Is Pantheon Getting a Buff?
In recent years, Pantheon, one of the most iconic marksmen in League of Legends, has been lacking in terms of power. His abilities and overall kits have been criticized for not being as effective as before. However, with patch 13.21 comes a significant update that sparks hope for Pantheon supporters. In this article, we’ll delve into what’s changed and whether Pantheon is indeed receiving a buff.
Early Game Strength
Since patch 13.20, Pantheon’s early game strength has increased significantly (bolded for importance). His burst damage during the early phase of the game is not only phenomenal but also sustainable. This change has earned him a reputation as one of the top-tier starting champions in the top tier. With a Pick rate of 2.2%, Pantheon is a popular choice, especially in high-level tournament play.
Cooldown Reduction
One of the core changes in patch 13.21 is the reduced cooldown on Pantheon’s Q ability (Riven’s fury). This change dramatically increases his ability to quickly reapply damage and lockdown enemies. Cooldown now stands at 10s, down from 17s, allowing Pantheon to execute combos significantly faster.
How Does This Affect Combat?
In combat situations, Pantheon’s power spike has become more considerable. His ability to snowball fights has increased tremendously, making him a game-changer in team skirmishes. With the quick cooldown on Q, pantheon can chain in abilities faster, allowing his opponents to have trouble keeping up.
| Ability | Cooldown (Patch 12.20) | Cooldown (Patch 13.21) |
|---|---|---|
| Q (Riven’s Fury) | 17s | 10s |
Lane Bully
Early game, Pantheon proves to be an excellent Lane Bully, easily dominating opponents that are not well-equipped or experienced. You must give up CS (monster kills) if you struggle against him. Keep in mind that this article focuses on top lane with Pantheon.
When Combining Abilities
Executing combos with Pantheon results in devastating damage. Here is a step-by-step guideline on how to combine Q, W, and Basic Attacks:
- Launch Riven’s fury (Q) at your targeted enemy.
- Fire W (The Scythe of Vykan) onto the enemy,
- Immediately follow it up with Basic Attacking to deal considerable damage.
- Quickly reapply damage with your Q ability due to the reduced cooldown!
What Does This All Mean?
Pantheon in patch 13.20 has become an even greater force to be reckoned with. His versatility and ability to snowball fights make him formidable in the top lane and in team fights. The cooldown reduction also increases his accessibility for new players without sacrificing his potential for improvement.
Will Pantheon Continue to Rise?
With this update, experts predict that Pantheon may become an even staple pick in professional ranks. His strength in an early game and potential for consistent damage will only continue to rise as players find ways to maximize his synergies.
Other Items and Masteries of Note
Some notable options for Pantheon include [Youmuu’s Ghostblade] and [Black Cleaver]. Additionally, try experimenting with masteries which enhance his abilities, speed, and survivability.
Conclusion
In brief, Pantheon has entered a new era of reign with patch 13.21. His growth in early game strength makes him a more formidable option for those looking for a powerful marksmen. With this update in mind, Pantheon champions will likely experience a continued rise in power.