In the dynamic world of League of Legends, game-winning strategies continuously evolve, and the same applies to top lane champions like Nasus. As Season 9 unfolds, let's delve into the optimal rune setups for this iconic top laner, who's known for his powerful late-game potential.
Nasus, the Curator of the Sands, is a champion that excels in extended games due to his magnificent levels 6 and 11 powerspikes and his late-game team fighting prowess. By capitalizing on his strength, we'll explore how to maximize his damage output and durability through strategic rune choices.
Precision Style - Dominating the Top Lane
The Precision tree is Nasus' go-to choice when looking to secure top lane dominance. It provides immense single-target damage and attack speed, which is perfectly aligned with Nasus' kit.
However, as of Season 9, Runes Reforged has changed the Precision tree's synergies, making it essential to adapt. Now, let's explore the best runes to complement Nasus in this tree.
Press the Attack
Press the Attack is an excellent Keystone choice for Nasus, as it facilitates stunning single-target damage output. Once activated, it empowers Nasus' basic attacks, dealing increased damage and applying a slow effect. This is particularly potent with his spell, W - Death Blossom.
The synergy between Press the Attack and Death Blossom is undeniable. After activating Press the Attack, cast Death Blossom to spread slowed effects to all affected targets. As a result, Nasus can effortlessly secure kills and trait objectives, like Rift Herald or Baron Nashor, by extending combat duration.
Triumph and Presence of Mind
Triumph and Presence of Mind are two powerful runes complementing Press the Attack. Triumph ensures that Nasus gains stacking bonuses for every kill or assist, further boosting his damage and gold acquisition. Meanwhile, Presence of Mind offers the extra mana restore and adaptive power when needed, extenspending Nasus' ability to spam his abilities during intense fights.
Consider these secondary choices for maximum effect: Coup de Grace for added burst and Stopwatch for added defensive utility. These will greatly enhance Nasus' kit, improving both his survival and kill potential in the top lane.
Resolve - Boosting Sustain and Durability
For matchups where Nasus requires more sustain and durability, the Resolve tree is an excellent choice. You'll shore up Nasus' tankiness while adding additional damage through the inspirational effects provided by the tree.
Here, we'll delve into the best runes to ensure Nasus remains a consistent threat despite challenging lane opponents and team compositions.
Aftershock
Aftershock is a reliable Keystone for Nasus when he's up against aggressive top lane champions. This rune provides a significant damage reduction and attack speed boost upon taking damage, making it easier for Nasus to trade and maintain agreenvrop in the top lane.
Pair Aftershock with Guardian, providing additional healing upon taking damage. Now, Nasus can more effortlessly weather heavy lane pressure, focusing on farming and reaching his crucial levels 6 and 11 powerspikes.
Demolish and Conditioning
To make the most of Nasus' enhanced tankiness, take Demolish and Conditioning. Demolish deals increased damage to towers, making objective control later in the game even more potent. Meanwhile, Conditioning's adaptive defensive stat boosts grant Nasus additional tankiness, helping himSoak up more damage and survive longer in extended fights.
For secondary runes, consider Bone Plating for added resistance against heavy trading, and Unflinching to increase Nasus' resilience during major skirmishes.
In the hands of a skilled player, Nasus remains a formidable threat in Season 9. By understanding his rune options and adapting them to different situations, you'll ensure that the Curator of the Sands reigns victorious over your foes. Now go forth and unleash Nasus' might upon the rift!