LOR Meta and Best Meta Decks
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Welcome to our detailed article on LOR best decks! It is a thorough rundown of all the meta decks in Legends of Runeterra that is constantly updated. Make sure to refer to this article every two weeks for an analysis of every strong deck in the newest LOR meta. This guide will provide you with decklists for all the popular strategies and explanations of how to play with and play against every meta deck. Even if you make your own decks from scratch, it is important to know what you will be up against so that you can best counter your opponent’s game plan and improve your winrate!
Even small patches to Legends of Runeterra can alter the meta significantly, so each patch we’re making sure to cover every important development in the Legends of Runeterra meta. Each patch rundown starts with a short overview of the patch itself. Patches normally consist of card balance, but can also incorporate some changes to the core mechanics of the game. We will also go into detail about every strong deck that is prevalent in the LOR meta. While our picks for the best meta decks in Legends of Runeterra might be speculative, we hope that this analysis will provide both new and returning players with some valuable tips for climbing in the current LOR meta.
New LOR Meta in Patch 1.10
Hello! 
I am AkeetheGreat, a seasoned LOR Coach 
and Master-Tier Player.
Riot just released the first patch to LOR since the Call of the Mountain Expansion was released. This patch will have a huge impact on the landscape of Legends of Runeterra with some very popular card nerfs and some huge buffs to certain archetypes. LOR meta 1.10 is guaranteed to change in a significant way so look out for the decks featured below! Some of our picks for the LOR best decks will be decks that were B tier and have been buffed which is very exciting!
S TIER | Taric/Lee Sin LOR Meta 1.10
WHAT IS THE TARIC/LEE SIN DECK IN LOR META 1.10? 
This deck was not one of the LOR best decks in the last patch. Its poor ability to stay alive until Lee Sin could be brought online kept it from being high tier. However, it was always a fun deck to play and was certainly viable against certain decks. Now that Lee Sin is being reworked, I expect this deck to be among the high tier decks. Lee Sin is now a 4 cost unit which will ensure he can be developed much earlier. The deck does not have a lot of units, so getting Lee Sin out on the board at that stage of the game will be huge for the deck.
Deck Code: CEBAOAYJDMRSSMBTHJLAGAQCAMCQMAYCAMERGVIBAEBAYAICAIEQEAICAIEACAYJBQ
Tips for Playing the Taric/Lee Sin Deck 
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- Keep in mind that in LOR meta 1.10, Lee Sin’s champion spell has been changed to Sonic Wave. This can be used to trigger Lee Sin’s ability after he is placed, or even to level him up in a tight spot!
- You will not always draw into Lee Sin on turns that you need him. Zenith Blade can be used alongside Taric to serve as a sort of secondary win condition.
- When you place down Lee Sin, make sure you can protect him!! Without Lee Sin, your deck’s spells will become almost useless. Any deck in Legends of Runeterra that seeks to keep one minion alive should ensure that the minion can be protected on the turn it is developed.
Tips for Playing Against the Taric/Lee Sin Deck :
- This deck has a decent amount of healing with Eye of the Dragon and Guiding Touch. If you are playing an aggro deck, or intend to go for lethal, keep this in mind.
- When Lee Sin is leveled up, he can surprise you with the amount of damage he can do. Keep track of how many spells have been played so you know what clock your opponent is working with.
- In niche situations, you may try to block a unit buffed by Zenith Blade with a high health unit to defend against overwhelm. Don’t forget that if a unit blocking an overwhelm attacker is stunned or recalled, the full overwhelm damage goes through!!!
S TIER | Nightfall Aggro LOR Meta 1.10
WHAT IS THE NIGHTFALL AGGRO DECK IN LOR META 1.10?
The Nightfall Aggro deck was thought not to be very strong at the start of the Call of the Mountain expansion. But last patch, someone hit Rank 1 in LOR using a Nightfall Aggro decklist. Unlike most aggro decks, the Nightfall Aggro deck has been shown to be very difficult to play and very difficult to play against. Nonetheless, mastering it can help you climb effectively because, when used correctly, Nightfall Aggro can deal with a lot of the prevalent decks. Given that Cygnus, the Moonstalker was buffed, this deck may be the best aggro deck in LOR meta 1.10.
