For many gamers, Gragas is merely a tank unit in the early game that can be easily replaced as the match progresses. However, after heavy nerfs to units like Irelia and Hecarim, Teamfight Tactics masters are gradually discovering that Gragas has an incredibly strong tanking ability for a low cost. Specifically, at 3 stars, Gragas’ ability allows this unit to reduce incoming damage by up to 60% for 4 seconds.
One advantage of Gragas is that you can fit this unit into various team compositions while maximizing its potential. Players can run 4 Brawlers, Divine team compositions, or even Assassins, and 3-star Gragas can tank exceptionally well while dealing significant damage. Moreover, being a tank by nature, the “core items” for Gragas are not difficult to assemble at all.
The ideal start with this composition is to purchase Gragas and Kha’Zix early. Activating the 2 Divine trait will help Gragas and Kha’Zix hold their ground in skirmishes early on and deal substantial damage. Even if you fall behind in levels, this opening strategy ensures players don’t lose too much health.
By focusing on rolling for 3-star Gragas, you won’t buy experience until you reach level 5. Typically, after the Stone Golem round, players will spend all their saved gold to roll for 3-star Gragas. Additionally, you should also consider purchasing other Divine units like Soraka, Riven, or Brawlers like Nunu & Willump and Sett to bolster Gragas’ strength.
In the mid-game, you need to consider which team composition to pivot Gragas into based on the units you purchase. If you get a 2-star Riven early, you can aim for a 4 Divine – 4 Legion team to maximize this champion’s damage output. If you acquire many Assassin units, you should let Gragas be the sole tank and draw attention from the opposing team.
As you approach the late game, what players need to do is finalize their team composition and add high-quality 5-cost champions to supplement damage and tankiness. Champions like Gwen, Heimerdinger, and Volibear are among the best you can acquire. If players build a 6 Divine team, Garen is an essential choice.
Regarding itemization, the best item to build for Gragas is the Redemption. With the ability to hold up in skirmishes for an extended period, Gragas can activate Redemption’s effect multiple times, making your team much more resilient. Following that, Warmog’s Armor, Thornmail, or Dragonclaw are strong choices for Gragas. Additionally, the Lightning Cannon is a powerful option for Gragas in rounds 3-6 that players should consider.
