Although typically new champions and skins in League of Legends are unlocked using in game currencies or paid for with real cash, Riot Games has announced an entirely new way to unlock its latest skin for undead support character, Thresh.
In a partnership with Dutch non-profit blood bank, Sanquin, Riot has created the #MyFirstBlood scheme, which it's hoped will lead to a lot of League of Legends players giving blood around the world.
"Anybody who has watched the EU LCS can tell you that securing First Blood is one of the most important objectives on the Rift. Similarly, donating blood in real life is crucial for those in need, which is why we’ve partnered with Sanquin," Riot's Alban Dechelotte said on LolEsports. "The organisation is responsible for the blood supply in the Netherlands and is on a mission to combat the concerning decrease in blood donor numbers."
To unlock the Thresh skin, all you have to do is sign up with Sanguin and donate blood once, then you can play as the red-tinted version of the lantern-slinging hero and show off your ability to provide for those in the direst of need.
It's hoped that this campaign will lead to a rise in blood donors in the Netherlands and by extension the rest of the world. The numbers have been falling in the Netherlands in recent years, so tapping into a market of millions of gamers might be a good way to turn that around.
If you're not located in the Netherlands, remember it's still a great idea to give blood. If you want to find a blood donor location in your local area, you can search for one using the Red Cross website.
