Zed is an AD assassin who excels at eliminating high-priority targets through swift and calculated engagements. As the leader of the Order of Shadows, he wields forbidden shadow magic that allows him to outmaneuver opponents and deliver lethal damage combinations.

Core Abilities Sequence:

• Primary max: Q (Razor Shuriken)
• Secondary: E (Shadow Slash)
• Third: W (Living Shadow)
• Ultimate: R (Death Mark) at levels 6/11/16

Basic Ability Mechanics:

• Q: Throws shurikens that deal physical damage
• W: Creates a shadow that mimics abilities and allows position swapping
• E: Deals AoE damage and slows when hit by shadow
• R: Marks target for death, becoming untargetable and dealing delayed damage

Key Combos:

1. Standard Trade Combo:

   • W > E > Q (Poke from safe distance)

2. All-in Combo:

   • R > W > E > Q > Auto Attack
   • Finish with R reactivation

3. Safe Ranged Combo:

   • W > R > W > E > Q (Maintains safe distance)

4. Extended Fight Combo:

   • W > E > Q > R > W > E > Q > R (For tanky opponents)

Starting Items:

• Long Sword + 3 Health Potions
• Refillable Potion (alternative)

Core Build:

1. Eclipse/Duskblade of Draktharr
2. Youmuu's Ghostblade
3. Serylda's Grudge
4. Black Cleaver

Situational Items:

• Edge of Night (vs CC)
• Maw of Malmortius (vs AP)
• Guardian Angel (late game security)

Playstyle Tips:

• Use W wisely as it's your main escape tool
• Track enemy CC abilities before engaging
• Focus on farming safely until level 3
• Look for roaming opportunities post-6
• Time your ultimate to dodge crucial abilities
• Manage your energy efficiently in extended trades

Lane Matchups:

• Strong vs: Immobile mages
• Weak vs: Tanks, heavy CC champions
• Even vs: Most assassins

Remember that Zed requires significant practice to master his shadow mechanics and combo timings. Success with this champion comes from understanding both your damage potential and limitations at different stages of the game.

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