Why Can’t I Spectate League of Legends in 2020? Common Issues and Solutions

Ever tried to watch your friend steal a Baron in League of Legends, only to hit a digital wall? You are not the only one. Spectating in League of Legends should be easy. Yet, tech issues sometimes get in the way. Let’s explore these spectating problems and see why you might be stuck on the sidelines.

Spectating in League of Legends: Your Ticket to the Rift Sidelines

Do you want to be a virtual observer on Summoner’s Rift? League of Legends has official and unofficial ways to do it. Each option has its own quirks. Let’s discuss these methods.

The Official Riot-Approved Methods

Riot Games provided built-in ways to spectate games through their client. These methods are generally reliable if all systems are functioning properly. We know that in online gaming, this is a big assumption.

Spectating Friends: The Buddy System

The easiest way to join a spectate session is through your friends list. If your friend isn’t hiding their match history, you can watch their game. Here’s how to become a spectating ninja:

1. Open Your Friends List: This is usually in the bottom right corner of your League of Legends client. Click that icon of two heads to see your buddy list.
2. Right-Click the Friend: Look for the friend who is in a game. Their name may be highlighted or show an “in game” indicator. Right-click on their name or card.
3. Join the Lobby (If Applicable): If they are in a custom game or pre-game lobby, you may see a “Join Lobby” option. Click that if it appears.
4. Hit Spectate: After right-clicking, find the “Spectate” option in the menu. Click it eagerly. If everything is fine, you should enter spectator mode.

This method is usually simple. But if the “Spectate” option is missing, we will explore reasons later.

Spectating Custom Games: Your Private Viewing Booth

Custom games are the sandbox mode of League and offer another route for spectating. If you know about the custom game lobby and it isn’t password-protected, you can join as a spectator.

1. Navigate to Custom Games: In the League client, go to the “Play” tab and select “Custom”.
2. Browse or Search: You can browse available custom games or search for a specific lobby if you know its name.
3. Join as Spectator: Once you locate the lobby, there should be an option to “Spectate”. Click that in the lobby window.

Custom games often focus on practice or fun. Spectating allows you to learn or enjoy without pressure.

Venturing into Third-Party Spectating: The Wild West of Viewing

In addition to Riot’s official ways, many third-party sites and apps have emerged for spectating League of Legends games. They may offer more features but come with risks of using unofficial software.

OP.GG: The All-Seeing Eye

OP.GG is well-known in the League community for match history and champion statistics, as well as spectating. It acts like a League detective agency.

1. Head to OP.GG: Open your web browser and go to OP.GG.
2. Search for a Player: In the search bar, enter the Summoner Name of the player you want to watch.
3. Find the Live Game: If the player is live, OP.GG will show a “Live” button next to their name or match history.
4. Spectate Button Magic: Click the “Spectate” button. It may ask you to launch the OP.GG desktop app or give instructions to start League.
5. Follow the Instructions: OP.GG will provide a command to copy and paste in your system’s terminal. This command tells your League client to enter spectator mode for that game.

OP.GG is great for spectating ranked games of players not on your friends list. Want to spy on opponents before ranked matches? OP.GG can help.

LoLSpectator.tv: The Broadcast Booth

LoLSpectator.tv focuses on spectating League of Legends games. It aims for a more direct and streamlined experience.

1. Visit LoLSpectator.tv: Open your browser and go to LoLSpectator.tv.
2. Browse Live Games: The site usually shows a list of live games from different regions and platforms.
3. Choose a Game: Select the game you want to watch. LoLSpectator.tv often categorizes by region and rank.
4. Spectate: Click on the selected game. This may launch the OP.GG desktop app or provide commands for launching League in spectator mode.

LoLSpectator.tv can help you find random games to watch if you just want some League action without focusing on one player.

Ranked Spectating: Is it Possible?

You may wonder if you can watch ranked games. The answer is yes! Both official and third-party methods work for ranked matches, though some nuances exist.

If your friend plays a ranked game, the “Spectate” option should be available. There is a delay (around 3 minutes) in spectator mode to avoid unintentional information sharing (ghosting).

Third-party sites like OP.GG and LoLSpectator.tv also effectively spectate ranked games, pulling data from ranked matches to offer insights.

You can spectate ranked games and see players’ trials in their battles on the ranked ladder.

Wild Rift Spectating: Mobile Viewing

How about League of Legends: Wild Rift, the mobile version? Spectating in Wild Rift is more limited, focusing mainly on the buddy system.

