Bard Support: Counter Picks and Matchups
Bard Counter Guide: In-Depth Strategy
Bard's main counters include Poppy, Maokai, Vel'Koz, Pyke, and Senna. These champions can effectively neutralize Bard's mobility and utility.
Laning Phase Strategy:
- Capitalize when Bard leaves lane to collect Chimes by pressuring the enemy ADC
- Maintain distance from minion waves to avoid Q stuns
- Avoid walls where Bard can easily land his Q stun
- For melee champions: Only approach wave for last hits, then retreat to safety
Mid-Game Tactics:
- Spread out during teamfights to avoid multi-champion ultimate catches
- Take alternative paths near objectives to avoid wall stuns
- Never overstay under turrets when low - Bard can disable the tower with ultimate
Power Spike Windows:
- Early Game: Watch for empowered auto-attacks harassment
- Level 6: Less threatening than damage-dealing ultimates
- Late Game: Increases in strength with Chime collection
Top Counters:
- Poppy: Durability and disengage
- Maokai: Tank sustain and reliable CC
- Vel'Koz: Long-range poke and zone control
- Pyke: High mobility and execution potential
- Senna: Outranges and outscales
Other Strong Picks:
- Lulu (Shielding and polymorph)
- Zilean (Ultimate counter)
- Swain (Sustain and CC)
- Thresh (Engage and disengage)
- Elise (Early pressure)
Key Counter Tips:
- Punish his roaming
- Avoid wall-hugging
- Maintain proper spacing
- Counter his ultimate with aggressive plays
Related Champions:
- Hard matchups: Varies by playstyle
- Average matchups: Dependent on team composition
- Counter picks: Focus on mobility and CC
Remember to adapt your strategy based on team composition and game phase, as Bard's effectiveness scales with experience and Chime collection.