The Netflix series Arcane gives League of Legends fans an intense, character-driven story centred around two sisters, VI and Powder. As they go their separate ways through conflicted decisions and the increase of arcane technology, their explosive relationship is the nucleus of the series’ story. VI, the nickname for Violet, is one of the show’s most recognisable characters. Her tough demeanour, punch-first attitude, and the prominent “VI” tattoo on her cheek make her signature trademarks. However, what does that VI tattoo on her face mean?
So, what is the true significance of VI’s tattoo? Is it simply a nickname, or does it have a greater meaning within Arcane and the broader world of League of Legends? Here, we take a closer look at the origin of VI’s face tattoo, its narrative relevance, and what it symbolises within the world of Runeterra.
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The Origin of the Name “VI”
In Arcane, Violet is the older sister of Powder, who later becomes Jinx. The two grow up in Zaun’s undercity under the care of Vander (The Hound). While she is originally called Violet, most people refer to her as VI. The name works as a short form of Violet, but it also fits her personality and role in the League of Legends universe.
In the game, VI is known as a champion who relies on brute strength, fast punches, and powerful gauntlets. She is introduced simply as “VI,” with no mention of her full name or past. One of her most recognisable features is the “VI” tattoo on her left cheek. The letters also represent the Roman numeral for six, which has led to fan theories and in-universe speculation about its deeper meaning.
The Tattoo in Arcane: VI Is a Mark of Identity
The “VI” tattoo on Violet’s left cheek is not just a fashion statement. It is a turning point for her. It represents the transition from Violet, protective sister and street kid, to VI, hardened warrior with a new purpose.
When she gets the tattoo, she has already experienced tremendous loss. Vander is deceased, she has been separated from her sister, Powder, and wrongfully jailed for seven years. The tattoo symbolises moving away from the past. Violet no longer exists. What’s left is VI, a person shaped by pain, betrayal, and tremendous anger. It’s her new name, etched right into her body.
Roman Numeral or Just a Name?
One of the most discussed features of the tattoo is whether “VI” is merely a stylised nickname or if it contains deeper numeric significance. Within League of Legends lore, there is no clear answer to this, but Arcane leaves room for plenty of speculation. According to some fans, VI was Vander’s sixth adopted child, and the Roman numeral VI can represent her position within that family.
The number might symbolise the six people VI has lost: her adoptive father Vander, her adoptive brothers Mylo and Claggor, her biological parents Connol and Felicia, and her younger sister Powder. Fans see different meanings in Violet’s “VI” tattoo, reflecting the many ways her story can be understood and interpreted.
A Nod to League of Legends Canon
In League of Legends, VI’s “VI” tattoo has been part of her design since her debut in 2012. Riot Games originally designed her as a tough, brawler-type character with a rebellious streak. The tattoo was both a visual identifier and a personality marker.
Arcane takes that visual cue and gives it emotional and narrative weight. By tying the tattoo to a turning point in Vi’s life, the show enriches the symbol and offers a more grounded origin story. It’s no longer just a tattoo for style; it represents everything Vi has endured, lost, and become.
VI’s Tattoo as a Reflection of Trauma and Strength
At its core, Vi’s tattoo is a reflection of how trauma can reshape identity. For Violet, becoming Vi means shedding her past, or at least armouring herself against it. The ink on her face is as much a scar as it is a name. It symbolises her resilience, her transformation, and her willingness to stand up against a world that has constantly tried to break her.
Unlike Jinx, who spirals into chaos and madness, Vi channels her pain into strength and justice. The tattoo is the visual proof of that metamorphosis. It’s a reminder to herself and others that she’s not someone to be underestimated.
Prison Number 516 or VI
Yes, when Violet was wrongfully jailed, she was prisoner number 516. This has led many fans to speculate that her tattoo in roman numerals may also reflect her prisoner number. The prison years were bad for her. It ruined 7 years of her life, away from her sister, among hard criminals. Left to fend for herself. The tattoo, VI, may also represent has prisoner number. Here is how the math looks if you haven’t already figured it out:
- V – 5
- I – 1
- VI – 6
Violet’s Tattoo and Hidden Meanings/Trauma
Violet’s “VI” tattoo is a powerful symbol of identity, transformation, and survival. In Arcane, it marks the moment she stops being a victim of her past and starts carving out her own future. Whether seen as a simple nickname, a Roman numeral, or a deeply personal brand, the tattoo is a defining trait of one of Arcane’s most compelling characters. It is not just ink on skin, it is the story of Vi herself.