The main way to spectate in Wild Rift is through your friends list. Here’s what to do:

1. Become Friends: You must be friends with the player whose game you wish to watch. Friendship is crucial in Wild Rift’s spectating world.
2. Find Your Friend: Open your friends list in Wild Rift.
3. Tap the Spectate Icon: If your friend is in a game, tap the “Spectate” icon next to their name. It may look like an eye. This should take you to their game.

Wild Rift’s features are evolving, so watch for updates that may expand spectating options beyond friends-only viewing.

Spectator Mode: The Ghostly Perspective

No matter how you start spectating, you’ll enter “Spectator Mode.” This mode offers a detached perspective on the game. Here’s what to know about being a spectator:

• Delayed Viewing: There’s a delay (about 3 minutes) between live games and spectator views. This is to prevent spectators from sharing real-time info with players.
• Invisible Presence: Players have no idea you are watching unless they are psychic. You are invisible to them.
• Camera
• Control: You control the camera. You can pan across the map, zoom in and out, and follow specific champions. The camera can toggle between locked (following a player) and unlocked (free movement).
• Information Access: Spectator mode provides the same information as players. You see vision control, item builds, and gold counts. It offers a bird’s-eye view of the strategy.

Spectator mode is for learning. You can watch high-level play, study strategies, and see decision-making processes. There is no pressure to perform. It is like a free coaching session through observation.

Problems in Paradise: Why Spectating Goes Wrong

Let’s address the elephant in the room. Why can’t you spectate League of Legends in 2020 or any year? Spectating is usually reliable, but technology gremlins can interfere. Here are common causes of spectating issues:

The Dreaded Black Screen of Spectating Doom

Ah, the black screen. The bane of every gamer. You click “Spectate,” but it shows a void of nothingness. A digital black hole replaces the game. Why does this happen?

• Graphics Driver Gremlins: Outdated or corrupted drivers often lead to black screens. The graphics card renders visuals, and faulty drivers can cause darkness.
• Internet Connection Hiccups: Spectating needs a stable internet. If the connection is weak or drops, it may not load, resulting in black screens.
• Game Client Hiccups: The League of Legends client can malfunction too. Corrupted files or glitches can lead to display issues during spectating.
• Third-Party App Interference: Programs running in the background may conflict with the game and cause display problems.
• In-Game Setting Shenanigans: Certain video settings, especially related to resolution or display mode, can trigger black screens if incompatible with your system.

Display Issues: Beyond the Black Screen

Black screens are extreme, but issues can appear in other ways, disrupting your viewing experience.

• Red Border of Doom: A red screen border suggests outdated drivers. The game begs for an update.
• Out of Range Monitor Mayhem: A monitor showing “Out of Range” means the game runs at a resolution or refresh rate that your monitor can’t handle.
• Cursor Capers: Issues with the mouse cursor, such as disappearing or erratic movement, can disturb your spectating. They are linked to driver problems or software conflicts.

The Play Button is Greyed Out: Stuck in Client Limbo

Ever tried to launch a game, only to find the “Play” button greyed out? This can be frustrating.

• Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) Errors: League uses EAC for fairness. If EAC has issues, it can block game launches or spectating.
• Server Side Shenanigans: Sometimes, the problem is not yours. Server issues, maintenance, or outages can disrupt game functions.
• Game Update Glitches: An update or incomplete update process may cause client-side issues, including greyed-out buttons.
• Third-Party Software Conflicts: Those pesky applications can interfere with the game launch, causing unresponsive buttons.

Game Crashes: Spectating Aborted

Nobody enjoys a game crash. One moment you watch, the next, you see your desktop.

• Internet Instability: An inconsistent connection can cause crashes, especially during live spectating.
• Graphics Card Strain: Spectating is less demanding, but it still loads the graphics card. Overheating or struggling components can lead to crashes.
• Software Conflicts: Conflicts with third-party apps may cause instability and crashes.

Underlying System Issues: Digging Deeper

Sometimes, problems aren’t about the game. They stem from deeper system issues.

• Permissions Problems: League needs proper permissions to function. If not granted, malfunctions may occur, including spectating failures.
• Full-Screen Optimization Fumbles: Windows’ optimization can cause issues with older games, especially when switching between windows.
• Monitor Incompatibility: Rarely, there may be compatibility issues between your monitor and graphics card that lead to glitches.

Troubleshooting Spectating Black Screen Issues: A Summoner’s Guide

Let’s troubleshoot those spectating black screen problems. Here’s a guide to exorcise these visual voids and get back to enjoying the game.

The Classic Fixes: Tried and True

Start here with these go-to solutions. They help solve problems without much hassle.

