What is Level Up in Legends of Runeterra?

Legends of Runeterra has many card effects that are common enough that they get their own keyword - a word or two that immediately tells you how the card works. Let's take a look at the Level Up keyword.

A champion levels up once this condition is met, even in hand or deck.

Stronger, better, faster than ever; we have the technology!

Champions are special units that can Level Up, gaining additional stats, keywords, and/or abilities. The requirement to Level Up is listed at the bottom of the Champion's card, and is different for each Champion.

Know that there is a difference between Champions as-to when they're allowed to Level Up. If a Champion's text asks that they've "seen" something happen, that means you must have that Champion on the table already when the thing occurs. They might also say "I've (done X)", which would also require being present in the game. Otherwise, you can Level Up from anywhere; even in the deck.

Keywords that Work Great with Level Up

No one keyword works great with Level Up as each champion is different, silly.

Playing Against Level Up in Legends of Runeterra

Each champion is unique, as our their means to level up (with a few exceptions). As such, the strategy to play against them depends on which one you're dealing with; keep yourself informed of what they do, and act appropriately!

Example Legends of Runeterra Level Up Cards

Teemo levels up by placing Poison Puffcaps on your opponent's cards, whether or not he's on the table. Afterwards, he attempts to double the number of Puffcaps in your opponent's deck, thereby doubling the headache involved.

Garen levels up by striking twice, which doesn't necessarily mean he has to attack twice. Rallying gives you an attack even when you're supposed to be defending, or allows you to attack more than once in a round. Pretty OP!

Vladimir levels up from allies surviving damage, while also coming with a way to ping your allies. Combine him with Braum for a seemingly-limitless supply of blood for your magic!

Darius levels up when your opponent's Nexus is at 10 or less, regardless of where he is. With 10 Power and Overwhelm, he's determined to end the battle quickly and decisively.