The game should not be playable without runes

I feel like riot is hurting themselves by not using runes to its full potential. Rune are perfect means of rounding out builds and can be used to solve a lot of problems where itemization falls short.

lets build a solid foundation with runes.

Tier 1 runes should be free. Doing so would give the message to new players from the start that runes are an instrumental part of the game. If you have to increase the ip cost of tier 2 and 3 that's fine. If need be, refund all rune gold and have us rebuy them. In the tutorial have a step that has new players build their first rune page consisting of only tier 1 runes. Or provide 4 recommended premade pages that are locked in place and can only be deleted upon reaching level 30. one for AP caster would have some ap, magic penetratin, mana and resistances. one for ad one for support one for tanks (maybe hybrid pen or attack speed marks)

The rune system could be so well done. And its well overdo for an overhaul. if they split it into categories. with depreciating values if you get too much in one category be it dmg, mana, tankyness.