• Update Your Graphics Drivers: This is often the main culprit. Visit your graphics card manufacturer’s site and download the latest drivers. A fresh install can work wonders.
• Check Your Internet Connection: Run an internet speed test to check stability. Restart your modem and router to refresh your connection. A wired connection is usually better than Wi-Fi.
• Repair the Game Client: The League client has a repair function. In settings, find an option to “Repair.” This scans files and fixes corrupted data.
• Close Third-Party Applications: Exit unnecessary applications, especially overlays or recording software. A clean boot may help isolate conflicts.
• Adjust In-Game Settings: Lower in-game video settings (resolution and quality). Sometimes, less is more for stability.
• Reinstall the Game: As a last resort, if nothing works, consider a clean reinstall. Uninstall League of Legends completely and download a fresh installer from Riot Games.
• Contact Riot Support: If problems persist, reach out to Riot Support. They provide personalized help for account-specific or server issues.

Advanced Tactics: When Things Get Tricky

If basic fixes fail, use advanced tactics. These steps are technical but essential for resolving stubborn issues.

• Check Monitor Connections: Ensure the monitor cable is securely connected. A loose connection can cause display issues.
• Safe Mode Boot: Boot your computer into Safe Mode. If spectating works in Safe Mode, it indicates a conflict in your normal environment. You may need to rollback drivers or disable programs.
• Update All Drivers: Make sure all device drivers (network adapter, sound card) are up to date. Outdated drivers affect performance.
• Sometimes, system changes lead to unexpected issues.
• System Restore: If recent updates or software installations cause problems, use System Restore to reset the computer. This action can revert changes and fix conflicts.
• Scan for Malware: Conduct a full system scan using reliable antivirus software. Malware can create instability and trigger unusual application behavior.
• Check BIOS/UEFI Settings: Occasionally, incorrect BIOS/UEFI settings disrupt graphics card initialization or display. Refer to the motherboard manual for suggestions or reset BIOS/UEFI settings (modification requires caution).
• Hard Reset: If your computer is unresponsive during use, perform a hard reset by holding the power button until it turns off. This drastic action may resolve system lockups.
• Consult a Professional: If issues continue after trying these steps, consider hiring a technician. They diagnose hardware problems or complex software conflicts beyond your ability.

Replays: Reliving the Rift’s Glory (or Facepalms)

Spectating live games offers excitement, but sometimes you want to rewatch matches and analyze key moments or highlight reels of your plays. Replays allow for that flexibility.

Watching Replays: The Time-Traveling Spectator

League of Legends features a built-in replay system that records past games automatically. Access these replays via your match history in the client.

1. Go to Match History: In the League of Legends client, head to your profile and click the “Match History” tab.
2. Find the Replay: Search for the game you wish to rewatch in your match history. Each entry should have a “Download Replay” button.
3. Download the Replay: Select the “Download Replay” button. The client downloads a small file with the replay data.
4. Watch the Replay: After downloading, the button changes to “Watch Replay.” Click it to view the replay.

Replays offer complete spectator controls: fast-forward, rewind, change camera angles, and scrutinize match details. It’s like having your own game film studio.

OP.GG Replay Magic: Beyond Your Own Games

OP.GG provides replay functionality beyond your own matches. You can watch other players’ games, even professional matches, through the platform.

1. OP.GG Replay Access: When you explore a player’s match history on OP.GG, look for a video icon next to their games. This signifies an available replay.
2. Click the Video Icon: Select the video icon for the game you want to view.
3. Launch OP.GG Desktop App: Clicking the video icon may prompt you to open the OP.GG desktop app or give commands for starting the League client and replay.
4. Enjoy the Replay: Follow instructions on-screen, and you should watch the replay through the League client, guided by OP.GG’s interface.

OP.GG replays are valuable for learning from other players, analyzing strategies, and scouting potential ranked opponents.

League Director: Level Up Your Replay Experience

If you want advanced replay analysis, consider League Director. This third-party application improves replay viewing with enhanced camera controls and cinematic tools.

1. Download and Install League Director: Obtain League Director from a trusted source (like GitHub releases). Follow installation guidelines.
2. Launch League Director: Open League Director and configure it to recognize your League of Legends installation directory.
3. Launch a Replay in League: Start League of Legends and access a replay as usual (via match history).
4. League Director Connects Automatically: League Director should detect your replay launch and connect seamlessly.
5. Use Advanced Controls: League Director presents an interface with advanced camera controls, free camera movement, and tools for cinematic experiences.

This tool is excellent for content creators or anyone wanting to make visually striking replay videos or analyze gameplay footage deeply.

Replay Safety: Is it Risky?

