Yes, you can quit an ARAM (All Random All Mid) game in League of Legends at any point, but doing so will result in penalties that are consistent with leaving any other matchmade game mode.
When participating in a matchmade ARAM game on the Howling Abyss, players have the option to leave the game by disconnecting or exiting the client. However, this action is not without repercussions. Riot Games employs a robust system designed to discourage players from abandoning ongoing matches and ensure a fair experience for all participants.
The primary system in place for monitoring and penalizing leavers is LeaverBuster. This automated system detects players who frequently leave or are inactive (AFK) during games. Its goal is to maintain the integrity of gameplay by deterring disruptive behavior that negatively impacts teammates. If you leave an ARAM game, you will be flagged by LeaverBuster, which can lead to a series of escalating penalties.
Understanding LeaverBuster Penalties
LeaverBuster implements a tiered penalty system that becomes progressively more severe with each detected infraction. These penalties are designed to encourage players to complete their games.
- Initial Penalties: For first-time or infrequent leavers, the system might start with a warning message or a short delay before being able to queue for another match.
- Escalating Queue Delays: Subsequent offenses will lead to longer queue delays, meaning you'll have to wait a specified amount of time (e.g., 5, 10, or 20 minutes) in a low-priority queue before you can even join the regular matchmaking queue.
- Extended Restrictions: Persistent leaving can result in significantly longer queue restrictions, potentially up to 20 minutes for multiple games, applied before every match you attempt to join.
- Temporary Bans: In severe and repeated cases of leaving or AFK behavior, players may face temporary suspensions from playing League of Legends altogether.
Summary of Potential LeaverBuster Penalties:
| Penalty Type | Description | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Warning Message | An in-game notification advising against leaving games. | Low |
| Queue Delay (5 min) | Requires waiting 5 minutes in a low-priority queue before matching. | Medium |
| Queue Delay (10 min) | Requires waiting 10 minutes in a low-priority queue before matching. | Medium-High |
| Queue Delay (20 min) | Requires waiting 20 minutes in a low-priority queue before matching. | High |
| Temporary Ban | Account suspended from playing for a set duration, preventing any gameplay. | Very High |
Why Staying in the Game Matters
While the option to leave exists, it significantly impacts the game experience for your teammates. ARAM, being a 5v5 game mode, relies heavily on team composition and numerical parity. When a player leaves, it creates a significant disadvantage for their team, potentially turning a winnable game into a frustrating loss. Completing games, even those that seem difficult, is an essential part of good sportsmanship and ensures a better experience for the entire community.
- Fair Play: Upholding the integrity of the game for all participants.
- Team Reliance: Your teammates depend on your presence and contribution throughout the match.
- Avoiding Penalties: Staying in the game prevents you from accumulating LeaverBuster strikes and facing the associated restrictions.
Therefore, while it is technically possible to quit an ARAM game, it is strongly discouraged due to the immediate negative impact on your team and the subsequent penalties imposed by the LeaverBuster system.
