June 14, 2026 Rank-Up Blueprint: Master the Pace, Dominate the Ladder! Deep Dive into Popular TFT Compositions Across All Modes

The Rank Thief
June 14, 2026 Rank-Up Blueprint: Master the Pace, Dominate the Ladder! Deep Dive into Popular TFT Compositions Across All Modes

Applicable Versions: S18, S17, S16.8, Chosen Fates This Issue's Recommendation: In Teamfight Tactics S18, high-cost compositions like Baby Academy Sylvan Veigar and the One-Shot Aatrox build (centered around Aatrox) have emerged as powerful tools for climbing. The current meta emphasizes flexible economic management and reaching key hero power spikes, making tempo control vital for success on the ladder.

Starfall (S17/S18)

Teemo's Latest Rhythmic Variation
SScaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
TeemoMain CarryNoneNone
RemnaSecondary CarryNoneNone
NasusSecondary CarryNoneNone
NamiSupportNoneNone
BlitzcrankSupportNoneNone

Playstyle

This is a core Teemo composition that scales by slowly building up high-cost units. It's suitable when you get many Teemo copies early or when recommended augments appear. Recommended Deities: Varus / Thresh. Synergy Composition: The main synergy is Space Groove (2/3/5), providing core damage and tempo control; auxiliary synergy is Heavy Hitters (2/4), providing frontline resistance; other transition synergy is Dark Star (2).

Early Game Transition (Stages 1-3): At 3 population, use 2 Heavy Hitters for transition. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. If your board is weak, prioritize losing streaks to disrupt opponent's Phantom. At 4 population, use 2 Space Groove for transition. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. Prioritize combat or item augments.

Mid Game Spike (Stages 4-5): At 5 population, use 2 Dark Star for transition. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. At this population, you need to roll for 3-star Teemo / Remna / Nasus while staying above 30 interest to then level up. At 6 population, use 4 Heavy Hitters for transition. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. Prioritize building items for Teemo or Remna, then Nami.

Late Game Refinement (Stages 6+): At 7 population, use 3 Space Groove for transition. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. If you picked "No Scout, No Pivot" and don't have Blitzcrank, it's best to prioritize activating 5 Space Groove or 4 Heavy Hitters. At 8 population, use 5 Space Groove for transition. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. Unless your HP is below 30, you should roll down for 2-star units here to secure a top finish. Otherwise, it's generally better to economy up to 9 for a stronger board. At 9 population, roll down for 2-star high-cost units to complete the composition. After maxing out your board, remember to observe opponents to prevent others from stealing 3-star 4-cost units by holding copies.

Recommended Augments: Prioritize Rekindled Wind, Empowered Energy, Wartime Supplies: Needlessly Large Rod, Pandora's Box, some Ascension, Two for One, No Scout, No Pivot, Portable Forge, Single Plated Vest, Piltover Winner, Baby Academy, Warrior's Glory.

Baby Academy Sylvan Veigar
T1Scaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
VeigarMain CarryNoneNone
RammusMain TankNoneNone
PoppySecondary TankNoneNone

Playstyle

This is a scaling composition that transitions into high-cost units, requiring good economic management and tempo control. Starting with Baby Academy or a 2-star Veigar is ideal.

Early Game Transition (Stages 1-3): At 4 population, transition with 3 Sylvan. If you have no strong units early, you can transition with Future Warrior / Ocean Master synergies. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest.

Mid Game Spike (Stages 4-5): At 5 population, transition with 2 Bastion Guard. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. If you get free copies of Veigar / Poppy (more than 6 copies each), consider rolling for them at this population. Otherwise, prioritize leveling up and waiting for 7 Sylvan to "paint out" 3-star. At 6 population, transition with 5 Sylvan. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. Prioritize combat or economic augments. At 7 population, transition with 1 Space Groove. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. You don't need to aggressively chase 3-star Veigar; subsequent 7 Sylvan can "paint" him.

Late Game Refinement (Stages 6+): At 8 population, roll down for 7 Sylvan and a 2-star Rammus to stabilize the composition. If your HP is below 30, only chase 3-star 4-cost units at this population. At 9 population, roll down for 2-star high-cost units to complete the composition. After maxing out your board, remember to observe opponents to prevent others from stealing 3-star 4-cost units by holding copies.

One-Shot Aatrox
T1Scaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
KindredMain CarryGuinsoo's Rageblade, Giant Slayer, Kraken SlayerNone
AatroxMain Tank/Main CarryWarmog's Armor, Gargoyle Stoneplate, Steadfast HeartNone

Playstyle

The core idea is to have Aatrox with three Steadfast Heart items to maximize his damage as his resistances increase. Combined with Nova Selector, Aatrox performs a full-screen knockup, dealing immense damage.

Early Game Transition (Stages 1-3): Transition with 3 Ocean Master. The key to economic management is not to aggressively level up to chase 3-star Aatrox.

Mid Game Spike (Stages 4-5): (No specific mid-game spike described; continue to manage economy and hold units.)