Using third-party tools involves safety concerns. Reputable sites like OP.GG aim to be secure and avoid malware. However, consider these precautions:

• Download from Official Sources: Always acquire software from official sites or trustworthy sources (like GitHub for open-source projects).
• Be Wary of Suspicious Prompts: Watch for unusual prompts or permission requests from the software. If anything seems off, proceed with caution.
• Keep Antivirus Active: Make sure your antivirus software is running and up to date to protect against threats.

Typically, well-known third-party tools for replay viewing are safe, but remain vigilant and maintain safe downloading habits.

Privacy and Spectating: Are You a Ghost or a Specter?

Now, let’s discuss privacy while spectating. Are you entirely invisible, or can players sense your presence?

Spectator Visibility: The Unseen Observer

In League of Legends, when spectating a game, you remain invisible to players. They won’t know you’re watching unless they have you on their friends list and are guessing your presence based on delayed actions.

The game doesn’t notify players when someone spectates them. You are a silent observer, invisible in the match without leaving evidence for players.

Invisibility in Spectator Mode: Complete Stealth

Spectator mode ensures you remain undetected. You do not trigger game events and cannot be sensed by players. This stealth is vital for fair play, preventing ghosting or unfair advantages.

Game Settings and Spectating: Tweaking Your View

While spectating, you can adjust your viewing experience through in-game settings.

Camera Control: Unlocking the View

In spectator mode, unlock the camera for free panning across the map. The default mode often locks the camera to a single champion, but unlocking offers a broader view.

Camera Lock: Following the Action

Camera lock centers the view on one champion, typically the one you are following. This mode helps you focus on a player’s movements and perspective.

You can toggle camera lock using the camera lock icon or hotkey between a focused view and a wider map overview.

Full Screen Mode: Immersive Spectating

For an immersive experience, switch to full-screen mode. It removes window borders and maximizes gameplay visibility on your display.

Read-Only Settings: Spectator Defaults

Account Information: Your Riot ID and Account Age

Although not directly linked to spectating issues, knowing your Riot ID and account age can benefit various contexts in League of Legends, including troubleshooting or account recovery.

Finding Your Riot ID: Your Digital Tag

Your Riot ID is your unique identifier across all Riot Games. It is used for login and visibility to other players in-game.

• Logging into Riot Account Website: Go to
• account.riotgames.com. Log in with your League of Legends credentials. Your Riot ID appears at the top of the page.
• In the League Client: Your Riot ID shows in the top right corner of the League of Legends client, next to your summoner icon.

Account Age: How Long Have You Been Summoning?

Knowing your League of Legends account age can be a fun memory or useful for account verification.

The easiest way to figure this out is by checking your email inbox. Look for the oldest Riot Games emails. The date of the earliest email helps you estimate your account creation date.

Game Mode Context: Spectator Mode vs. Creative/Survival

“Spectator mode” means different things depending on the game. In League of Legends, it refers to watching matches. In Minecraft, “spectator mode” is a distinct mode with unique features.

Spectator Mode Command: Minecraft vs. League

In Minecraft, you can enable spectator mode with a command: /gamemode spectator. This changes your gameplay to spectator mode, letting you fly through blocks and view the world without interaction.

In League of Legends, there is no such command for spectator mode. You access it through methods we discussed before – spectating friends, custom games, or using third-party tools. You don’t switch modes mid-match.

Creative and Survival Modes: Minecraft’s Gameplay Spectrum

Minecraft has unique game modes like Creative and Survival that change gameplay. Creative mode gives unlimited resources for free building. Survival mode challenges you to gather resources and face threats.

League of Legends lacks similar “Creative” or “Survival” modes in its main gameplay. League focuses on different map objectives, team compositions, or rule variations like ARAM or URF. The core gameplay remains focused on MOBA combat and strategy.

Other League Issues: Beyond Spectating Problems

While we’ve discussed spectating issues, League of Legends can have more problems players face.

Smurfing: The Ranked Ladder Menace

Smurfing means creating a new account to play at lower ranks. This issue disrupts matchmaking balance in League ranked games.

Spotting smurfs can be difficult, but look for these signs:

• Unconventional Usernames: Smurfs use generic or unusual usernames.
• Perfect CS: High creep score (CS) indicates skilled players winning lower ranks.
• Ward Mastery: Smurfs show excellent ward placement and vision.
• Off-Meta Builds: Smurfs try unusual builds, succeeding due to their skill.

Ranked Restrictions: Punishments for Misbehavior

Ranked restrictions are penalties for players who break League of Legends conduct rules. These penalties stop players from joining ranked queues until they finish a number of games in other modes while behaving well.

These restrictions aim to discourage negative behavior and encourage a positive atmosphere in ranked play.