League of Legends Season 14 brings a resurgence of excitement for Smolder ADC players in the with a remarkable win rate of 49.2% and an impressive 67.4% pick rate.
Smolder strengths include strong trading potential, versatile rune options, effective in prolonged team fights, and sustain and damage output.
As the champion sits comfortably in the S tier, it's crucial to stay ahead with the optimal build, runes, and strategies to dominate the battlefield. Let's dive into the intricacies of mastering Riot's new ADC champion Smolder in the current meta.
Smolder's Build
Most Popular Build:
- Essence Reaver
- Berserker's Greaves
- Navori Quickblades
- Bloodthirster
- Lord Dominik's Regards
Recommended Runes: Precision Tree
- Press the Attack
- Overheal
- Legend: Alacrity
- Coup de Grace
Sorcery Tree
- Manaflow Band
- Gathering Storm
Summoner Spells:
- Flash
- Heal
Skill Order:
- Q
- W
- E
- Q
- Q
- R
- Q
- W
- Q
- W
- R
- W
- W
- E
- E
- R
- E
- E
Situational Items
- Ravenous Hydra
- Immortal Shieldbow
- Manamune
- Spear of Shojin
- The Collector
- Nashor's Tooth
Smolder's Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Strong trading potential, especially with the recommended build.
- Versatile rune options for adapting to various matchups.
- Effective in prolonged team fights, thanks to sustain and damage output.
Weaknesses:
- Vulnerable during W cooldown, so timing is crucial in engagements.
- Susceptible to crowd control effects; caution is advised when abilities are on cooldown.
- Relatively item-dependent for optimal performance.
Smolder's Tips and Tricks
- W Usage Caution: Be mindful of using W, especially if the enemy has potent crowd control tools. A mistimed W could leave you vulnerable when it's on cooldown.
- Level 2 Power Spike: Ensure you reach level 2 first to gain a trading advantage. Consider taking E at level 2 for potential early all-ins.
- Passive Exploitation: Make the most of your Passive by consistently attacking the enemy to upgrade your Q early on.
Choosing the Right Build for the Right Situation
Most Popular Build (56.3% Win Rate):
- Ideal for a balanced performance, offering a mix of damage and sustain.
Optional Build (52.7% Win Rate):
- Triumph for additional survivability and Absolute Focus for enhanced damage.
Alternative Build (56.0% Win Rate):
- Lethal Tempo for extended fights and Taste of Blood for sustain.
Off-Meta Build (68.5% Win Rate):
- Fleet Footwork for mobility and Ghost for unconventional plays.
Conclusion: Smolder's Rise in Season 14
With a diverse range of builds and strategic nuances, mastering Smolder Bot in Apex Legends Season 14.2 opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you adhere to the most popular build or explore off-meta options, adapting to the evolving meta ensures a thrilling experience on the battlefield.
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