
Karthus Champion Guide: Mastering The Deathsinger in Patch 15.4.1
Karthus is a powerful AP mage known for his global presence and sustained damage output. His unique passive "Defy Death" allows him to continue casting spells after death, making him a constant threat in teamfights.
Core Abilities:
- Q (Devastate): Main damage ability and farming tool. Deals double damage to isolated targets
- W (Wall of Pain): Creates a wall that slows enemies and reduces magic resistance by 15%
- E (Annihilation): Toggleable AoE damage, restores mana on unit kills
- R (Requiem): Global ultimate that damages all enemy champions
Skill Order Priority: Q > E > W > R
- Max Q first for damage and waveclear
- Points in E help with mana sustain
- W maxed last as utility spell
- Take R at levels 6/11/16
Early Game Tips:
- Focus on farming with Q
- Conserve mana until Lost Chapter
- Look for isolated Q hits on enemies
- Coordinate with CC supports for kills
Optimal Team Composition:
- Works best as sole AP damage source
- Thrives with AD-heavy teams
- Excels at area control and sustained damage
- Global pressure with ultimate
Building Path:
- Starting items: Doran's Ring + 2 potions
- Rush Lost Chapter for mana sustain
- Core items: Liandry's Torment, Shadowflame
- Situational: Zhonya's, Void Staff, Rabadon's
Strengths:
- Exceptional teamfight damage
- Global map pressure
- Strong scaling
- Effective even after death
Weaknesses:
- Immobile
- Mana hungry early
- Skill-shot reliant
- Vulnerable to assassins
Play Pattern:
- Farm safely with Q
- Position behind team in fights
- Use ultimate to secure kills or assist other lanes
- Zone control with W and E in objectives
This champion excels at dealing consistent magic damage while providing global pressure through Requiem. Perfect for players who enjoy strategic positioning and managing sustained damage output.