League of Legends: Sejuani Rework Preview

Sejuani’s have never been a good match for an ice-hardened warrior that thrives in the tundra. The re-work not only addresses her visual mismatch but also her game-play and story. Let’s take a look at how Sejuani will look from now on.

Welcome the Armour, Question the Boar

The minimal armour and slender body that characteristic of Sejuani surely say barbarian but don’t communicate the aspect of an ice warrior well. Conversely, a wider body framed by full body armour coupled with fur clothes are clearer about the theme; despite the ubiquitous cleavage. However, the broken horn in the helmet and somewhat revealing gear give the feel of a link to her former self.

In addition to this, the shield is dropped, only salvaged in the skins as an armguard, and the flail refined as less brutal and more magical; which is peculiar. Regardless, it makes sense to have one hand with a weapon and another directing the mount. Still, it feels as it’s more a refinement than a re-interpretation of Sejuani.

Speaking of which, the more stylized, furrier and broader boar also better reflects the ice theme. Bristle looks more feral and dangerous which also shows Sejuani’s determination in taming such a powerful creature. Unfortunately, a boar doesn’t carry a strong ice connotation despite the species living in snowy habitats.

It could very well be said that keeping Bristle as a boar is a missed opportunity; especially in light of the traditional skin, which would maintain the previous look alive. Snow leopards, wolfs, polar bears are just a few possible mounts that would’ve been a better suit. A boar surely makes for an interesting alternate choice but the classic skin may be better served by a more clear pick. A boar isn’t a bad mount but it’s not the most natural one.

Riding with Skins

Sabretusk Sejuani greatly benefits from the imposing new design of Bristle. This helps convey a more savage aspect for the boar that also matches the aboriginal style well; just like the flail does. Decorations are polished but manage to stay primitive and appealing so that they add to the theme. However, ice particles are bound to remain and just as they didn’t fit her before they won’t fit her now.

Darkrider Sejuani’s sinister knight aspect is maintained and even furthered with more components. Still, there’s skin exposed and some tight leather that contrast her new design. Bristle doesn’t change much either: just a bit more armour. Moreover, a boar may not be the best choice for a terrifying knight with ice powers. Additionally, the ice theme is connected to the skin with the flail but not expanded upon.

Traditional Sejuani keeps most of the style of her humble origin. Her fantastic ice barbarian look remains and the flail looks rather brutal with its numerous and sturdy spikes. Bristle manages some of his former modesty but his outline is still more imposing. All in all, it’s not a bad adaptation.

Conclusion

The Sejuani re-work is a clear improvement over the former Sejuani but it still feels like more could’ve been attained had the style not attached itself so much to her original self. The new Sejuani is clearer about her nature but doesn’t seem like an innovation that does away with previous conventions and tries everything to have a novel and improved Sejuani.

What’s your opinion?