The Rise of the Neeko – Flower Fall Playstyle
In patch 14.10 of TFT, ranged compositions proved to be overwhelmingly superior with their high damage output from a safe distance. Coupled with the significant buffs to the Guardian system from Riot Games, this type of composition became incredibly versatile. Therefore, despite Neeko receiving substantial buffs in this patch, she struggled to make her way into the TFT meta.
However, with the release of patch 14.11, Neeko experienced a rapid breakthrough, achieving a top 4 placement rate of up to 61.9% (according to statistics from Metatft.com). This is due to the relative nerfs to Neeko’s “counter” compositions in this patch. Notably, the Zyra – Scholar composition was weakened significantly as the Strong Double buff’s health bonus was reduced, making it much weaker.
Furthermore, the buffs to Neeko herself and the Divine race from previous patches have significantly improved her ability to deal damage. Combined with the Flower Fall core that greatly enhances healing and damage range, Neeko can take down enemy compositions relatively easily.
Building the Neeko – Flower Fall Composition
One of the signs that players should use this composition is acquiring Neeko early in the game. At that point, players can deploy a starting composition with 2 Titans (Cho’Gath, Malphite) and 3 Divine (adding Neeko and Kog’Maw). This setup allows players to have a very strong damage capability early in the game.
Moving into the mid-game, players should focus on leveling up to 6 as quickly as possible to maximize their chances of acquiring Neeko. If able to buy Tahm Kench and Bard (or luckier, Nautilus, Lillia), players should deploy them immediately to activate the powerful 5 Divine threshold. Additionally, Illaoi is a worthwhile purchase at this stage due to her natural tankiness.
After upgrading Neeko to 3 stars, players should quickly level up to 8 to aim for the 7 Divine threshold. Hwei is, of course, the priority champion to purchase at this stage, as she has good damage potential, helping players upgrade their composition. If players are able to reach level 9, Wukong would be a fantastic addition to this composition.
Equipment and Technology Cores
As for equipment, Neeko will need Bloodthirster and Archangel’s Staff to ensure her survivability and damage output. For the third item, players should consider building Giant Slayer or Guardian Angel. A small tip when playing this composition is to place all available Neeko units on the board before changing cores (around 2-1 or 3-2). This will increase the chances of obtaining the Flower Fall core to secure victories. Additionally, cores providing Divine Emblems or Champion Copy Machines should also be prioritized when playing this composition.