As we know, in Teamfight Tactics season 5.5, Riot Games introduced us to a new system called Radiant Items. Simply put, these are more powerful versions of regular items, and players are always allowed to choose one Radiant Item during round 3-6 of each match. So how can we always accurately choose a Radiant Item? Let’s explore the tips below from Challenger players.
Similar to regular items, Radiant Items are also divided into 3 groups: damage items, utility items, and tank items. Typically, before round 3-6, players can combine 2-3 large items. The key here is to choose a Radiant Item that helps balance your item pool among the different groups. Specifically:
If you already have 2-3 damage items, you should take a Radiant Item from the tank group.
If you already have 2-3 tank items, you should take a Radiant Item from the damage or utility group depending on the champions you have and the current match situation.
If you already have 2-3 utility items, you should take a Radiant Item from the damage group.
The first example is about the Vayne – Cannoneer composition from the top 9 Challenger player in North America – Noobowl. This player managed to obtain 2 damage items: Infinity Edge and Rabadon’s Deathcap on Miss Fortune. Therefore, he chose Warmog’s Armor to help his 1-star Hecarim tank better at the front line instead of the Thornmail.
In the next case of the top 10 Challenger player in the Western server – AL3XEM, we will better understand how to choose items for the damage dealer. In one match, this player had a relatively strong Warrior – Guardian composition with Olaf, Rakan, and Poppy as the main tanks. This player also combined a Thornmail for Rakan’s tank item while Rabadon’s Deathcap was held by Ivern, and Olaf had Infinity Edge.
Before round 3-6, AL3XEM did not have a clear direction on which damage dealer he would play and only combined the items that were considered the best possible. With Rakan, Olaf 2-star, and Irelia in hand, aiming for a 6 Guardian composition with Lucian as the damage dealer was the right choice. Therefore, this player selected Death’s Dance in round 3-6 to ensure that his Lucian would have enough damage later on.
Additionally, players should carefully observe their opponents to make reasonable Radiant Item choices. If the enemy is not using strong magic damage compositions, you should skip Dragon’s Claw even though this item is a very strong tank option. Alternatively, choosing Solar Cape will be an excellent snowball option if you have a front line that has been upgraded and other players are merging many healing items.
Hopefully, with the above tips, players will be able to choose Radiant Items more effectively to climb the ranks better.