The support role in League of Legends is a game-changer. It can make or break a team’s chances of winning. But what makes a great support player? João “Dionrray” Barbosa, a seasoned pro with a CBLOL championship under his belt with paiN Gaming, has shared some valuable insights.
Dionrray breaks down supports into three main categories: Melee, Peel, and Poke. Melee supports like Alistar and Nautilus are all about getting up close and personal. Peel supports like Nami and Soraka focus on protecting and healing their allies. Poke supports like Lux and Xerath deal damage from a distance.
Mastering the Support Role
To excel as a support, you need to understand your role and play to your strengths. Here are some key takeaways:
- Use your wards and vision-granting tools with a purpose. Ask yourself what you’re trying to achieve.
- Gain an advantage in the laning phase by punishing enemy mistakes and controlling key areas like the central brush.
- Don’t get too comfortable in lane – be prepared to rotate and help your team when needed.
- Keep an eye on the bigger picture and anticipate the next objective. Get vision around it before the fight.
- Know when to engage and when to hold back. Sometimes it’s better to wait for the right moment to strike.
- Be mindful of your positioning, especially when you’re low on resources or don’t have Flash. Avoid taking unnecessary risks.
Playing Smart, Not Just Playing Safe
It’s not just about playing it safe; it’s about making smart decisions that benefit your team. For instance, as Dionrray points out, having vision control around the next objective can make all the difference. This means thinking ahead and being proactive.
The key is to be flexible and adapt to the situation. Whether you’re a Melee, Peel, or Poke support, your goal is to make a positive impact on the game. By following these tips and staying focused, you can elevate your support game and help your team succeed.