Akshan Top Lane Guide: Mastering the Sentinel's Playstyle in Patch 14.16.1

Akshan Top Lane Guide: Mastering the Sentinel's Playstyle in Patch 14.16.1

By Marcus Chen

November 19, 2024 at 06:45 PM

Akshan is a versatile marksman-assassin who excels in both top and mid lanes. His unique ability to perform quick attacks and escapes makes him a formidable champion, especially during the early game.

Key Strengths:

  • Strong early game presence
  • High mobility and escape potential
  • Permanent invisibility with W ability
  • Double auto-attack passive mechanic
  • Excellent for One Trick Pony players

Ability Priority:

  1. Q (First max)
  2. E (Second max)
  3. W (Last max)

Early Game Optimization: Skip W until first base return for maximum early damage potential:

  • Level 1: Q
  • Level 2: E
  • Level 3: Second Q point
  • Level 4: Second E point (if W isn't needed)
  • Level 5+: Standard Q > E > W priority

Core Item Build: Starting Items:

  • Doran's Blade
  • Health Potion

Essential Items:

  1. Kraken Slayer
  2. Blade of the Ruined King
  3. Defensive Boots (based on matchup)

Situational Items:

  • Lord Dominik's Regards (vs tanks)
  • Guardian Angel (defensive option)
  • Death's Dance (vs physical damage)
  • Wit's End (vs magic damage)

Build Strategy: Focus on Attack Speed and On-Hit items to maximize passive double auto-attack potential. Prioritize:

  • Attack speed items
  • On-hit effects
  • Defensive boots for survivability
  • Armor penetration for tank-heavy teams

Runes: Primary (Precision):

  • Press the Attack
  • Presence of Mind
  • Legend: Alacrity
  • Coup de Grace

Secondary (Inspiration):

  • Magical Footwear
  • Biscuit Delivery

Playstyle Tips:

  • Utilize mobility for quick trades
  • Leverage invisibility for surprise attacks
  • Focus on short trades using double-hit passive
  • Position carefully in teamfights
  • Use terrain for optimal grappling hook angles

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