Riot Introduces Demon’s Hand, a Free Card Game, to the League of Legends Client

Riot Games has always been known for creatively expanding the universe of League of Legends beyond the traditional gameplay. Past endeavors have included introducing new game modes, orchestrating vibrant summer events, and even integrating visual novels into the League of Legends client. Each initiative adds depth to the game, offering fans fresh ways to enjoy the League universe. Remember when Arcane was released? It came with its own interactive experience called Jinx Fixes Everything, a point-and-click adventure nestled within the client. On March 19, Riot shook things up again by adding a fascinating new game, Demon’s Hand. This latest addition has a unique vibe that’s noticeably different from Riot’s usual endeavors. It brings to mind the eerie charm of the card game Inscryption.

Demon’s Hand is intricately woven into the lore of League of Legends, set amidst the timeworn Noxian landscapes. Sitting across from me at a dimly lit card table is a mysterious figure, cloaked in bandages, who spins tales about the conquests of Sahn-Uzal and the formidable demon Atakhan. As players, we are thrust into an enigma, our identities shrouded in mystery. Defeating the first boss, the narrative takes an unexpected turn — I gaze down, witnessing my hands transform into fearsome claws, tingling with a buried rage.

The unsettling tale of Demon’s Hand is beautifully complemented by its gameplay, which borrows heavily from the mechanics of poker. Having recently spent many hours on Balatro, I found myself quickly at home within the challenges of Demon’s Hand. The game impresses with its style; players handle intricately painted wooden slabs, portraying Noxian warriors and mythical beasts. Each action is punctuated by the haunting sounds of horns and drums, lending an air of gravity and suspense to the proceedings. A masked guide, enigmatic in demeanor, sits silhouetted against a shifting sun, an atmosphere that mirrors the player’s own gradual transformation. Although brief — taking only about 20 minutes to complete my first playthrough — its allure might tempt one to dive in for a couple more runs.

Stumbling upon an Inscryption-inspired narrative within my League client was an unexpected delight. I’m certainly not complaining; with both League and Demon’s Hand being free-to-play, fans of card game roguelikes and League’s rich lore might find Demon’s Hand to be an intriguing and worthwhile experience.