
Skarner Champion Guide: Complete Build, Runes and Abilities in Patch 15.4.1
Crystal Vanguard Skarner excels as a durable jungler and initiator, specializing in crowd control and team fight disruption.
Core Abilities Progression:
- Start Q (Crystal Slash) at Level 1
- E (Fracture) at Level 2
- W (Crystalline Exoskeleton) at Level 3
- Maximize Q > W > E
- Take R (Impale) at 6/11/16
Key Strengths:
- Reliable crowd control
- Exceptional durability
- Strong objective control
- Powerful engagement potential
Optimal Skill Usage: Q provides consistent damage and is crucial for jungle clearing. E offers ranged crowd control, while W grants defensive stats and movement speed. Maximize Q first for clear speed, followed by W for enhanced survivability.
Core Build Path: Starting Items:
- Emberknife
- Refillable Potion
Core Items:
- Turbo Chemtank
- Plated Steelcaps
- Dead Man's Plate
- Force of Nature
- Thornmail
Situational Items:
- Randuin's Omen (vs heavy AD)
- Spirit Visage (vs magic damage)
- Demonic Embrace (for damage)
Gameplay Strategy: Early Game:
- Focus on efficient clearing
- Look for ganks post-level 3
- Secure early objectives with team
Mid Game:
- Initiate team fights with Flash + R
- Control neutral objectives
- Protect carries from threats
Late Game:
- Engage strategically in team fights
- Focus high-priority targets
- Zone enemies from objectives
This champion excels as a frontline initiator, using his ultimate to create pick opportunities while maintaining strong objective control through his durability and sustained damage.
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