In the current meta, jungle champions that can deal significant damage have almost completely vanished, with only a few exceptions like Kindred in the hands of Pyosik or Viego. However, this number is still too small. The reason lies in Riot’s adjustments, and the meta is no longer suitable for fragile but high-damage junglers.
Current top picks must meet criteria such as sturdiness, quick jungle clear, ability to contest objectives, and crowd control. Notable names include Rell, Xin Zhao, Lee Sin, Vi, Poppy… Especially with the introduction of the Void Abyss, Rell has become a favorite as this champion can clear the Void Abyss very quickly. With this buff, a team can gain excellent turret-pushing ability.
However, a key characteristic is that the aforementioned champions lose their damage potential as the game progresses, focusing instead on crowd control, shielding, and initiating fights. Recently, an unbelievable event occurred during a match at LPL Spring 2024. Specifically, Tian – the 2019 Worlds champion with FunPlus Phoenix achieved a pentakill with Rell. This left the global LoL audience in shock.
Notably, this occurred at the 29th minute, meaning all champions had at least one complete item. Meanwhile, this is also the phase where Rell’s damage is no longer significant. The opposing team FPX (Tian’s former team) had K’Sante and Maokai, who are two extremely sturdy champions, along with Twisted Fate, Viego, and Karma, who can provide crowd control and healing. Of course, achieving a pentakill with his former team adds significance to this moment.
Witnessing this unbelievable pentakill, many viewers were astonished. In fact, many opinions suggest that this might be an achievement that no one can replicate. Because for Rell to deal damage, she must build ability power. However, this also means that this champion loses her primary function and could affect the team’s gameplay.
It can be said that Tian has created an unprecedented achievement, albeit somewhat incomplete as TES lost the match. However, it is likely to be a long time, or perhaps never, before this record is broken, regardless of whether Riot buffs or nerfs Rell in the future.