Karthus is a powerful AP mage known for his global presence and sustained damage output. His unique passive allows him to continue casting spells after death, making him a constant threat in teamfights.

Core Abilities Overview:

Q - Lay Waste

• Primary damage ability
• Deals double damage to isolated targets
• 0.5-second delay before explosion
• Essential for farming and trading

W - Wall of Pain

• Creates a wall granting vision
• Slows enemies crossing it
• Reduces enemy magic resistance by 15%
• Duration: 5 seconds

E - Defile

• Passive: Restores mana on unit kills
• Active: Deals continuous magic damage
• Toggle ability
• Important for wave control

R - Requiem

• Global ultimate ability
• Deals magic damage to all enemy champions
• Crucial for securing kills and team fights

Optimal Skill Order:

1. Max Q first (Lay Waste)
2. Max E second (Defile)
3. Max W last (Wall of Pain)
4. Take R at levels 6, 11, and 16

Early Game Strategy:

• Focus on farming with Q
• Conserve mana until Lost Chapter
• Look for isolated Q hits on enemies
• Coordinate with CC-heavy supports for all-ins

Build Path: Starting Items:

• Doran's Ring
• Health Potions

Core Items:

• Lost Chapter → Liandry's Anguish
• Sorcerer's Shoes
• Shadowflame
• Void Staff

Situational Items:

• Zhonya's Hourglass (vs AD threats)
• Demonic Embrace (vs HP-heavy teams)
• Rabadon's Deathcap (when ahead)

Team Role:

• Primary AP damage source
• Excels in teams with heavy AD composition
• Strong objective control
• Global map pressure with ultimate

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