All LoL PvE Game Modes

Occasionally stepping away from the fierce competition of Summoner’s Rift, Riot Games has introduced various Player vs. Environment (PvE) modes within League of Legends. These modes provide players with alternative experiences that deviate from the usual 5v5 battles, bringing a fresh perspective to the game.

Whether tackling wave-based challenges or embarking on narrative-driven missions, these PvE game modes allow players to team up and face AI opponents. These experiences offer a chance to refine techniques in a more laid-back setting and to explore different facets of the League universe.

What are LoL PvE game modes?

PvE, or “Player versus Environment,” modes in League of Legends challenge players to collaborate against game-generated obstacles and enemies rather than competing against each other. These modes involve defeating computer-controlled enemies (NPCs), solving intricate puzzles, navigating through complex terrains, and enduring harsh settings.

Players can engage in these missions solo or band together with others, fostering a sense of community and teamwork. Due to the cooperative nature of PvE gameplay, communication and strategic planning are often crucial for success. This collaborative gameplay style emphasizes synergy among team members as they pursue shared objectives.

Complete List of All LoL PvE Game Modes, Past and Present

Nightmare Bots (2015, 2016)

In the Nightmare Bots game mode, League of Legends champions face off against AI-controlled enemies that are drastically overpowered. These enhanced bots offer an incredible challenge, requiring players to rely heavily on teamwork and strategic planning. The main goal is to survive against these relentless opponents, which pushes the limits of player skill and coordination.

Alien Invasion (2017)

The Alien Invasion PvE mode transforms the familiar setting of Summoner’s Rift into a vibrant battleground, overrun by alien invaders. Players take on the roles of Star Guardians, utilizing their celestial abilities to capture key points across the map. Holding these strategic zones continuously generates points for the team, accelerating the climb to victory. This game mode was introduced in conjunction with the popular Star Guardian skin line, celebrating its thematic elements.

Space Pirates: Extraction (2018)

In the Space Pirates: Extraction mode, players become a team of space pirates — Jinx, Malphite, Sona, Yasuo, and Ziggs — and face waves of adversaries. The objectives are to defeat hordes of enemies, gather loot, and complete missions against the clock. This game mode coincided with the launch of the Odyssey skin line, featuring characters reimagined in a space pirate theme.

Swarm Assault: Anima Squad (2024)

The Swarm Assault: Anima Squad mode, introduced in 2024, offers a fresh twist on League of Legends gameplay. This bullet heaven survivor game mode allows players to battle hordes of enemies in either single-player or co-op mode. Up to three friends can join in, creating a team of Anima Squad champions, who are designed with cybernetic animal attributes. Set in the new Final City map, the primary objectives include mowing down enemies, completing missions, and surviving as long as possible.

Players can unlock and upgrade powerful weapons and recruit new Anima Squad members, each bringing unique abilities and strategies. By earning gold during missions, players can purchase permanent Power Ups, which enhance the entire team for future operations. This game mode emphasizes progression, as players continuously improve their performance against the monstrous Primordians.