Riot Games Rolls Out Closed-Beta of New Creator Partner Program

Riot Games has begun rolling out a closed-beta version of its Creator Partner Program, marking the company's latest effort to strengthen ties with content creators who produce videos and streams around its flagship games, including "League of Legends," "VALORANT," and "Teamfight Tactics."

The Los Angeles-based gaming company started sending invitations Monday to select creators worldwide, according to an official announcement. The program represents Riot's first structured approach to creator partnerships since pausing applications for its previous League Partner Program due to overwhelming demand.

The initiative comes as gaming companies increasingly rely on content creators to drive engagement and marketing for their titles. Rivals, including Epic Games and Activision Blizzard have already established similar programs, putting pressure on Riot to compete for creator loyalty in a crowded market.

"This is our first step towards a new and more sustainable Partner Program," Riot said in its announcement, noting that the current version is still in early development phases.

The program offers selected creators recognition, exclusive perks, and structured incentives during the testing period. New benefits expected to launch in late October include special in-game titles such as "Like, Comment, Subscribe" in League of Legends and "VALORANT Partner" in VALORANT, plus unique cosmetic items in Teamfight Tactics.

Riot emphasized that current perks are subject to change as the company refines its approach based on beta feedback. The company plans to use the testing phase to evaluate workflows, reward systems, and engagement metrics before expanding access to more creators.

The program isn't expected to reach broader availability until late 2026, according to Riot's timeline. The company said it's targeting creators with established communities, though it didn't disclose specific participant criteria or reveal which creators have been selected for the beta.

For Riot, the program represents a strategic bet on the growing creator economy as a marketing channel. By empowering content creators, the company aims to generate more authentic promotion of its games, in-game purchases, and merchandise while reducing reliance on traditional advertising.

The move reflects broader industry trends as game developers seek to harness the influence of content creators who can reach millions of viewers across platforms like YouTube and Twitch. Success in formalizing these relationships could provide Riot with a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining the creator talent that drives much of modern gaming's cultural conversation.