Maokai is a resilient supertank with powerful crowd control abilities, making him an excellent frontline and peeling champion. His kit revolves around strategic engagements and team fight control.

Strengths:

• Strong CC abilities through his W and Q
• Excellent vision control with E
• Powerful engage potential with Ultimate (R)
• Great sustain through passive healing
• Effective team fight presence

Weaknesses:

• Vulnerable early game
• Susceptible to ranged champions
• Countered by Grievous Wounds
• Relies heavily on Ultimate for engages
• Limited effectiveness without proper vision control

Early Game Tips:

• Play defensively until level 3
• Keep minion wave close to your tower
• Use bushes strategically with E
• Avoid unnecessary trades without jungle support
• Focus on farming and sustaining

Mid Game Strategy:

• Split push when Ultimate is on cooldown
• Group with team when Ultimate is available
• Look for picks using R from fog of war
• Prioritize objective control
• Utilize brush control for ambushes

Late Game Approach:

• Focus on peeling for carries
• Engage only with Ultimate available
• Target isolated enemies
• Build full tank items
• Maximize CDR for more frequent Ultimate usage

Fighting Tips:

• Start extended trades with W+Q combo
• Use E for brush control and zoning
• Save Ultimate for teamfights or crucial picks
• Position to protect carries
• Chain CC abilities for maximum impact

Build Progression:

• Start with tank items for survivability
• Prioritize CDR items
• Build Grievous Wounds counter if needed
• Focus on HP and resistance items
• Include utility items for team support

Team Fight Role:

• Initiate with Ultimate when possible
• Disrupt enemy backline
• Peel for carries when needed
• Control enemy movement with Q and E
• Sustain through passive healing

Remember to adapt your playstyle based on team composition and match-ups. Maokai excels in organized team play but requires good coordination for maximum effectiveness.

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