Late Game Refinement (Stages 6+): After 3-star Aatrox, level up to activate 5 Nova.

Recommended Augments

Nova Selector is the core augment. Prioritize choosing it.

Rhythmic Samira
SReroll

Difficulty: Easy | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
SamiraMain CarrySpear of Shojin, Edge of Night, Last Whisper
OrnnMain TankWarmog's Armor, Dragon's Claw, Spirit Visage

Playstyle

The recent patch strengthened Space Groove, allowing 7 Space Groove to stack damage infinitely for maximum output. Utilize the 7 Space Groove synergy to quickly roll for core 3-star units with a reroll strategy, forming a strong off-meta composition. Starting with a Space Groove Emblem, Treasure Hunter, or Doubled Durability augment is ideal.

Early Game Transition (Stages 1-3): Early on, use Future units for transition, equipping Sniper units with items as temporary carries. At 4 population, use 3 Space Groove synergy for transition. If your board quality is low early, use Future Warrior or Ocean Master synergies for transition. Prioritize saving 50 gold, relying on interest to level up.

Mid Game Spike (Stages 4-5): At 5 population, you can choose to transition with 2 Dark Star synergy. Prioritize saving 50 gold, relying on interest to level up. Prioritize choosing Treasure Hunter or Doubled Durability augments, or acquiring a Space Groove Emblem and many B.F. Swords is ideal. Roll down at level 7: Roll for 2-star Samira or 2-star Ornn to stabilize your HP. At this population stage, aim for 20 interest while rolling for 3-star Samira or 3-star Ornn before leveling up. If Blitzcrank appears early, you can prioritize activating 7 Space Groove.

Late Game Refinement (Stages 6+): At 8 population: Use 2 Sniper synergy for transition. If you don't have Blitzcrank, you can prioritize activating 3 Star Gazer synergy. At 9 population: Roll down for 2-star high-cost units within the composition to achieve its full strength. After maxing out your board, be sure to observe opponents for potential 3-star 4-cost unit stealing and hold copies. Level up to activate 7 Space Groove, and the composition is complete.

Ocean Master Challenger Jinx Pike Dual Carry
T0Scaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
JinxMain CarryNot mentionedNot mentioned
PykeSecondary CarryNot mentionedNot mentioned
GragasMain TankNot mentionedNot mentioned

Playstyle

This is a scaling composition that transitions into high-cost units. You can choose it if you start with 3 Ocean Master for transition or recommended augments. At 4 population, use 3 Ocean Master synergy for transition. If your board quality is insufficient early, you can transition with Future Warrior / Ocean Master synergy. Prioritize saving 50 gold, relying on interest to level up. At 5 population, use 2 Challenger synergy for transition, prioritizing saving 50 gold to level up using interest. Pay attention to whether the first Psychic Agent item is Malicious Program / Biomass Maintainer (ideal). At 6 population, use 2 Berserker synergy for transition. At this population, you need to stay above 20 interest to roll for 3-star Jinx / 3-star Gragas / Akali, then level up. At 7 population, use 2 Psychic Agent synergy for transition. If Akali reaches 3-star first, you can transfer Pyke's items to Akali. At 8 population, use 2 Nova Corps synergy for transition. If your HP is below 30, chase 3-star 4-cost heroes at this population. At 9 population, roll down for 2-star high-cost units within the composition to achieve its full strength. After maxing out your board, you need to observe opponent boards to prevent core 4-cost heroes from being stolen.

Star Gazer Xayah
T1Scaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
XayahMain CarryGuinsoo's Rageblade, Infinity Edge, Kraken Slayer
NunuMain TankSunfire Cape, Warmog's Armor, Stoneplate

Playstyle

Xayah's ability is greatly empowered, and with multiple synergies, her damage output is maximized. Early on, use Ocean Master or 3 Future for transition. If you have Showman, activate 3 Star Gazer for transition, using Sniper units as temporary item holders. Prioritize building core items and managing your economy. Roll down at level 8, and at level 9, add 2-star 5-cost units. Focus on positioning adjustments and targeted strategies.

Sylvan Gnar
T1Scaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
GnarMain CarryGuinsoo's Rageblade, Titan's Resolve, Bloodthirster
RammusMain TankWarmog's Armor, Gargoyle Stoneplate, Steadfast Heart

Playstyle

This is a scaling composition that transitions into high-cost units. You can consider it if you get 2 to 3 copies of Gnar early. Prioritize building items for Gnar, then for Rammus.

