Teamfight Tactics (TFT) is an auto-battler game mode in the universe of League of Legends. Since its inception, it has grown immensely in popularity due to its intricate strategies and dynamic gameplay. Whether you’re new to the auto-battler scene or looking to sharpen your TFT skills, this guide aims to help you navigate your first game and increase your chances of claiming victory.
Understanding the Basics
Before delving into the round-by-round breakdown, it’s crucial to understand the game’s mechanics.
1. Champions and Origins/Classes: You buy champions from a shared pool, and these champions have specific Origins and Classes. Combining champions with the same Origin or Class can give bonus effects, which can be pivotal in battles.
2. Economy: Gold is used to buy champions, level up (to place more champions on the board) and reroll your shop. Managing your gold economy is a crucial aspect of TFT.
3. Health: You start with 100 HP. The goal is to be the last player standing. When you lose battles, you lose HP based on how many surviving units the opponent has and their star levels.
Round-by-Round Walkthrough
At the start, the opening carousel has been replaced with Regional Portals. This is a new system introduced recently in Set 9 which allows players to vote for a rule which will be added to the current game.
1. Round 1 (PvE): The game starts with three PvE (player versus environment) rounds where you’ll fight against AI minions. Use these rounds to grab basic champions and items. Try to pick champions from the same Origin or Class to aim for early synergy bonuses.
2. Rounds 2-3 (PvP): After the PvE rounds, you’ll face off against other players. Use these rounds to identify which synergies you’re leaning toward and which ones your opponents are pursuing. It’s essential not to tunnel on one strategy but to stay flexible based on what the game offers you.
3. Carousel Rounds: Every few rounds, there’s a carousel where players pick champions with pre-attached items. Players with the lowest health choose first. Aim for items complementing your chosen strategy or champions fitting into your synergies.
4. Mid-game (Rounds 4-6): By now, you should have a clear direction for your team comp. Start scouting opponents and see if you can pivot to a synergy that is less contested. This ensures you’ll have a higher chance of upgrading your champions. Remember to keep a balance between spending and saving gold, and always aim to hit interest points (every 10 gold up to 50).
5. Late game (Rounds 7 and beyond): It’s time to go all-in. Spend your gold, roll for key champions, and finalize your strategy. Make use of items, positioning, and adapt based on remaining opponents.
That’s a brief rundown of how your game of Teamfight Tactics would look like when you first load your first match. It might seem intimidating at first with the constant strategizing and planning required each round but with some practice and dedication, you’ll grasp the ropes of it in no time. However, if you still feel a little less confident and think you need an extra set of helping hands then you can opt for personal TFT coaching by challenger players who will help you improve your progress tenfold in half the time.
Tips to Maximize Your Chances of Winning
1. Stay Flexible
One of the most captivating aspects of Teamfight Tactics is its dynamic nature. Each game can vary vastly due to the shared champion pool and the RNG element in which champions are offered to you. A player may start a game with the intention of building a certain synergy, only to find the key champions missing from the shop. Instead of stubbornly clinging to an initial plan, high-level TFT players adjust their strategy based on the champions and items they receive. Being fluid in your approach allows you to make the best of every situation and increases your chances of placing higher in each game.
2. Economic Management
The gold management system in TFT is multifaceted and mastering it can provide a significant edge. The game rewards saving gold by providing extra gold called ‘interest’ for every 10 gold you have saved up, capped at 50 gold. This system encourages players to be judicious in their spending. Early rerolls or unnecessary levelling can hamper your economy and leave you trailing in the mid to late game. Learning when to save and when to spend—often called “eco” and “rolling down”—is a balancing act that differentiates the novices from the experts.
3. Scout Opponents
TFT isn’t just a game played on your board; it’s a holistic experience where knowledge about your opponents’ boards is paramount. Regularly glancing at other players’ boards gives you a wealth of information. Are many players going for the same strategy? Are certain champions being highly contested? By identifying these patterns, you can decide if you want to contest a popular build or pivot to a less contested, but equally potent, strategy. This proactive approach means you’re less likely to hit roadblocks when searching for champion upgrades later in the game.
4. Positioning
As you transition into the mid and late game, battles are often decided by the minutiae of champion placement. Proper positioning ensures that your frontline champions soak up damage, your damage dealers are protected, and your abilities hit their mark. But it’s not just about defensive positioning. Recognizing threats on your opponents’ boards, such as Zephyrs (which can lift and disable your champions) or assassins (who jump to the backline) and adjusting your champions accordingly can be the difference between a win and a loss.
5. Utilize Items Wisely
In TFT, items can significantly amplify a champion’s prowess. However, there’s a common pitfall of hastily combining items because they’re available. The art lies in patiently waiting for the right combinations. For instance, a ‘Guardian Angel’ item might be better suited for a pivotal champion you’re planning to add later rather than your current champion. Being discerning in your item combinations ensures that your team reaches its maximum potential, turning potential losses into triumphant victories.
The Competitive Scope of TFT
With its strategic depth, TFT has carved a niche in esports. Major tournaments with hefty prize pools have been organized around the world, giving players the incentive to continuously improve. The game’s competitive scene is not just about mastering one strategy but understanding the meta, being versatile, and out-thinking opponents round after round.
Conclusion
Teamfight Tactics is an ever-evolving game that offers a rich blend of strategy, adaptability, and RNG. While the game may seem daunting at first, understanding its intricacies can lead to a highly rewarding experience. Whether aiming to be the next TFT champion or just looking for a fun pastime, remember to stay adaptable, manage your economy, and always be one step ahead of your opponents. Happy gaming!
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