A patch in League of Legends is an update to the game files that introduces modifications and improvements. These updates typically contain several key components:

Core Patch Elements:

• New content (champions, items, skins)
• Balance adjustments to champions
• Bug fixes and gameplay improvements
• Client and backend technical updates
• Official patch notes documenting all changes

Patch Numbering System: Patches follow a numerical format (e.g., 14.1, 14.2) where:

• First number represents the season
• Second number indicates the patch sequence within that season

Patch Release Cycle:

• Regular patches typically release every two weeks
• Smaller hotfix patches may deploy between major updates
• PBE (Public Beta Environment) receives patches for testing before live release

Types of Patches:

1. Major Patches: Substantial updates with new features
2. Minor Patches: Balance changes and bug fixes
3. Hotfixes: Emergency fixes for critical issues
4. Preseason Patches: Large-scale game changes between seasons

Since League's launch in 2009, patches have evolved from simple balance updates to comprehensive game modifications that shape the meta and player experience. Each season brings significant changes through patches, helping maintain game balance and introducing fresh content for players.

The current patch system maintains League of Legends' competitive integrity while ensuring regular content updates and improvements for its global player base.

[Editor's note: The original content included a large number of patch version numbers and dates which have been condensed for clarity and relevance, focusing instead on the key information about patches that would be most useful to readers.]

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