Version 12.12 is arguably a significant update for Teamfight Tactics as it has reshaped the gameplay of “luck-based chess” following a chaotic launch phase. With a series of 1-cost and 3-cost carries being nerfed, the gameplay around them is no longer an effective ranking strategy. Instead, players have gradually shifted towards utilizing 4-cost carries (both offensive and defensive) as the optimal choice.
Among the strong strategies in this phase, Xayah – Protector is considered extremely powerful as it is an upgraded version of previous Xayah-centric compositions. Essentially, your backline still consists of Xayah, and the ranged champions supporting this piece will be Hecarim and Shen. However, in the frontline, players will use Idas and any Protector champion to increase the team’s durability.
To effectively build this composition, you should start with the familiar playstyle of Ranged – Brawler at the beginning. Ezreal and Twitch are champions you need to acquire at this stage as they are both inexpensive and of high quality. In the frontline, the duo of Shen – Skarner is a good choice; alternatively, you can also use Leona – Taric if you can’t find Shen or simply if you can upgrade them to 2 stars early on.
Moving into the mid-game phase, your task is still to maintain health and level up steadily after reaching the 50 gold mark. Additionally, you can supplement your lineup with strong champions in the mid-game like Braum or Sejuani to trigger additional Guild effect thresholds. Of course, it will be much easier to build your composition if you find Idas or Xayah early on.
By the late game phase, your task now is to quickly level up to level 8 and roll for key 4-cost champions like Xayah, Idas, Hecarim, and Ornn. They will ensure both durability and damage output to help you secure victory. Additionally, you should pay attention to positioning and arrange tank champions like Shen and Braum wisely to protect your carry from the enemy Assassin team.
As for the tech cores, the 2 cores you should acquire as soon as possible are Flamefoot and Silver Arrow. They will significantly boost Xayah’s damage output in the late game. Additionally, the cores offering valuable items from Ornn or recovery abilities like Firebolt are also very suitable for this composition.
In terms of item building, Xayah will utilize Guinsoo’s Rageblade, Giant Slayer combined with any defensive item. If opponents are using many Assassins, the Cloak of Shadows is a good choice; otherwise, the Shroud of Stillness is always a great option for this champion. One small note is that you should assemble Statikk’s Shiv as early as possible for Ezreal to carry the team and maintain health in the early game.