If you want to embrace the night, get some help playing Nightfall Aggro with a LOR Coach
Deck Code: CEBQCAIFF4DAGCJDHBEVQWK6AUBQKAQDAQCQMAICAMES6SYA
Tips for Playing the Nightfall Aggro Deck :
- Use your Fading Memories wisely! Fading Memories is included in the deck to work as a Nightfall Trigger, but make sure you pick the right follower to copy. If you need a bit of burn to finish off your opponent, pick Doombeast. If you are setting up for an all-out attack, you should choose a follower like Stygian Onlooker.
- With this deck, you need to be thinking about future turns. This deck is the hardest aggro deck in Legends of Runeterra because the Nightfall effect does not guarantee you proactive turns unless you plan them out. Make sure you have Nightfall activators in your early turns, and carefully plan out your attacks with Diana to make sure she has the attack to take out your opponent’s threats.
- Against other LOR meta 1.10 aggro decks, make sure to have Doombeast and Unspeakable Horror in order ensure your nexus health stays above your opponent’s. Keep in mind that Unspeakable Horror, unlike Vile Feast, can be used on the enemy nexus, so it can be used to threaten lethal.
Tips for Playing Against the Nightfall Aggro Deck :
- Pale Cascade is a combat trick that is vital to how the deck keeps minions alive and pushes for damage without losing card advantage. Always assume they have a copy in hand especially because extra copies of Diana turn into Pale Cascade when Diana is in play.
- When Nocturne levels up, he gives all allies Fearsome. Pay attention to the number of times the opponent has attacked with Nightfall cards because Nocturne can represent a game-ending threat if he flips.
- Stalking Shadows gives this deck an ephemeral copy of a follower it draws. If your opponent plays the non-ephemeral card drawn by Stalking Shadows, you know that they have an ephemeral copy of that card in hand. This is vital information so pay attention.
S TIER | Tempo Endure in LOR Meta 1.10
WHAT WILL THE TEMPO ENDURE DECK LOOK LIKE IN LOR META 1.10?
Surprisingly, Tempo Endure has remained relevant in Legends of Runeterra in spite of the release of an entire expansion! The persistent pressure of early game Shadow Isles tokens alongside a devastating late-game combo has proven to be an extremely consistent strategy. Of course, succeeding with this deck requires knowledge of the new LOR meta 1.10 decks, but this deck remains the best LOR deck in my opinion.
Deck Code: CEBQGAQFAECAMAYBAEBRMIQFAECR4KBQGE2QEAICAEDQCAIFDEAQGAIFA4FSW
Tips for Playing the Tempo Endure Deck :
- Your opponent may have the means to remove your They Who Endure, so you may want to play it when you have 13 total mana. Keep in mind that the new card Hush can shut the combo down completely! Against certain Targon decks, you may want to rely on Neverglade Collector
- Neverglade Collector is a super important draw against other token decks or the mirror match in LOR meta 1.10! Also, Neverglade Collector’s drain effect can shut down certain aggro decks.
- Only in certain situations should Glimpse Beyond be used proactively. Save it for after your opponent uses removal so you can kill your own minion first. If you really need the card draw and you know you are safe to do so, you can use it without reacting to your opponent’s move.
Tips for Playing Against the Tempo Endure Deck :
- Freezes, Silences, hard removal and Deny all counter the They Who Endure combo. If your deck runs some of these tools, make sure you save enough resources to deal with it in the late game.
- Fury of the North and Vile Feast are worthwhile cards to look out for, but keep in mind that those are the primary tricks this deck has. Generally, what is on board should be your primary concern.
- Aggro decks need a way to get through this deck’s tokens and also should have a way to deal with Neverglade Collector if the game goes long enough. Control decks need to temper this deck’s tempo and deal with the late game combo. Once this deck is out of Atrocities, it becomes a lot less powerful.
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Now that the Legends of Runeterra meta has settled since the expansion’s release, we can start determining what the best strategies are for climbing. LOR meta 1.10 is seeing many aggressive decks which means that many Legends of Runeterra players are starting to climb fast. If you want help climbing with the best LOR decks, try out our 👉 LOR Coaching 👈 and stay tuned for more LOR meta analysis in two weeks!
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New LOR Meta in Patch 1.7
Hello! I am AkeetheGreat, a seasoned LOR Coach and Master-Tier Player.