Early Game Transition (Stages 1-3): At 4 population, transition with 3 Sylvan. If you have no strong units early, you can transition with Future Warrior / Ocean Master synergies. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. Mid Game Spike (Stages 4-5): At 5 population, transition with 2 Bastion Guard. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. At 6 population, transition with 5 Sylvan. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. If you get 5 to 6 free copies of Gnar at level 6, consider rolling for 3-star here before leveling up. If you have too few Gnar copies, prioritize leveling up and giving items to Jhin later. At 7 population, transition with 2 Sniper. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. Prioritize economic or combat augments. Late Game Refinement (Stages 6+): At 8 population, roll down for a 2-star Rammus to then level up. If your HP is above 60, you can consider enduring to level 9 before rolling. If your HP is below 30 or more, pay attention to whether there are rivals, and consider rolling for 3-star 4-cost units at this population to secure first place. If rivals also have 2-star units, you can level up to 9 to increase the composition's上限 (cap/potential). At 9 population, roll down for 2-star high-cost units to complete the composition. After maxing out your board, remember to observe opponents to prevent others from stealing 3-star 4-cost units by holding copies.

Cosmic Big Bang (Sylvanette Exclusive)
T1Scaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
SylvanetteMain CarryHand of Justice, Jeweled Gauntlet, Edge of Night
MordekaiserMain TankSunfire Cape, Stoneplate, Warmog's Armor

Playstyle

The core idea of this composition is Sylvanette's exclusive augment, allowing her to repeatedly slam the ground for massive damage.

Mid Game Spike (Stages 4-5): If you have the Sylvanette exclusive augment, play this composition directly, prioritizing 3 Shepherd. Roll down at level 6 for 3-star core units. Late Game Refinement (Stages 6+): After 3-star core units, level up to add Rhaast.

Heavy Hitters 9-5 Nunu Nami Dual Carry
T0Scaling

Difficulty: High | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
NamiMain CarryNot mentionedNot mentioned
NunuSecondary CarryNot mentionedNot mentioned
Heavy HittersMain TankNot mentionedNot mentioned

Playstyle

This is a high-cost scaling composition that, once completed, offers board-clearing capabilities and is extremely strong. If you start with high-quality Shepherd units and can maintain a win streak, prioritize this composition. It has high difficulty, requiring mastery of economic management and rolling timings.

Early Game Transition (Stages 1-3): At 4 population, use 2 Heavy Hitters for transition. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. If your board quality is poor at the start, consider transitioning with Future Warrior or Ocean Master synergies. Mid Game Spike (Stages 4-5): At 5 population, use 3 Shepherd for transition. At 6 population, use 2 Judge for transition. At 7 population, use 3 Heavy Hitters for transition. In terms of economic management, still prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. At 5 population, prioritize building items for Sona and Nunu, using them as temporary items for your backline and frontline, then transferring them to your final carries later. At 7 population, prioritize economic or combat augments. The Judge effect is best if it provides free rerolls or gold income. Late Game Refinement (Stages 6+): At 8 population, roll down for 2-star Nami and 2-star Nunu to stabilize your HP and prepare to level up. At 9 population, roll down for 2-star high-cost units within the composition to achieve its full strength. If your HP is above 60, you can consider enduring to level 9 before rolling down. If your HP is below 30 and there are rivals, you can consider rolling for 3-star 4-cost units at this population to secure first place. If rivals also have 2-star units, you can level up to 9 to increase the composition's potential. After maxing out your board, you need to observe opponent boards to prevent 3-star 4-cost units from being stolen, and hold copies.

Nova Kindred 2.0
T1Scaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
KindredMain CarryGuinsoo's Rageblade, Giant Slayer, Kraken Slayer
Tahm KenchMain TankSunfire Cape, Spirit Visage, Stoneplate

Playstyle

Nova Corps attribute is maximized, making it a strong off-meta option with no rivals. Early on, use Ocean Master for transition, with Gragas holding attack speed items as a temporary carry. Prioritize combat to secure a win streak. At level 8, decide whether to roll for quality to stabilize HP or level to 9 for more high-cost units, depending on your HP.

Hero Augment - Gragas
SScaling

Difficulty: Easy | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Consistently Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
GragasMain CarryArmguard, Luden's EchoShared Sense, Hand of Justice

Playstyle

The Gragas Hero Augment performs better with Shared Sense. For augments and Deities, aim for those that maximize explosive damage. It's best if two abilities can eliminate the enemy's main tank. Position Gragas in the middle of the first row, with only your two strongest tanks on either side to group enemies for more damage. Place Pyke in the back row to make it easier to hook backline targets. The greatest boosts from Artifacts are Armguard and Luden's Echo. If you don't have Shared Sense, replace it with Shared Sense. If you have it, replace Hand of Justice. Just focus on explosive damage.

Hero Augment - Jax
AScaling

Difficulty: Easy | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Consistently Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
JaxMain CarryEdge of NightGuinsoo's Rageblade
JaxArtifactAny Warrior ArtifactWisdom

Playstyle

The off-meta Star Gazer, Huntress, Altar, Wild Boar data for Jax is actually better than Medal, Spring, Showman because it's unlikely anyone else will want Jax. Overall, Viper is the strongest, providing a significant damage reduction boost. As more big data samples become available, Edge of Night has proven far stronger than Guinsoo's Rageblade. For Artifacts, almost all Warrior Artifacts can be used, with Wisdom being the strongest.

