Zoe’s Shine
In previous versions of TFT, Zoe did not have much room to shine as the 4-cost carry units proved to be too strong. At that time, the strategy of “fast 8” and using 2-star 4-cost carries was considered a safe and effective playstyle. Meanwhile, after the nerf to the appearance rate of 3-cost champions at level 7, rerolling for Zoe became too risky.
However, everything changed in patch 14.12 when the appearance rate of 3-cost champions at level 7 was reverted back to 40%. This allows players to more comfortably upgrade Zoe to 3 stars and make her the main carry. It’s important to note that Zoe’s ability requires her to get kills to increase her bounce damage. Therefore, this unit needs to be leveled up to the highest tier to ensure output damage and take down opponents.
Furthermore, the adjustment in appearance rates also makes it easier for frontline champions like Diana and Tahm Kench to be upgraded. Ultimately, Zoe is a champion that requires time to gradually whittle down the opponents’ health before finishing off with her ability. Having a more solid and powerful frontline will help Zoe deal damage much more effectively.
Building the Zoe – Sage Composition
An ideal start for players would be a framework of 3 Mystic units to ensure health preservation. Additionally, powerful spell-casting carries at the beginning such as Ahri, Teemo, or Kindred can be utilized. These units are excellent at holding items for Zoe.
After reaching level 7, players need to stop purchasing experience and adopt a slow roll strategy to search for and upgrade Zoe. Additionally, Tahm Kench and Diana should also be units to purchase during this phase to ensure tankiness. Furthermore, players might consider bringing Soraka into the game to increase damage output.
Once Zoe and Diana or Tahm Kench are upgraded to 3 stars, players can consider leveling up to 8 to finalize their composition. At that point, Nautilus is a common addition that provides good tankiness, crowd control, and activates the 3 Divine threshold. Additionally, if players have enough gold to reach level 9, troublesome 5-cost champions like Hwei and Rakan are excellent additions.
Items and Technology Core
For Zoe, the item build including Spear of Shojin, Nashor’s Tooth, and Archangel’s Staff will help her deal damage effectively. Players can replace Archangel’s Staff with a Sorcerer’s Hat if they have the Gemstone Core. Additionally, upgrades that provide many items such as Buried Treasure, Ultimate Forge… are also suitable for this composition.