Patch 1.7 did not change any cards, but now that the meta has developed from last patch, we have a better idea of what the ranked ladder looks like. Almost every meta-defining tool from the season was nerfed last patch and the dust has finally settled. There is a healthy balance of aggro and control in LOR meta 1.7 with a majority of decks being midrange tempo decks with strong finishers. Here are our picks for the best decks to climb with in LOR meta 1.7!
S TIER | Miss Fortune Scouts Deck LOR Meta 1.7
WHAT WILL THE MISS FORTUNE SCOUTS DECK LOOK LIKE IN LOR META 1.7?
Miss Fortune Scouts is the most powerful aggro deck in LOR meta 1.7 and one of the best decks in Legends of Runeterra right now. Now that Elusives and Noxus Overwhelm decks see less play, Miss Fortune Scouts can consistently race other decks down and play for valuable early game trades that it could not in past metas.
This deck plays powerful minions on curve and uses scout minions and Rally to put out many attacks and overwhelm the opponent. Those additional attacks contribute to Miss Fortune’s level up condition and trigger her Skill to dish out constant pings to the opponent’s blockers and nexus. Some versions of the list use Lucian instead of Quinn, but I think that the Quinn version is more powerful in LOR meta 1.7.
Deck Code: CEBQKAIAAEER2JZLAIBAMCAWAMBAABQJBIBACAQAA4CACAAVDISTGAA
Tips for Playing the Miss Fortune Scouts Deck :
- This is an aggro deck, so curve is super important. War Chefs is super valuable for your strategy so get him on the board as early as possible. Having a healthy board in the early game will make you strong against LOR meta 1.7 control and midrange decks.
- Save Ranger’s Resolve for a turn that you know will get great value out of it. The card’s purpose in your deck is to allow your minions to trade up easily against your opponent’s board so that your additional attacks become that much stronger.
- Relentless Pursuit is a constant threat for your opponent. Make sure to maximize the amount of damage it will do. Very often, it is wise to use Relentless Pursuit as a finisher when your opponent is tapped out of mana.
Tips for Playing Against the Tempo Sejuani Deck Deck :
- Make sure you are playing around Ranger’s Resolve. If you have 1 damage pings in your hand, see if you can’t bait out Ranger’s Resolve in some way before you use them. Similarly, many lists run Riposte which can take you by surprise if you aren’t looking out for it.
- This deck can be easily nullified by chump blockers. Make sure that you are sacrificing your small units to mitigate damage early so that the deck will be unable to finish you off in the mid-game when your threats come online.
- Single Combat is the only removal that the deck runs. If you have a champion, a Neverglade Collector, or some other valuable unit, the only resource this deck has to get rid of it is Single Combat.
S TIER | Ashe Sejuani Midrange Deck in LOR Meta 1.7
WHAT WILL THE ASHE SEJUANI MIDRANGE DECK LOOK LIKE IN LOR META 1.7?
Ashe Sejuani continues to be an S Tier deck. Its tempo, removal, and finishers are well-positioned to counter many of the top tier decks. This deck is widely considered to be the best deck in LOR meta 1.7.
All midrange decks can play fast or reactive. Ashe Sejuani has the capability to push for tempo with Avarosan Trapper, Reckless Trifarian, and Ashe OR it can control the board with cards like Culling Strike and Icevale Archer to set up for Kato The Arm combos. The deck has many ways to win the game while also having a consistent strategy.
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Deck Code: CEBQKAIBBMLB4JRQAQAQGBAYD4QQCAQBAIBAGAIBAQVDEAIBAMNAEAICAEDQCAIDGU
Tips for Playing the Ashe Sejuani Midrange Deck :
- Trifarian Assessor is the only way you get more so make sure you are able to get value out of her at some point in the game. You should shoot for a two or three card draw.
- Midrange decks in Legends of Runeterra must shift their gameplan based on what cards they draw. If you draw a lot of Culling Strikes or an early Sejuani, then you know you will need to play slower. If you get an early curve then you should try to out-tempo your opponent.
- Pay attention to your Ashe level up progress! You might find that an early Ashe flip can set up lethal quite early if you have built up a board of strong units.
