Game mode

The Nexus offers multiple ways to duke it out in objective-driven, fast-paced team on team battles. Find the mode that best suits your style and carve your path to glory!

Unranked
Whether you want to learn the game or unwind in a more relaxed game with friends, these modes are for you.

Training
Learn the ropes

The Nexus’ training mode pits you and four A.I. teammates against five easy A.I. heroes. Every practice match begins with a cinematic overview of the field and its objectives. This mode is a great way to learn the ropes of the game, just be aware that practice matches do not contribute to your daily quest progress

Versus A.I.
Refine your skills

In this mode, you fight computer-controlled opponents of scalable difficulty alongside your friends, or with other players via the matchmaking system. If you prefer to go at it solo, you just need to check the A.I. Teammates’ box. Playing in this mode will net you some experience, gold, and daily quest progress.

Quick Match
Ready to rumble

Select the hero you’d like to play, dive into the Quick Match queue, and get ready for a taste of the fast-paced, highly-competitive action the Nexus has to offer. The matchmaking system will pit you against opponents of similar skill. Playing in this mode will net you daily quest progress, as well as bonus gold and experience.

ARAM
All Bets Are Off Choose from three Heroes, then battle it out on a chaotic single-lane Battleground.

Ranked
The greatest challenge within the Nexus await in the game’s ranked play modes. Defeat your enemies and climb the ranks all the way to Grand Master; prove your worth in battle and earn unique season rewards. To learn all there is to know about how to gain rank and dominate people, visit the Ranked Play page.

Storm League
Battle solo or with friends – Must have access to 16 heroes at level 5 or higher (excluding Cho’gall) and an account level of 50 or higher.

Fight alongside (and against) the best of the best solo, or bring friends in a party of up to five players and storm the Nexus together.

Custom Games
Set up a pre-arranged match where you get to pick the battleground, invite players, add A.I. opponents, teammates, and observers. Besides regular hero selection, this mode has a draft setting, where teams take turns picking heroes and no duplicates are allowed—just like in ranked games. Who gets to pick first can be decided by either a coin toss, or it can be selected manually by the match creator.