Smolder guide: skill order, tips, best runes, items, counterpicks. How to play Smolder, new League of Legends ADC dragon

League of Legends introduces its 167th champion in early 2024: Smolder, the baby dragon marksman designed specifically for the ADC role. This unique champion brings unprecedented infinite scaling mechanics that continue enhancing his power even after reaching maximum level and full item builds. Understanding his stacking system is crucial for maximizing his late game dominance.

Smolder’s kit combines survival tools with explosive damage potential, making him adaptable to various combat scenarios. His defining characteristic revolves around Dragon Practice, the passive ability that enables continuous improvement throughout the match. Unlike traditional ADCs who peak at full build, Smolder maintains scaling momentum that can single-handedly decide late game teamfights.

Dragon Practice (passive)

The stacking mechanic functions through two primary methods: executing minions with Super Scorcher Breath (Q) or striking enemy champions with any ability. Each stack permanently enhances basic skill damage and progressively transforms Q functionality through three distinct evolutionary stages.

This passive transforms Smolder from a vulnerable early game champion into an unstoppable late game force. During laning phase, focus on hitting multiple opponents simultaneously with abilities or secure last hits on minions using Q when unfavorable trading conditions prevent direct engagement.

Super Scorcher Breath (Q)

Smolder launches a fireball projectile that evolves dramatically based on accumulated stacks. At 25 stacks, the ability gains area damage affecting all enemies near the primary target. Reaching 125 stacks generates additional projectiles striking two adjacent opponents, while 225 stacks further increases projectile count and applies burning effects. Visual champion changes accompany each evolutionary milestone.

As Smolder’s primary damage source, Q should receive max priority in skill allocation. Aggressive stack acquisition enables faster ability evolution, significantly increasing teamfight damage output potential. The cooldown reduction from leveling makes consistent stacking more achievable.

Achooo! (W)

This conical flame sneeze applies slow effects and damage to affected enemies. Champion impacts trigger secondary explosions, making it particularly effective against clustered opponents.

W provides versatile utility for teamfight support, target pursuit, or defensive kiting against aggressive champions. During laning, consistently target two opponents simultaneously to accelerate passive stack generation.

Flap, Flap, Flap (E)

Smolder briefly takes flight, gaining movement speed and terrain traversal capabilities. While airborne, he automatically attacks lowest health priority champions within range.

This mobility tool enables gap closing or emergency disengagement from dangerous situations. The ability’s wall-crossing potential covers nearly all map obstacles, though its extended cooldown demands strategic conservation.

MMOOOMMMM! (R)

Summoning maternal assistance unleashes massive flame waves damaging all enemies in the path. Central impact zones apply additional slow effects and increased damage, while the flames simultaneously heal Smolder within the affected area.

As Smolder’s ultimate ability, it provides both offensive execution and defensive sustain. Targeting multiple opponents generates substantial passive stacks while determining fight outcomes.

Smolder’s skillbuild order

Maximizing Q first provides the most significant power spike through cooldown reduction and damage amplification. Following Q completion, prioritize W for its reduced cooldown and increased utility. Ultimate abilities are taken at levels 6, 11, and 16 as available, with E receiving points last to complete the build.

Smolder Runes

Two primary rune configurations suit Smolder’s playstyle, focusing on damage amplification, mana sustainability, and survivability enhancement. Final minor rune selection should adapt to lane opponents, choosing between armor or magic resistance based on enemy composition threats.

Items for Smolder

Season 14’s item system offers unprecedented build flexibility, eliminating any single “best” configuration. Smolder’s mana dependency makes Manamune a consistent core component, while other artifacts can be customized to match playstyle preferences and counter specific threats.

Smolder Counterpicks

While Smolder demonstrates impressive versatility as an ADC, his early game vulnerability creates specific counter opportunities. Aggressive early game champions like Draven or Samira can capitalize on his weak laning phase. Tank supports with extensive crowd control effectively disrupt his stacking progress by limiting safe farming opportunities. Since Smolder excels in late game scenarios, other hyper carries such as Kog’Maw or Jinx present effective late game answers to his scaling dominance.

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