Tips for Playing Against the Ashe Sejuani Midrange Deck :
- The Reckoning can end games if you are playing around it. Be looking at your opponent’s minions and mana to make sure that they can’t pull off a disastrous Reckoning to clear your board. Additionally, Harsh Winds is a 6 mana burst speed threat that, in combination with Culling Strike, can remove any unit.
- Culling Strike triggers at fast speed so if you can buff the targeted unit’s attack to 4 or more, you can stop the effect of the spell.
- When an Ashe is on the field, all of your opponent’s other Ashes will turn into Flash Freeze. It is vital that you remember that as you keep track of what Frostbite cards your opponent has used and how close Ashe is to levelling up.
S TIER | Tempo Endure in LOR Meta 1.7
WHAT WILL TEMPO ENDURE LOOK LIKE IN LOR META 1.7?
In my opinion, Tempo Endure is the strongest deck in LOR meta 1.7. Even though many people think that Ashe Sejuani Midrange is the best deck, Tempo Endure has favorable matchups against a vast majority of the popular decks in LOR meta 1.7. To give you an idea of how strong this deck is, the decklist I provide below is the exact list with which I hit Masters in Legends of Runeterra this season!
The way this deck functions is that it floods the board with tokens and token synergy cards like Blighted Caretaker and Kalista. Then, after sacrificing some of those minions and getting some nexus damage in, the deck uses either They Who Endure + Atrocity or Neverglade Collector to close out the game.
Deck Code: CECAEAQFAQDAGAIBAMLCEBABAUPCQMBRAEBACBYCAMAQKCYZGUAQEBIBAIAQCBIHAEBACAQ
Tips for Playing the Tempo Endure Deck :
- Your late game combo is very strong, but disruptable. If your They Who Endure is Frostbitten, Recalled, or otherwise removed before you get a chance to attack with it or get your Atrocity off on it, the damage will not go through.
- Neverglade Collector will be your main win condition against other token decks. In LOR meta 1.7, that could be Discard Aggro, Spider Aggro, or some older forms of Noxus aggro.
- Only use Glimpse Beyond proactively if you know your opponent cannot interrupt it or if you have no other choice. In all other circumstances, it should be used reactively.
Tips for Playing Against the Tempo Endure Deck :
- If you have Frostbite or hard removal, it is imperative that you save it for They Who Endure + Atrocity! That combo will inevitably threaten what is left of your life total in the mid to late-game.
- Fury of the North and Vile Feast are relevant considerations during each exchange. The former can push for more damage or create favorable trades, while the latter is a great stall tool that summons a token. Keep in mind that, besides Vile Feast, this deck does not run removal!
- Even though Elusive cards do not see as much play in LOR meta 1.7, it is important to note that Tempo Endure does not have good ways to deal with Elusive minions. The deck has a lot of small units, but no removal or elusive blockers to deal with Elusive aggression.
If you want to learn how to win against Tempo Endure and other popular decks, try a Professional LOR Coach!
A TIER | Ezreal Twisted Fate Deck in LOR Meta 1.7
WHAT WILL THE EZREAL TWISTED FATE DECK LOOK LIKE IN LOR META 1.7?
Ezreal Twisted Fate was a relevant archetype a couple of patches ago and it is now known to be one of the best decks in LOR meta 1.7. However, I do not think it is as strong as many others do. Nonetheless, it is a very popular deck and is therefore worth discussion.
This is the first deck that has shown up on our list that can be considered primarily a combo deck. The aim of the deck is to accumulate Ezreal triggers with removal, or to instantly level up Ezreal with Riptide Rex on turn 8. Once Ezreal is flipped, the game is basically already over as the deck’s fast and burst speed spells will instantly burn down the opposing nexus health.
Deck Code: CEBAGAIEDMSDIBYCAYEAWGQ4EEWTUAQDAIDASFBRAIAQIHZNAA
Tips for Playing the Ezreal Twisted Fate Deck :
- Twisted Fate is an important secondary win condition. Statikk Shock, Pilfered Goods, and Pool Shark can help you level Twisted Fate quickly and make him a huge threat to your opponent’s board.
- When in doubt, survive until turn 8! Once you slam down Riptide Rex, you know that there is nothing your opponent can do to stop your Ezreal from leveling. Make sure to use Ezreal wisely when you draw him because he is vital to your burn combo.
