a champion someday, but until then, the MMORPG is the perfect place for their story to unfold.

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Imagine a story arc where you, the player, attempt the climb alongside Tyari. They could be your guide, your companion, showing you the hidden paths and celestial mysteries of the mountain. Through them, we could learn what the "Aspect of the Traveler" actually does. Do they guide lost souls? Chart unknown realms? The potential for exploration-based quests and mind-bending Targon lore is huge. It's a journey we need to take with them.

The Poro King: Fluffy Royalty of the Freljord

NO LIST IS COMPLETE WITHOUT POROS. These adorable, heart-bellied fluffballs are Runeterra's greatest gift. And who rules over this empire of cuteness? The Poro King, of course!

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While we still don't have a Poro champion (Riot, please), the Poro King is the next best thing. Encountering his fluffy majesty while trekking through the frozen wastes of the Freljord would be an instant highlight. Is he a quest-giver? A rare world boss protected by a thousand poros? The proprietor of a warm, hidden lodge where you can rest? He would instantly add charm, humor, and heart to one of Runeterra's harshest regions. Integrating poros into the world through their king is just... it's what the people want.

Gregor & The Hermit: Shopkeeps with Secrets

Finally, let's hear it for the OG shopkeeps. Anyone who's spent time on the Howling Abyss knows Gregor, the blue-side spirit waiting to sound his horn against the Frozen Watchers, and the Hermit, the red-side scholar from Piltover.

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In an MMORPG, these two could be so much more than vendors. Finding them at the Frostguard Citadel or another ancient Freljord location would be a fantastic callback. Gregor could offer quests about ancient threats and True Ice relics. The Hermit, with his scholarly curiosity, could send players on expeditions to uncover historical secrets. They're familiar faces with deep, untapped backstories—perfect for making the world feel connected.

So there you have it. When the doors to the Runeterra MMORPG finally swing open in 2026, it won't just be about the champions. It'll be about the Cithrias, the Isoldes, the Ledroses, and yes, even the Poro Kings. These are the characters that can turn a great game world into a home. Fingers crossed Riot's got the same dream team in mind. 🤞