In the dynamic world of League of Legends, where dazzling plays and flashy champions reign supreme, one role often waits in the wings, quietly orchestrating the drama from afar. Support champions often don’t get the same spotlight as their flashy ADC friends, but they are the backbone of any winning team. Think of them as the unsung heroes, the behind-the-scenes crew making sure the main act shines. Not convinced? Stick around, because this guide will unveil the wonders of support champions and why they deserve a trophy for their heroics.
The Role Of Support Champions In League Of Legends
Support champions in League of Legends play a pivotal role that can often dictate the tempo and outcome of the game. They are the guardians of their allies, often working hand-in-hand with the ADC (Attack Damage Carry) during the laning phase to ensure their safe growth and development. But their duties don’t stop at simply babysitting the ADC. These champions also serve as a formidable frontline presence in team fights, providing essential crowd control and peel to keep foes at bay.
Also, supports are the ward-wearing scouts, keeping the map vision clear and enemies at bay. They are crucial in securing objectives, zoning enemies from critical locations, and providing buffs and heals that can turn the tide of battle. Summarizing, while they might not deal the most damage, support champions are the glue that holds a team together, allowing others to shine while being the strategic mastermind behind the curtain.
Types Of Support Champions
Support champions come in a variety of flavors, each bringing unique tools and tricks to the battlefield. They can typically be categorized into three main types:
1. Enchanters
Enchanters are the healers and buffers of the Summoner’s Rift. Champions like Janna and Lulu provide powerful healing and shields, allowing teammates to endure longer in fights. Their kit often includes abilities that enhance allies’ abilities, making them incredibly valuable in team situations.
2. Tanks
Tank supports, such as Leona and Alistar, thrive on engaging the enemy and absorbing damage. They typically have high durability and crowd control tools that allow them to initiate fights effectively. Their presence can make enemies think twice before charging into battle.
3. Mages
On the other hand, mage supports like Zyra and Brand prioritize damage output over shielding and healing. They can lay down significant area control and can be incredibly punishing during skirmishes. While they may lack in shields, their burst damage can turn any fight in an instant.
Key Attributes Of Effective Support Champions
To truly shine in their role, effective support champions need to embody several key attributes:
Vision Control
Effective map vision is fundamental to success in League of Legends. Good supports ward frequently, denying vision to the enemy and ensuring their team can track objectives.
Crowd Control
Champions with crowd control abilities can disrupt enemy plays and provide their carries the breathing room they need to secure kills. Whether it’s a snare, stun, or knock-up, effective crowd control can make a significant difference in team fights.
Utility and Sustain
From shields to healing abilities, the support champion’s ability to keep their teammates alive is paramount. Champions that can offer utility through their skills not only protect their teammates but also empower them in fights.
Having these attributes helps ensure greater synergy with the team and reinforces the support’s crucial role in maintaining balance throughout gameplay.
Top Support Champions In League Of Legends
Identifying the best support champions can be subjective, varying with playstyle, team composition, and patch updates. But, several champions consistently mark their territory in the current meta:
1. Thresh
A fan-favorite due to his toolkit and versatility, Thresh can hook enemies and save allies. His lantern can turn a bad getaway into an escape oasis, making him a top-tier pick.
2. Lulu
With her ability to buff allies and ward off dangers, Lulu encapsulates what an enchanter should be. Her polymorph ability can nullify threats, making her an invaluable asset.
3. Leona
When it comes to initiation, few can compete with Leona. Her ability to jump into fights and absorb damage gives her the edge in frontline engagements.
4. Nami
Nami brings a unique blend of healing and damage with her versatile spells. Her ultimate can change team fights, providing immense crowd control.
5. Seraphine
Bringing both healing and AoE control, Seraphine excels at providing team-wide empowerment while dishing out damage, solidifying her role as a valuable support choice.
Strategies For Playing Support Champions
Playing support champions effectively comes down to strategy and awareness on the Rift. Here are several critical strategies:
Map Awareness
Always keep an eye on the minimap. Keeping track of enemy junglers and ensuring vision control can save teammates from untimely deaths.
Timing Utility
Use abilities at the most opportune moments. Whether it’s saving an ally or locking down an enemy, timing is crucial to maximizing impact.
Communication
Support heroes thrive on effective communication. Ping often, signal when engaging, or alert teammates when retreating. Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and keeps everyone on the same page.
Implementing these strategies will not only improve individual performance but will also elevate the entire team’s success.
