After the release of patch 12.13 for Teamfight Tactics, we can see that lineups revolving around the Dragon tribe are becoming extremely popular. Variants using Nidalee, Varus, or even Nami as the main carry are frequently appearing in matches.
This popularity has unintentionally led to a resurgence of some lineups using 1-cost 3-star carries, as the Dragon tribe effect makes it easier for players to upgrade these champions.
Among them, we have Karma in the Dragon Gem – Dragon Warrior lineup, with an incredibly strong magical damage output. Not stopping there, Ezreal remains a very powerful carry and these two 1-cost 3-star champions will help you secure a winning streak quite easily in the mid-game.
To start with the Dragon Gem – Dragon Warrior lineup, affordable yet quality champions like Karma, Taric, and Ashe are essential. If you can get Sett at level 4, the lineup will become extremely sturdy with the Dragon Warrior effect on Karma. Additionally, you can choose to start with 2 Guardian (Leona, Taric) along with a backline that includes Ezreal and Karma.
Like all other lineups using 1-cost 3-star champions, you will not buy experience at the start to maintain the highest appearance rate of 1-cost champions. Of course, you will have to endure a losing streak during this phase, but be patient, save gold, and then “spend big” after the Stone Golem round to roll for carries like Karma, Leona (Ezreal if possible) at 3 stars.
By the mid-game, you need to add Lee Sin to the lineup when it activates 3 Dragon Warriors and 2 Lightning Dragons, providing a lot of damage and a bit of crowd control. With a 3-star damage carry and tank, you can confidently hold gold from your winning streak and level up to 8 quickly. At this stage, Shi Oh Yu with its strong stats, high damage, and decent crowd control is the best upgrade.
As for the technology core, Blue Energy is the optimal upgrade for this lineup because both Ezreal and Karma need energy. Additionally, Gemstone Inlay is also a powerful upgrade for the Dragon Gem – Dragon Warrior lineup as it allows the carries to deal strong damage without needing to assemble the Gemstone Glove.
In terms of item builds, Karma needs Blue Buff and items that enhance skill damage. Ezreal is similar, so if you start with many Tear of the Goddess, consider using this lineup. Furthermore, common tank items like Warmog’s Armor, Blood Armor, and Stone Armor should be equipped for Leona.