Hero Augment - Zed
AScaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Consistently Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
ZedMain CarryZhonya's HourglassEdge of Night
ZedMain CarryOther Special ItemsHelm

Playstyle

Zed can theoretically fit into any composition. The simplest and strongest formula is to replace Graves in Nova 9-5, as there aren't many B.F. Swords. In the frontline, Maokai and Tahm Kench perform better than Blitzcrank and Nunu because Maokai can help Zed heal. When you can't play 9-5, Teamfight Tactics lacks strong physical 8-4 compositions, making it a bit stuck, while Cloud Teamfight Tactics can seamlessly integrate into Corki and Master Yi systems.

Closed Loop Spring Lulu
T1Scaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
LuluMain CarryNashor's Tooth, Nashor's Tooth, Jeweled GauntletNone
MaokaiMain TankWarmog's Armor, Gargoyle Stoneplate, Spirit VisageNone

Playstyle

The core idea of this composition is to instantly eliminate backline units with a "rain of fish". Lulu's spring effect can hit up to 6 units at once, forming a closed-loop synergy. Additionally, amplified hexes provide healing and damage increase per second. Early on, use 3 Star Gazer for synergy transition. Roll down at level 7 for 3-star core units. After getting 3-star Lulu and 3-star frontliners, level up. Check the Star Gazer effect at the start; if "Spring" is available, this comp is viable.

Shepherd Aurelion Sol Nami
T1Scaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
Aurelion SolMain CarryJeweled Gauntlet, Rabadon's Deathcap, Giant Slayer
GalioMain TankStoneplate, Stoneplate, Sterak's Gage

Playstyle

The core of this composition is the strong combination of Aurelion Sol and Nami, activating perfect synergies at level 8. Early on, use Shepherd for synergy transition, with Teemo or Lissandra holding items as temporary carries. Mid-game focuses on assembling Heavy Hitter units. At level 8, roll down for all 2-star units. If there are no rivals in the game, consider chasing 3-star 4-cost units or adding Redeemer at level 9 for a higher ceiling.

Off-Meta High-Cost Scaling Xayah Nunu
T2Scaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐ | Rank-Up Comp

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
XayahMain CarryRapid Firecannon, Titanic Hydra, Fishbones

Playstyle

This is a high-cost scaling composition that's an off-meta rank-up style. It's ideal if you start with Xayah or recommended Ornn Artifacts and many attack speed items. Early on, at 4 population, use 2 Sniper, 2 Bastion Guard for transition. Prioritize saving 50 gold to level up using interest. If you have no strong units at the start, you can transition with Future Warrior or Ocean Master synergies. At 5 population, use 2 Nova Corps for transition. At 6 population, add 1 Redeemer. At 7 population, add 2 Brawler. Prioritize item or combat augments; if you get an Artifact augment or Ekko as a Deity, take them to increase the composition's potential. At 8 population, roll down for 2-star Xayah and 2-star Nunu to complete the composition. Pay attention to whether there are rivals, and consider rolling for 3-star 4-cost units at this population to secure first place. If rivals also have 2-star units, you can level up to 9 to increase the composition's potential. At 9 population, roll down for 2-star high-cost units to complete the composition. After maxing out your board, remember to observe opponents to prevent others from stealing 3-star 4-cost units by holding copies.

Apocalyptic Shadow Zed
T0Scaling

Difficulty: High | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
ZedMain CarrySpear of Shojin, Edge of Night, HelmSecond Spear of Shojin, Various Artifacts
VexSecondary CarryGuinsoo's RagebladeNone
GravesSecondary CarryPhysical Fighter Items, Spear of ShojinNone
NunuMain TankFrozen Heart, Any Tank ItemZhonya's Hourglass, Death's Dance, Evelynn, Rapid Firecannon

Playstyle

This Nova Zed is a branch of the Nova 9-5 composition. Zed's core mechanic is that his clones inherit item stats and can clone infinitely, resulting in absurd damage density. Once completed, it's basically a T0-tier composition with a very high ceiling. You can transition normally with a win streak early, using 3 Ocean Master with fighter items or Gragas with attack speed items. Prioritize building Edge of Night and Guinsoo's Rageblade. Mid-game usually stabilizes around 4-5 / 5-1. It's accustomed to rolling down at level 9, similar to the Nova 9-5 pace. It's not recommended to play losing streaks; you need HP to last until 4-2 to find Zed. If you are on a losing streak early and your HP is dangerously low, roll down appropriately at 4-2 to preserve quality. Apocalyptic Shadow (exclusive to Zed) is a must-pick augment. Additionally, you can choose Large Economy Augments or Ahri (as a Deity) to help you reach level 9 faster to find 2-star Zed. Position Zed in the backline or in a corner.

