As we know, in the latest patch of Teamfight Tactics, Riot Games has reduced the power of several 3-cost carries like Olaf, Lee Sin, and Diana. This is to prevent compositions revolving around 3-cost champions from becoming overwhelmingly strong and negatively impacting the overall gameplay.
Naturally, Riot hasn’t completely eliminated this playstyle as they have also slightly buffed some other carries to allow them to shine, with Swain being a prime example.
Essentially, a composition centered around Swain will leverage this champion’s powerful spell damage as its core. Combined with strong crowd control shapeshifters like Neeko, Gnar, and especially Shyvana, Swain will have plenty of time to deal damage. Additionally, being chosen as the Dragon Warrior leader allows Swain to help you take down opponents quite easily.
At the start of the match, you can play as a Sett-centered composition by activating two key effects: Dragon’s Fury and Dragon Warrior. Therefore, champions like Shen, Senna, or Karma are extremely important and should be purchased as soon as possible. During this phase, you can assemble magic items for Karma to hold for Swain.
In the mid-game, players will gradually transition to a Swain-centered playstyle as soon as they obtain this champion at level 1 star. You can add Gnar during this phase to activate additional shapeshifter traits, increasing health and durability for crucial champions. Furthermore, Gnar also activates the 3 Dragon Pearl threshold, granting Swain increased attack speed and impressive health regeneration.
One note is that you should stay at level 7 for a long time to gradually find a 3-star Swain. However, you should only use this method if you manage to purchase 4-5 1-star versions of Swain during the leveling process. This way, you will save quite a bit of gold and can buy expensive pieces like Neeko and Shyvana later on.
Regarding the tech core, “Going Wild” is a great upgrade that enables Swain to deal significant damage right after transforming. Another core you should consider choosing is “Heating Up” as it allows Swain to deal more damage while waiting to reach 3 stars. Additionally, cores that provide gold and items are always a suitable upgrade for the Swain composition.
As for item builds, Guinsoo’s Rageblade and Quicksilver are the best items for Swain. For the third item slot, you should use an item that increases skill damage such as Sorcerer’s Hat, Guardian Angel, or Rod of Ages.