Aatrox is a powerful drain tank fighter who excels in top lane through his sustain and crowd control abilities. His playstyle revolves around managing his abilities effectively while maintaining consistent damage output to maximize healing.

Core Abilities Priority

• Max Order: R > Q > E > W
• Level 1-3: Q → E → W

Key Ability Information:

• Q (The Darkin Blade): Main damage source and CC ability with 3 knock-ups
• E (Umbral Dash): Provides mobility and lifesteal
• W (Infernal Chains): CC chain potential with slow and pull
• R (World Ender): Enhances damage, movement speed, and healing

Basic Combo:

1. First Q knock-up
2. Apply W
3. Second Q to ensure W pull
4. Third Q for maximum damage
5. Weave E dashes to reposition Q sweet spots

Item Build Path:

Starting Items:

• Doran's Blade
• Health Potion

Core Items:

• Eclipse/Goredrinker
• Black Cleaver
• Death's Dance

Situational Items:

• Maw of Malmortius (vs AP)
• Guardian Angel (when ahead)
• Spirit Visage (enhance healing)
• Thornmail (vs heavy AD)

Key Strengths:

• Exceptional drain tank capabilities
• Strong teamfight presence
• Powerful lane bully
• Good scaling with items

Main Weaknesses:

• Vulnerable to chain CC
• Relies on hitting ability sweet spots
• Must deal damage to sustain
• Can be kited by mobile champions

Combat Strategy:

• Engage when ultimate is available
• Position to hit Q sweet spots
• Use E to reposition during fights
• Chain CC with W after landing first Q
• Focus on backline targets in teamfights
• Maintain damage output to maximize healing

This champion excels at sustained teamfights and can single-handedly turn battles when played correctly. Success with Aatrox comes from mastering his ability combinations and understanding when to engage.

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