Dark Star Lissandra Cho'Gath
T1Scaling

Difficulty: Newbie Friendly | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Consistently Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
Cho'GathMain Carry/Main TankWarmog's Armor, Gargoyle Stoneplate, Frozen Heart
LissandraSecondary CarryNashor's Tooth, Rabadon's Deathcap, Defender Breaker

Playstyle

This composition is the 2.0 version of the 10k HP Cho'Gath, achieving infinite growth through Dark Star's massive quality boost and 3-star Cho'Gath, making him both tanky and damaging. Early on, pick reroll augments and avoid leveling up aggressively to chase 3-star Cho'Gath. Mid-game, transition with Future, Brawler, and Dark Star. Late game, at level 9, find Jhin to activate 6 Dark Star.

Infinite Shield Diana
T0Reroll

Difficulty: Easy | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Consistently Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
DianaMain CarryTitan's Resolve, Guinsoo's Rageblade, BloodthirsterHand of Justice, Hextech Gunblade
AuroraSecondary CarryRabadon's Deathcap, Morellonomicon, Void Staff
IllaoiMain TankWarmog's Armor, Dragon's Claw, Spirit VisageBramble Vest
JinxEarly Game TemporaryBattle Bunny Crossbow, Guinsoo's Rageblade, Infinity EdgeLast Whisper

Playstyle

Prioritize starting with 3 Phantom to go on a losing streak, steadily stacking 300-500 stacks of Battle Bunny Crossbow for Jinx to carry through transition. Throughout the game, prioritize grabbing items to complete Diana's core three items. At 7 population, light roll for 2-star core units to stabilize HP, then slowly chase 3-star Diana; if LeBlanc hasn't appeared, you can substitute with 3 Shepherd or 3 Judge units as temporary carries. Do not level up before getting core 3-stars. At 8 population, after 3-star Diana, prioritize adding Galio to strengthen frontline tankiness, then save 50 interest to slowly level up, ensuring a healthy economy. At 9 population, complete the composition by adding Karma to activate 4 Traveler synergy. For excess items, prioritize frontline tank items, AP items for Aurora, and AD items for Jinx. Then, slowly chase 3-star 4-cost units to further stabilize HP and secure the win. The Judge's Karma effect, which provides a +15% HP shield after 10 damage instances, synergizes with Diana's own shield, creating infinite shields, making the frontline virtually unkillable. If you cannot get 3 Phantom or have a large losing streak at the start, leading to insufficient Battle Bunny Crossbow stacks, the composition's strength will be severely impacted. Diana and Aurora are fixed dual carries. Later, you can chase 3-star LeBlanc as a replacement for a higher ceiling; the frontline can flexibly substitute with other high-tankiness units.

Judge Iron Assailant
T0Scaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
LeBlancMain CarryGuinsoo's Rageblade, Jeweled Gauntlet, Archangel's StaffRabadon's Deathcap, Giant Shark Warmonger, Defender Breaker
KarmaSecondary Carry/SupportSpear of Shojin, Morellonomicon, Zz'Rot Portal
IllaoiMain TankSteadfast Heart, Warmog's Armor, Spirit VisageDragon's Claw, Bramble Vest, Frozen Heart
NunuTankExcess Defensive Items

Playstyle

Early on, rely on Heavy Hitter units paired with backline carries for a stable transition, such as Illaoi, Nunu, etc. Prioritize synthesizing LeBlanc's core offensive items, such as Guinsoo's Rageblade and Jeweled Gauntlet. At the start of the game, immediately check the Judge refresh options, prioritizing the "Every 4 seconds + 10 Mana" option. Focus on saving gold early and avoid blindly rolling. Prioritize activating 4 Heavy Hitter synergy to stabilize your HP, using strong 2-star units to maintain board strength. At stage 4-2, level up to 8 population precisely, focusing on rolling for core LeBlanc and completing the 4 Heavy Hitter system. Once all units are 2-star, you gain HP stabilization. If you have plenty of copies, you can push for 3-star LeBlanc to raise the ceiling. Level up to 9 to complete the final composition change, replacing Sylvanette and adding Nasus and Blitzcrank to activate 6 Heavy Hitter synergy. Distribute excess defensive items to Nunu to further boost the frontline's overall damage absorption. Position Heavy Hitter units in the front to form a solid defense, while offensive units like LeBlanc and Karma are safely placed in the backline. Adjust LeBlanc's positioning flexibly based on enemy infiltrators or area-of-effect damage to ensure her optimal damage output. If the Judge option at the start provides a health shield effect, you can immediately abandon the "Iron Assailant" composition and directly switch to playing "Infinite Shield Diana", allowing for flexible gameplay.

Star Seeker Jax
T0Scaling

Difficulty: Easy | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
JaxMain CarryBloodthirster, Titan's Resolve, Guinsoo's RagebladeRabadon's Deathcap, Edge of Night
Milio / LuluSecondary CarrySpear of Shojin, Rabadon's Deathcap, Jeweled Gauntlet
PantheonMain TankSunfire Cape, Warmog's Armor, Stoneplate

Jax Artifact Recommendations: Rapid Firecannon, Spear of Shojin, Wit's End, Fingerless Glove (Artifact).

