The Rise of Shadow Isles
In patch 13.16, Riot made balance adjustments to the Shadow Isles tribe. Specifically, the shield amount and energy regeneration at the 2 champion mark have been increased, while these stats have been slightly reduced at the 6 activation mark. Therefore, the strength of the Shadow Isles tribe at the beginning of the game appears to be significantly greater compared to the previous version.
Not stopping there, the 2 core champions of the Shadow Isles in the early and mid-game, Viego and Kalista, have both been buffed. As a result, this tribe has more stable strength at the beginning of the game, helping players to achieve long win streaks. Moreover, the popularity of the URF Legend also greatly benefits compositions that require items like Shadow Isles.
Building the Shadow Isles Composition
Players should start with quality 1-cost champions like Viego, Maokai, and Samira. Irelia is also a unit worth purchasing to ensure the team’s durability. Items for the core champion in the later stages should be assembled for Samira to ensure damage output.
In the mid-game, players should aim for the 4 Guardian mark to ensure the team’s durability. Combined with the significant damage output from Kalista or Samira, achieving a win streak during this phase will become quite simple. A small tip is that at level 7, Soraka will be a very suitable unit when activating the 2 Targon, 2 Mystic mark with Taric, Shen, significantly increasing the team’s durability.
After reaching level 8, players should use their gold to upgrade Gwen or seek out Senna. In case there are many items from the URF Legend, the 6 Shadow Isles mark will significantly strengthen the composition. K’Sante is also a strong unit at this time, ensuring both the 4 Guardian mark and providing good crowd control.
Regarding Legend choices, URF will be a priority for players as it provides the opportunity to obtain Shadow Isles or Guardian items. In terms of equipment, Kalista will need at least 2 Guinsoo’s Rageblade to ensure the necessary attack speed. Gwen will utilize magical items like Archangel’s Gloves, Hextech Gunblade, or Hand of Justice.
Conclusion
With Riot Games favorably buffing it in the new patch, the Shadow Isles composition has risen to the top of the meta. Players should likely take advantage of this composition to rank up more effectively in the new version.