Riot Games introduces new elements at the start of every LCK season to drive change. Last year's introduction of 'Fearless Draft' became a successful system as it allowed for new team compositions. The 2026 LCK Cup, which concluded its two-month journey with Gen.G's victory, was no exception. Key changes included the introduction of 'Coach Voice,' which allows coaching staff to communicate with players during matches, and 'First Choice,' which allows teams to choose either side selection or pick priority.

The 'Coach Voice' pilot in the LCK Cup was well-intentioned but faced criticism for being only half-successful. Overall utilization by top-tier teams was low, and even when used, it was often consumed by spell checks or meaningless content. However, a precedent was set by DRX, whose coach 'Joker' Jo Jae-eup used it so effectively that he called it an 'oracle,' leading the team to the playoffs. In matches with large skill gaps, real-time feedback also increased the intensity. While there are areas for improvement, it has been proven that it could work as an 'unexpected move' if refined well.

On the other hand, 'First Choice' had a positive impact on resolving the so-called 'Blue side bias' (where the Blue side is so advantageous that the game is ruined). By splitting the choice between side selection and first pick, it was evaluated as opening a new path to resolve the structural imbalance between sides. Although there is not much data yet as only one season has passed, the win rate gap between Blue and Red has narrowed to 51.5% to 48.5% compared to last year's LCK Cup.