Playstyle

Early on, don't rush to level up. After getting "Star Seeker" at 2-1, use Twisted Fate, Talon to activate 3 Star Gazer, then save money for interest. If you already have 3 Star Gazer plus a 2-star frontline, and Jax has at least one item, you can aim for a win streak from the start. At 3-2, level up to 6. This is the most crucial roll-down. Roll heavily to around 30 gold, finding 2-star Jax and the foundational units of the composition. 2-star Jax is strong early and can support a slow roll for 3-star. Slow roll, keeping around 30 / 50 gold. You must get 3-star Jax before 4-1. After 3-star Jax, save money to level up. Prioritize chasing 3-star Jax, then 3-star Pantheon and Milio. One 3-star unit in the front and one in the back is enough to go to level 7, then 8, no need to wait for all of them. At level 8, add Rhaast with Kayn (or Morgana). If possible, continue chasing Lulu and Maokai. The game generally finishes at level 8. If HP is healthy, level to 9 for 5-cost units. Recommended position is the left corner position. Adjust flexibly based on Star Gazer's position. Pantheon is the strongest main tank. If he doesn't appear, he can be replaced by Maokai or Rammus. If none, find other tanks. Secondary carries can be other 2-star 4-cost or 5-cost offensive heroes.

Oracle Laser Aurelion Sol
T0.5Scaling

Difficulty: High | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended Items
Aurelion SolMain CarryJeweled Gauntlet, Rabadon's Deathcap, Striker's Flail
NunuMain TankFrozen Heart, Stoneplate, Sterak's Gage

Playstyle

Oracle Laser Aurelion Sol is a popular composition in the current patch, especially strong against single-tank compositions, rapidly clearing their HP. The core lies in the pure burst damage from 2-star 4-cost frontliners and 2-star Aurelion Sol, and activating 3 Oracle at level 9 for a higher ceiling. This is not a mindless composition; it requires precise economic tempo and itemization. If you can roll for 2-star frontliners and 2-star Aurelion Sol within the first few rounds of Stage 4, you can consistently stabilize HP and secure a top finish. It's slightly weaker than T0 compositions, but can consistently place top 4. When other compositions are not going well, it serves as a strong alternative. It has a high skill ceiling and is not suitable for mindless play, recommended for players familiar with mid-game transitions and economic management. At stage 4-2, level up to 8 and begin rolling for 2-star Aurelion Sol and 2-star frontliners. 4-2 is the crucial rolling timing; leveling up too early will crash your economy, while too late might result in being defeated by other completed compositions. Prioritize building Aurelion Sol's Jeweled Gauntlet and the main tank's Frozen Heart, then complete Aurelion Sol's second offensive item and the frontline's tank items. If HP is healthy, economy is good, and units are appearing smoothly, level up to 9 to add Bard or Sona, activating 3 Oracle for a higher ceiling. Position Aurelion Sol safely in a corner for output, with the main tank at the very front to absorb damage. The frontline can be spread out or single-stacked. Prioritize economic augments, such as "Ahri" (provides gold and experience) or other augments that help you reach 8 population by 4-2, ensuring enough gold for rolling.

Genius Inventor Zoe
T0Scaling

Difficulty: Easy | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Consistently Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended Items
ZoeMain CarryRabadon's Deathcap, Jeweled Gauntlet, Magic Penetration, Ekko's Patience
LeonaMain TankStoneplate, Dragon's Claw, Spirit Visage, Ionic Spark

Playstyle

The core of this composition is the Judge synergy's +mana effect after 10 damage instances, combined with Ekko's Patience item, achieving an infinite spellcasting perpetual motion machine for Zoe, dealing massive damage. This is a T0-tier, high-strength composition that is relatively easy to play, suitable for players seeking high burst and infinite spellcasting. Early on, prioritize using Ocean Master synergy to randomly acquire Leona and Zoe. At level 5, you can activate 2 Future Warrior to increase reroll chances, aiming to roll down before level 6 and find 3-star Zoe in one go. Mid-game, when the Judge's 10 damage and mana regen effects can synergize with Ekko's Patience, you achieve infinite spellcasting. Prioritize securing Zoe's key items. Late game, level up to add higher quality heroes. Use Nunu as a control point, and LeBlanc and Karma provide additional value and utility. Prioritize Divine Forge, Dormant Forge, Exalted Adventure augments. For special augments, choose Yasuo's Starlight Cell or Varus's Replicator. The composition's advantage is Zoe's infinite spellcasting, providing high burst and sustained damage. For climbing, focus on securing early to mid-game tempo, rapidly reaching 3-star Zoe and assembling core items.

