A new controversy has erupted in League of Legends. Riot Games unveiled an Exalted-tier skin for Jinx called Arcane Fractured Jinx, which is being distributed through a gacha system. The skin can be guaranteed after 80 attempts or obtained earlier with a 0.5% chance. In the worst-case scenario, players may need to spend 32,000 RP — or approximately $250 — to unlock it.

The Arcane Fractured Jinx skin offers three distinct forms and unique visual elements, but its steep cost has sparked significant backlash. Many are comparing it to Elementalist Lux and DJ Sona. Elementalist Lux offers ten different visual styles, while DJ Sona lets teammates enjoy three selectable music tracks, all at a much lower price. The question being asked is, "If there’s no substantial difference, why pay more?"

It’s clear that Riot Games has been ramping up its monetization strategies. A precedent was set with the Faker bundle, released to celebrate his induction into the Hall of Legends. Back then, fans were willing to go to great lengths — some even considering loans — to obtain the premium Ahri skin honoring the legendary player. 

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However, while Arcane may be hugely popular and successful, it’s not Faker. If the backlash over that initiative couldn’t be drowned out despite its tribute to the greatest esports player in history, the dissatisfaction surrounding Arcane Fractured Jinx is even louder. The video’s comment sections are filled with complaints from the community.

Ultimately, the only way to force change may be to vote with your wallet and refuse to support such monetization practices. Social media criticism alone is unlikely to prompt Riot Games to rethink their strategy.

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