How to Chat in Game League of Legends

Mastering communication in League of Legends is as crucial as mastering your champion’s abilities. Knowing how to chat effectively can be the difference between a coordinated victory and a frustrating defeat. This guide will cover everything you need to know about in-game chat in League of Legends, from basic commands to advanced strategies for clear communication.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Chat Box

League of Legends offers several chat channels to communicate with your team and opponents. The main chat box, located at the bottom left corner of the screen, provides access to these channels. Understanding how each one functions is essential for effective communication.

Team Chat

Team chat is your primary means of communicating with your allies. Use it to share information about enemy positions, coordinate ganks, plan objectives, and offer encouragement. Clear and concise communication here is key to successful teamwork.

Allied Chat ( /all chat )

Allied chat allows you to communicate with both your team and the enemy team. While traditionally used for friendly banter or sportsmanlike conduct, it can sometimes be misused for taunting or BM (bad manners). Use it wisely and respectfully. Remember, positive communication can sometimes turn the tide of a match!

Whispers ( /w or /msg summonername )

Whispers are private messages sent to a specific player, either on your team or the opposing team. They are useful for discreetly sharing information, coordinating strategies with junglers, or offering advice to a struggling teammate without revealing it to the enemy team.

Essential Chat Commands and Shortcuts

League of Legends provides a variety of chat commands and shortcuts to streamline communication. Mastering these commands will allow you to share information quickly and efficiently.

/ping: This is arguably the most important communication tool in League of Legends. Pings can be used to alert teammates to enemy positions, signal intentions, or call for assistance. Learn the different ping types and use them strategically.
/mute: Use this command to mute players who are being disruptive or toxic. Muting a player will prevent you from seeing their chat messages, allowing you to focus on the game. Type “/mute all” to silence everyone.
/ignore: Similar to mute, but also prevents seeing pings from the targeted player. Use this for particularly disruptive players.
/fullmute: This command completely mutes all chat, including pings, from everyone in the game. This is a drastic measure but can be useful if you’re experiencing excessive negativity.
Chat shortcuts: Quick chat options allow you to send pre-written messages with a single click, such as “On my way!” or “Be careful!”. These are particularly useful when you need to communicate quickly.

League of Legends chat box interface showing team and all chat options

Effective Communication Strategies

Beyond knowing the basic mechanics of chat, understanding how to communicate effectively is crucial. These strategies can significantly improve your teamwork and overall game experience.

Be clear and concise: Avoid long, rambling sentences. Use short, direct messages to convey information quickly.
Call out important information: Focus on sharing information that is immediately relevant to the game, such as enemy positions, missing champions, and objective timers.
Use pings effectively: Combine pings with chat messages to reinforce your communication. A ping followed by a short message like “Missing mid” is much more effective than just a ping alone.
Avoid negativity: Focus on constructive feedback and encouragement. Blaming or criticizing teammates will only worsen team morale and hinder performance.
Listen to your teammates: Pay attention to what your teammates are saying and respond accordingly. Good communication is a two-way street.
Adapt your communication style: Different players have different communication preferences. Be adaptable and adjust your communication style to match your team’s needs.

Advanced Chat Tips and Tricks

For those looking to take their communication skills to the next level, these advanced tips and tricks can be invaluable.

Use timestamps: Indicate the time of an event to provide more precise information. For example, “Enemy jungler top side 3:15” is more informative than simply “Enemy jungler top.”
Develop a shared vocabulary: Create shorthand terms or abbreviations with your regular teammates to communicate complex ideas quickly.
Practice active listening: Pay attention not only to what your teammates are saying but also to what they are not saying. This can help you anticipate their needs and make better decisions.
Master the art of the “shotcaller”: A shotcaller is a player who takes the lead in coordinating team movements and objectives. Effective shotcalling requires clear communication and decisive decision-making.

Example of pings in League of Legends

Dealing with Toxicity in Chat

Unfortunately, toxicity in online gaming is a reality. League of Legends is no exception. Knowing how to deal with toxic players is essential for maintaining a positive gaming experience.

Mute and report: Use the /mute and /ignore commands to silence toxic players. Report them after the game for their behavior.
Don’t engage: Responding to toxic players will only escalate the situation. It’s best to ignore them and focus on the game.
Focus on positive reinforcement: Encourage and support your teammates, even in the face of negativity.
Take breaks: If you’re feeling overwhelmed by toxicity, take a break from the game. It’s important to prioritize your mental well-being.

Communicating with Premade Teams

Communicating within a premade team offers different opportunities and challenges. While you have the advantage of established rapport, it’s important to avoid exclusion and maintain clear communication.

Establish roles and responsibilities: Clearly define who will be the shotcaller, who will focus on specific objectives, and how information will be relayed.
Use voice communication: Utilize platforms like Discord or TeamSpeak for more direct and efficient communication.
Develop strategies and callouts: Create specific callouts and strategies tailored to your team’s composition and playstyle.
Debrief after games: Discuss what worked well and what could be improved in terms of communication and strategy.

Team communication in League of Legends using voice chat

Conclusion

Effective communication is a cornerstone of success in League of Legends. Mastering the various chat features, commands, and strategies outlined in this guide will undoubtedly improve your gameplay, teamwork, and overall enjoyment of the game. So, get out there, communicate effectively, and climb the ranked ladder!

FAQ

What is the command to mute all players in League of Legends? /fullmute will mute all chat and pings.
How do I whisper to a specific player? Use /w summonername or /msg summonername followed by your message.
What are the most important pings to use? The danger, assist me, on my way, and retreat pings are crucial for quick communication.
How can I deal with toxic players in chat? Mute and report them, and avoid engaging in arguments.
What is a shotcaller in League of Legends? A shotcaller is a player who directs team movements and objectives.
How can I improve my communication with a premade team? Use voice communication, establish roles, and debrief after games.
Why is communication important in League of Legends? It enables coordinated plays, objective control, and ultimately, victory.