Infinite Laser Aurelion Sol
T0Scaling

Difficulty: Easy | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended Items
Aurelion SolMain CarryJeweled Gauntlet, Rabadon's Deathcap, Rabadon's Deathcap
KarmaSupport/Secondary CarrySpear of Shojin, Morellonomicon, Void Staff
NunuMain TankFrozen Heart, Sunfire Cape, Helm

Playstyle

In Teamfight Tactics S17 Starfall set, patch 17.3, "Infinite Laser Aurelion Sol" has become a dominant choice. This patch significantly buffed Aurelion Sol's overall stats, transforming his damage output. The composition is built around Aurelion Sol as a pure damage system, utilizing Oracle synergy for efficient mana regeneration, continuously unleashing lasers to overwhelm opponents. It's easy to play and user-friendly, suitable for both beginners and casual players. Early on, prioritize Shepherd synergy for transition. Pre-build Aurelion Sol's items on Lissandra as a temporary carry. For Starfall Blessing, prioritize AP-related items to synthesize Aurelion Sol's core item, Rabadon's Deathcap, as early as possible. Alternatively, you can go for a Phantom losing streak to accumulate resources. Mid-game, around stages 4-1 to 4-2, level up to 8 and start rolling for the entire core composition, getting key units to 2-star to stabilize HP. If you can't activate 4 Heavy Hitter synergy, use Galio as a temporary frontliner to ensure overall tankiness. Late game, once Aurelion Sol reaches 2-star, push aggressively for higher levels. At 9 population, add 3 Oracle synergy to accelerate skill cooldowns. Prioritize resistance reduction items to maximize Aurelion Sol's laser damage. You can also add Rhaast for additional utility. Recommended augments include economic ones (Four-Cost Team, Late Game Specialist, etc.) and offensive ones (Seraph's Embrace, Tailored, etc.).

Nova 9-5
T0.5Scaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
GravesMain CarryRuthless SlashTitanic Hydra, Demonic Hatchet, Statikk Shiv
FioraPhysical CarryQuicksilver / Edge of Night, Giant Slayer, Sterak's GageNone
VexMagic CarryGuinsoo's Rageblade, Defender Breaker, Hextech GunbladeNone
Tahm Kench / NunuMain TankSunfire Cape, Warmog's Armor, StoneplateNone

Playstyle

This is a high-cost scaling composition that focuses on economic management and hitting powerful high-cost units in the late game to dominate the board. The core carry is Graves, with priority on the Fighter template, then continuously clicking Lead Shot until Laser Barrage appears. After the hotfix, the chance of hitting 3-star 4-costs to "chicken steal" has decreased. This is currently the highest win rate composition; it's the top choice if your economy is good. It revolves around Aatrox and Akali from the Nova synergy. Aatrox provides resistance reduction for all units, and Akali grants critical strike to all, greatly boosting the damage of 5-cost units like Graves, Fiora, and Vex. The composition typically stabilizes at level 9, consisting of Aatrox, Akali, Maokai, Tahm Kench, Fiora, Shen, Morgana, and Graves, forming multiple synergies. Early on, prioritize 3 Ocean Master with fighter items or Gragas with attack speed items for transition. Depending on economy, HP, and the presence of rivals, choose to roll down at 4-2 / 4-5 / 4-7 to level 9. If HP is around 50, roll for 2-star main tank + two 2-star carries before going to 10. After maxing out your board, be sure to observe opponent boards to prevent 3-star 4-cost units from being stolen, and hold copies.

Mecha-Flex
T0.5Scaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Newly Popular

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
Aurelion SolMain CarryJeweled Gauntlet, Rabadon's Deathcap, Defender BreakerVoid Staff
GalioMain TankStoneplate, Sterak's Gage, Titan's ResolveFrozen Heart, Spirit Visage
Master YiSecondary CarryExcess Fighter ItemsNone

Playstyle

This is currently the easiest 4-cost composition to play on a losing streak and stabilize HP. Its structure is flexible and cost-effective, especially suitable for transitioning with AP/tank items or starting with a losing streak. In Teamfight Tactics, Aurelion Sol's ability can directly bypass the frontline to hit the backline, making it a T0.5 strength that you can force every game. The standard composition combines Urgot, Viktor, Galio, Tahm Kench, Master Yi, Aurelion Sol to form 6 Mecha, 2 Brawler, 2 Berserker, 2 Psychic. This composition, paired with Tahm Kench's solo synergy effect, makes it easy to "steal" 3-star 4-cost units. Early on, use 2 Future / 3 Phantom / 3 Ocean Master for transition, accumulating gold and perfect items. Around 4-2, roll heavily at level 8. Based on the units you find, assemble the recommended composition, remembering to transform all Mecha units. Once Aurelion Sol and Galio are 2-star, save gold and decide whether to level up to 9 or chase 3-stars based on your opponents.

Three Stoneplate Full-Screen Stun Aatrox
T2Scaling

Difficulty: Medium | Recommendation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Rank-Up Comp

Core Items

HeroRoleRecommended ItemsAlternative Items
AatroxMain Carry/ControlSteadfast Heart x3

Playstyle

The core of this composition centers around Aatrox (Aatrox), utilizing three Steadfast Heart items combined with Nova Corps synergy to achieve full-screen stun control. It's an off-meta option suitable for climbing. Consider it if you get multiple Aatrox copies or many Stoneplate items early.

Early Game Transition (Stages 1-3): At 3 population, use 3 Ocean Master for transition. Prioritize accumulating 50 gold for interest to level up, while using Ocean Master synergy to earn gold and acquire units.

