Cannot Uninstall League of Legends: Riot Client Still Running

Introduction

League of Legends (LoL), a popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game, has captivated millions worldwide. However, some players have encountered difficulty when attempting to uninstall the game due to a persistent Riot Client process that prevents the removal of related components. This article provides a comprehensive guide to resolving this issue, ensuring a seamless uninstallation experience.

Understanding the Problem

The Riot Client is an essential component of LoL, serving as a hub for game updates, player communication, and account management. However, when attempting to uninstall LoL, the Riot Client often remains active in the background, hindering the complete removal of the game. This can be frustrating for users who wish to free up space on their devices or migrate to a different platform.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Close All Riot-Related Processes

Ensure that all LoL-related processes are fully closed. This includes closing the Riot Client, as well as any background processes such as "RADS" or "LeagueClientUxRender." Using Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (Mac), locate and terminate these processes.

2. Navigate to AppData Folder

Open the "Run" dialog box (Windows key + R) and type "%appdata%." This opens the AppData folder, which contains user-specific data for various applications.

3. Delete Riot Games Folder

Locate and delete the "Riot Games" folder within AppData. This will remove all LoL-related preferences, settings, and game files.

4. Check "Program Files" Folder (Windows Only)

Navigate to the "Program Files" folder and locate the "Riot Games" folder. Delete this folder to remove any remaining game files.

5. Restart Your Device

After completing the above steps, restart your device to ensure all changes are applied.

Additional Troubleshooting Tips

• Disable Antivirus Software: Antivirus software may interfere with the uninstallation process. Temporarily disable it and attempt to uninstall again.
• Try a System Restore: If all else fails, consider performing a system restore to a point before you installed LoL. This will reset your device to a previous state and may resolve the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does the Riot Client remain active after I uninstall LoL?

The Riot Client may remain active in the background if you have other Riot Games installed, such as Valorant or Legends of Runeterra. Close these games and follow the steps above to uninstall the Riot Client.

2. Can I reinstall LoL after uninstalling it?

Yes, you can reinstall LoL after uninstalling it. However, you will need to download a fresh copy of the game client from the official LoL website.

3. Is it essential to delete the Riot Games folder in AppData?

Deleting the Riot Games folder in AppData is recommended to ensure a complete removal of all LoL-related files. However, if you wish to preserve your game settings and preferences, you can skip this step.

4. Can I uninstall LoL without an internet connection?

No, you cannot uninstall LoL without an internet connection. The uninstallation process requires access to the LoL servers to verify your account and complete the removal.

Conclusion

Experiencing difficulty uninstalling LoL due to a persistent Riot Client process can be frustrating. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can effectively resolve this issue and ensure a seamless uninstallation of the game. Remember to close all LoL-related processes, delete the Riot Games folder in AppData, and restart your device to complete the process. If you encounter any further problems, consider the additional troubleshooting tips or refer to the frequently asked questions section.