玩家口中「凉了」的国民游戏，在工作日晚上排起长队

Core Insights - The article discusses the resurgence of "League of Legends" due to the introduction of a new game mode called "Hextech Mayhem," which has led to a significant increase in player activity and even queue times during weekdays [1][14] - Despite facing a "mid-life crisis" with declining active user numbers and an aging player base, "League of Legends" remains a dominant force in the gaming industry, particularly in esports [2][11] User Engagement - The global active user count for "League of Legends" has been declining, with the average age of core players rising to 28 years [2] - The game has struggled to maintain its previous peak engagement levels, with matchmaking times now averaging three to four minutes during non-peak hours [2] Game Mechanics and Updates - "League of Legends" has adapted to market trends by reducing game lengths, changing surrender vote mechanics, and introducing new gameplay modes to keep the experience fresh [2][5] - The "Hextech Mayhem" mode, launched in October, has successfully attracted returning players and has been made a permanent feature due to its popularity [14][16] Esports Influence - The esports scene has played a crucial role in sustaining the game's popularity, with significant events generating spikes in player engagement and community excitement [7][10] - Historical victories by teams like IG have led to massive player influxes and community celebrations, demonstrating the impact of competitive success on player retention [10][11] Innovation and Iteration - The article highlights the iterative nature of "League of Legends," where past experiences and player feedback have shaped new game modes and mechanics, such as the integration of Roguelike elements from other successful modes [20][26] - The company has shown a willingness to experiment with gameplay, leading to the successful development of modes like "Teamfight Tactics" and "Hextech Mayhem" [26][27] Market Position - Despite competition from newer titles, "League of Legends" continues to hold the top position in gaming popularity, particularly in internet cafes [11][13] - The game's longevity is attributed to its ability to evolve and adapt to player preferences, ensuring it remains relevant in a rapidly changing gaming landscape [26][27]