Mid Game Spike (Stages 4-5): At 4 population, use 2 Berserker for transition, continuing to maintain 50 gold interest. At this stage, you can stay above 30 gold interest to roll for 3-star Aatrox. If you have many Caitlyn copies, you can also chase 3-star Caitlyn simultaneously. At 5 population, use 2 Nova Corps for transition, continuing to save gold to level up. Prioritize combat or item augments.

Late Game Refinement (Stages 6+): At 6 population, use 2 Brawler for transition, continuing to save gold to level up. If you have a Nova Corps emblem, consider replacing Caitlyn with Yi or another 5-cost unit. At 7 population, transition to 4 Nova Corps. If you can activate 5 Nova Corps, you will get a selector that directly grants Aatrox a special full-screen stun ability. At 8 population, roll down for 2-star Kindred to mostly complete the composition. If your HP is below 30, you can chase 3-star 4-cost heroes at this population. At 9 population, continue rolling for 2-star high-cost units within the composition to achieve its full strength. After maxing out your board, you need to observe opponents to prevent 3-star 4-cost units from being stolen.

Advanced Practical Advice

  1. Utilizing S17 Mecha Aurelion Sol's Backline Bypass Mechanism: In Teamfight Tactics S17's version of Aurelion Sol, his ability can directly bypass the frontline to damage enemy backline units, giving Mecha compositions a huge advantage against traditional, heavily fortified frontlines. For positioning, consider placing Aurelion Sol diagonally opposite the enemy's main carry to maximize his damage efficiency. Additionally, combining this with Galio's tankiness and crowd control can effectively protect Aurelion Sol and create a favorable environment for him to deal damage.

  2. Flexible Economic Management for High-Cost Compositions: For high-cost scaling compositions, accumulating gold early is crucial. Besides traditional economic augments, you can also use 3 Ocean Master or 2 Future for win streak transitions, or gain benefits from losing streaks with Phantom. Given the special mechanic of 2-cost units appearing in Stage 2, prioritize using 3 Ocean Master for a win streak transition. When rolling down in the mid-game, flexibly assess your HP and the presence of rivals to decide whether to level up to 9 for 5-cost units or to chase 3-star 4-cost units at level 8, avoiding economic and HP crashes by forcing levels.

  3. Item Priority and Flexible Adaptation for Multi-Core Carry Compositions: In multi-core compositions like Star Gazer Sniper Xayah and Sylvan 9-5 Jhin, it is crucial to prioritize the core offensive items for your main carry, Xayah / Jhin. At the same time, items for secondary carries like Jhin / Vex should follow closely. Flexibly adjust positioning to counter different opponents, ensuring your core offensive heroes have safe space to deal damage. In the late game, adjust item configurations as the battle progresses to ensure the multi-core carry advantage is fully utilized.

  4. Phantom Stacks and Core Hero Upgrades: For optimizing Phantom stacks, Aurelion Sol and Nova 9-5 perform best when Phantom stacks reach 400 or 500. For the Judge Diana playstyle, Phantom stacks of 200 or 300 are recommended. For Graves's upgrades, the Drawn Blade / Pineapple Graves combination is currently the best.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

In the early stages of S17, the tempo is relatively slow. Prioritize using 3 Ocean Master for a win streak transition or 2 Future for an economic losing streak. In this environment, high-cost 9-5 and compositions that "steal" 3-star 4-costs are the best for securing wins. If your early game transition is smooth and your economy is healthy, you can choose Nova 9-5. If you want to roll for quality at level 8, Mecha-Flex is also an excellent choice due to its unique mechanics and stable strength. For beginners or players with a rough start, rerolling 3-cost compositions like Starfall Weave Twisted Fate are good strategies for securing a top finish.

The main operational difficulty for these two 10k HP compositions lies in their extreme reliance on specific Chosen units and core items. Zilean requires 3-star and full items to consistently revive all allies and stack HP; Irelia needs the Jadeblade Chosen and fixed items like Archangel's Staff, Titan's Resolve, and Bloodthirster to achieve 10k HP true damage. If you cannot get the crucial Chosen unit or core items early, it will significantly impact the composition's strength and win rate. Furthermore, you need to be wary of champions like Lee Sin and Seraphine, who can remove units, as they are natural counters to 10k HP compositions.

For S16.8 systems like Demacia Mel and Freljord Zilean, when facing magic damage compositions, Demacia Mel's Taric provides magic resist, while Freljord Zilean relies on Ornn's tankiness and dual ice turret control. You can prioritize stacking magic resist items like Dragon's Claw and Spirit Visage on your frontline. When facing physical damage compositions, focus more on physical defense items like Stoneplate and Bramble Vest. Additionally, Freljord's synergy provides resistance reduction and damage amplification to all output, and Demacia's Radiant Items can be adjusted based on the carry's damage type, for example, giving Mel or Lux magic burst items, or Shyvana physical sustain items, to allow for flexible adaptation.