Shyvana Gets a Massive 2026 VGU (And Mage Players Are Sweating)

It feels like we have been waiting an absolute eternity, but Demacia’s favorite half dragon is finally getting her long awaited makeover. Riot Games has been subtly teasing the new Shyvana Visual and Gameplay Update to coincide with the Demacia season in early 2026. If the latest Public Beta Environment leaks from industry insiders hold true, expect her to land on the live servers soon.

Here is the rundown (according to leaks) on exactly what is changing with her kit:

• Bruisers Win, Mages Cry: Riot is officially pushing her into the true Juggernaut role. If you loved playing her as a cowardly backline artillery mage, you might need to find a new main. She is built to be a frontline menace now.
• The Ultimate Shift: Her Dragon’s Descent ultimate is trading its classic knockup for an Area of Effect Fear. It is incredibly thematic to literally terrify the enemy team, but with her slightly slower travel time, enemies with high tenacity might just walk away before she even lands.
• A New Double Cast: Her Q is losing its infamous immediate double hit mechanic in favor of a recast that grants an Area of Effect cleave and a stun. Rest in peace to instantly clearing control wards, but the added crowd control is a welcome trade.
• New Tools for the Jungle: Her W appears to be getting a recast function as well, and her E now packs an extra explosion if it passes through an enemy champion. Plus, the lava trail adds incredible zone control for jungle skirmishes.
• Aesthetic Upgrades: The visual glow up is completely undeniable. She is sporting pristine Petricite armor, vibrant reddish orange hair, and a dragon form that finally looks like a terrifying raid boss instead of an oversized flying lizard.

This rework completely shifts her trading patterns. A self sustaining bruiser dragon diving the backline sounds incredibly scary. Prepare your ban phases accordingly.