Maokai Jungle Guide: Master the Nature's Tank with Perfect Ganks
Maokai Jungle Strategy
Maokai excels at ganking with his point-and-click W root ability, making him a reliable initiator. His ultimate provides excellent team fight setup, especially when used from fog of war or near walls.
Strengths:
- Strong vision control with E (Sapling Toss)
- Reliable CC chain with W and Q
- Excellent team fight initiation
- Good brush control and zoning
- Natural tankiness from passive
Weaknesses:
- Weak 1v1 potential
- Vulnerable to early invades
- Requires team follow-up
- Can be shut down by proper ward coverage
Maokai blue jungle clearing path
Early Game (1-5):
- Start ganking at level 3
- Place saplings in jungle brushes for vision
- Focus on securing objectives with your strong CC
Mid Game:
- Use ultimate for pick potential
- Work with support for vision control
- Prioritize peeling for carries
- Fight near choke points for maximum CC impact
Late Game:
- Focus on team fight initiation
- Use ultimate on short cooldown
- Protect backline while engaging
- Utilize fog of war for surprise engages
Key Power Spikes:
- Level 3: Basic CC combo available
- Level 6: Ultimate unlocks strong engage potential
- Level 9: E maxed for increased damage
- Level 16: Maximum ultimate impact
Tips:
- Always check team positioning before engaging
- Use brushes for enhanced sapling damage
- Chain CC abilities for maximum lockdown
- Coordinate ultimates with team follow-up
- Prioritize tanky items for survivability
Combat Strategy:
- Lead with E for slow
- Follow up with W root
- Use Q to disrupt positioning
- Save ultimate for key objectives or team fights
- Position saplings strategically in brushes
This versatile tank jungler excels in team-oriented gameplay, providing reliable engage and peel while building tanky to survive extended fights.
