I really like the new mode, its good to see that they made the crystal scar into something people play again (I was once an avid crystal scar player, it kept me from stop playing league cause normals at lower levels take a long time). I hope they keep it and add into the crystal scar stats. It would be nicer to have more shorter game modes (for those of us with limited time) or larger game modes with more people.
Also, I would like to see more icons associated with hard to do in-game objectives like a perfect game for Rift where you lose no towers, no dragon, no baron, and keep at least a 1:1 KDA ratio.
As far as the lore, personally I like the new lore but I would still like to see some elements of the old lore (being an older player). I don't get why they can't tie it into the "league". Or it would be nice if they a can make a historical chronicle section for the old lore (just to go back and enjoy the old stories). On a positive note I am excited to see what they do and add more of a story/personality to the characters as well as see where they delve further into the world.