
Complete Gnar Top Lane Guide: Strategy, Builds and Counters
Gnar is a versatile top laner who excels at harassing melee champions and controlling teamfights. His unique transformation mechanic between Mini and Mega forms makes him both a potent lane bully and a formidable team fighter.
Strengths:
- Strong lane bully with ranged poke abilities
- Excellent disengage potential with E
- Game-changing ultimate for team fights
- Versatile build paths (damage or tank)
- Effective split pusher
Weaknesses:
- Vulnerable when E is on cooldown
- Ultimate effectiveness depends on terrain
- Can be countered by disengaging during Mega form
- Form management requires careful timing
Key Tips:
- Harass enemies with Q when they last hit
- Monitor your rage bar constantly
- Look for aggressive plays near form transformation
- Delay team fights until rage bar is nearly full
- Use brushes for lane control
- Group with team for mid-game objectives
Power Spikes:
- Level 6: Major spike with ultimate unlock
- Level 9: Q maxed for increased poke
- Level 11: Second point in ultimate
- Level 13: Two abilities fully maxed
Game Phases:
-
Early Game:
- Focus on poking and farming
- Use E defensively
- Control wave with Q
-
Mid Game:
- Group for team fights
- Look for ultimate opportunities
- Split push when no objectives are available
-
Late Game:
- Stay with team
- Use fog of war for flanks
- Focus on proper ultimate timing
Strategic Tips:
- Consider team composition when choosing build path
- Use range advantage in mini form
- Time transformations for objective fights
- Coordinate ultimate with team's CC
- Keep track of enemy disengage abilities
Remember to adapt your playstyle based on matchup and team composition, as Gnar's success heavily depends on proper form management and ultimate timing.