One of the first things you guys said on the patch impressions was that you were hoping Flash would get removed. I’m not a fan of Flash, but without implementing another Flash mechanic (like the Flash boots they made some time ago) I don’t think we’ll be seeing Flash disappear any time soon.

The problem is that just too many champions rely on Flash to effectively use their skills. The most obvious example is probably Alistar, a character for which Flash is all but necessary. And what of Fiddlesticks? Often by the time his ultimate is done channeling his targets are gone. The channel is also long enough that he can’t really afford to ult in the middle of a teamfight. The list goes on – basically any champion with an AOE ult could be in regular need of Flash. Think of ulting with Kennen just to see Shaco Deceive, Gragas Body Slam, or Kassadin Rift Walk.

Flash is definitely most frustrating when used as a defensive tool, but as an offensive tool it really improves the pace of the game. Imagine laning as Annie and just waiting for the perfect moment to drop Tibbers. You need an element of surprise, and Flash provides it.

I would love to see them change Flash so that it can’t be used when you’re considered ‘in combat.’ That would eliminate most of the defensive use and encourage players to keep it only for those characters who need it most. Without that kind of change, I don’t see Flash going away any time soon.

Riot snuck another change into the latest Test Realm patch, one we’ve been waiting on for quite a while. The patch introduced the Yordle Stompers, a new pair of boots with a Movement Speed 2 buff and an active that you’ve known up until now as Flash. Yes, Flash on boots.

The boots are expensive – 1400 in total – and obviously take the spot of one of those other pairs of sneakers you love. Personally, I think it’s the best option other than removing Flash completely. It forces players to make a choice between the utility of a Flash (on a 240 second CD, by the way) or the functionality of dodge/CC reduction. It also opens up player options for summoner skills, so characters that previously had to rely on Flash can now make some more interesting choices for their two skills.

If you want to see more of the community feedback regarding the boots check this TR thread. It’s worth reading through to see some of the opinions and the response from the devs. I really like the idea behind Phreak’s post. The basic gist comes from an article written by another game designer who says when there’s only one best way to invade France, you start the game after that invasion. I think that’s the problem overlooked most in game design. It’s not interesting when one spell, skill, rule, build, loadout, whatever is ubiquitous. It kills the variety of a game. It’s the difference between Halo 1 and Halo 2. Halo 1 it was pistol or nothing. While 2 still made heavy use of the Battle rifle, you always had the opportunity to take a strategic point with dual-wielding or a well-placed shotgun blast.