Xin Zhao is a strong early-game jungler who excels at aggressive ganking and invading enemy territory. Here's the optimal way to play him:

Core Build

• Summoner Spells: Flash, Smite
• Primary Items: Eclipse → Plated Steelcaps → Sundered Sky
• Final Items: Sterak's Gage, Death's Dance, Guardian Angel
• Skill Order: W > E > Q

Most Effective Runes

• Primary: Conqueror, Triumph, Legend: Alacrity, Coup de Grace
• Secondary: Cosmic Insight, Magical Footwear
• Shards: Attack Speed, Adaptive Force, Health Scaling

Best Matchups (Win Rate)

• Shyvana (56.3%)
• Ambessa (54.7%)
• Lillia (54.0%)
• Zyra (53.9%)
• Diana (53.9%)

Counter Picks to Avoid

• Gwen (45.4%)
• Evelynn (47.6%)
• Warwick (47.9%)
• Volibear (47.9%)
• Master Yi (48.1%)

Key Tips

• Capitalize on early game strength through aggressive invades
• Only engage in team fights when your Ultimate is available
• Focus on repeated ganks to snowball lanes
• Use your early mobility to secure objectives and control vision

Alternative Build

• Keystone: Hail of Blades
• Core Items: Same as standard build
• Win Rate: 54.0% across 3,323 matches

This build maintains a 52.9% win rate over 27,396 matches in Emerald+ rankings, proving its effectiveness in high-level play.

For optimal synergy, pair with these champions:

• Cassiopeia (56.7% WR)
• Taliyah (56.3% WR)
• Swain (55.0% WR)

Adjust your build path and runes based on enemy team composition and game state for maximum effectiveness.

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