- Thermogenic Beam is the only way you can get rid of big units. Make a note of what big units your opponent plans to play and try to make Thermogenic Beam available when an otherwise unremovable threat presents itself.
Tips for Playing Against the Ezreal Twisted Fate Deck :
- Thermogenic Beam is the only way this deck can threaten your high health units. Use this to your advantage by either baiting it out early or saving something like a barrier or a Deny to deal with it.
- This deck has a lot of 1 damage pings, make sure that you are aware of that fact as you build out your board. Furthermore, Twisted Fate is always something you should be looking out for when your opponent has 4 mana. Because Twisted Fate is a slow speed threat, you should open attack when a Gold or Red card would worsen your attack.
- Pay attention to the level up progress of Ezreal and Twisted Fate!!! With this deck more than with any other deck in LOR meta 1.7, you should be keeping track of champion triggers. A flipped Ezreal or Twisted Fate can completely turn around the game, so do not let too many cards get drawn with Twisted Fate on the board and do not let your units get targeted too often before you know you can win the game.
There are many viable decks in LOR meta 1.7, but the ones shown here are the most relevant and powerful among them. It may be overwhelming to see so many different types of decks on ladder, but if you stick with one of these decks and take these tips to heart, you will have the tools to climb as far as you want in Legends of Runeterra. Check back here in two weeks to see what the new meta’s LOR best decks will look like next patch. Also, try our coaching service for some additional assistance on your journey to the top! 👉 LOR Coaching 👈.
New LOR Meta in Patch 1.6
Hello! I am AkeetheGreat, a seasoned LOR Coach and Master-Tier Player.
With the release of Patch 1.6, the game is about to change drastically. As we expected, almost every meta-defining tool from the season has been nerfed. This will usher in a fairly chaotic meta with many different viable concepts. In the recent metas, the fastest decks saw the most success Legends of Runeterra. Given the changes to Noxus Aggro and nerfs to countless other important cards, LOR meta 1.6 will see a lot more midrange and a lot less burn.
S TIER | Tempo Sejuani Deck LOR Meta 1.6
WHAT WILL THE TEMPO SEJUANI DECK LOOK LIKE IN LOR META 1.6?
Last patch, aggro was extremely dominant, but also extremely straightforward. Now that so many of the aggro tools have been changed, LOR meta 1.6 will see entirely new aggro concepts and old tempo decks that make a big return. The Tempo Sejuani deck will fall into the latter category.
Tempo Sejuani is a deck that saw a lot of play right after the release of the rising tides expansion. Its ability to build a strong board and reliably close out the game with powerful mid-game units like Sejuani and Riptide Rex should make it a contender for S Tier in LOR meta 1.6. This deck had none of its cards see any nerfs and Miss Fortune is speculated to be the best aggro champion in LOR meta 1.6, so expect to see this deck pop up in all ranks of play.
Deck Code: CEBQUAQGAUEAWFAVCYOCCOR6AEAQCFQCAIAQEBYAAEAQEBQR
Tips for Playing the Tempo Sejuani Deck :
- As with all tempo decks, it is necessary that you mulligan for a good curve. In particular, Omen Hawk, Hired Gun, Miss Fortune, and Petty Officer are powerful early game units that will help you take control of the board.
- Fury of the North is one of the few spells you have in the deck and it is extremely important to get value out of it. It can be used to win an important trade against your opponent or push for lethal.
- Keep in mind that Sejuani has Overwhelm. You can use her Play ability to remove an important minion from the board by trading with it, or to give vulnerable to a low health minion and set up lethal with Sejuani’s Overwhelm damage.
Tips for Playing Against the Tempo Sejuani Deck Deck :
- Tempo Sejuani is unique in that it has very few spells. As a result, you should evaluate the board state as it is and not worry about too many of the traditional Freljord and Bilgewater tricks. That being said, the deck does run Fury of the North, Riptide Rex, and Sejuani which can all impact the board in a substantial way so make sure to look out for those.
- Tempo Sejuani does not have efficient ways of dealing with Elusive units and burn spells. If your deck runs either of those, make sure to use them to your advantage.
- If you are playing a control deck, you need to get ahead of this deck’s massive tempo. This can be done by using removal on Sejuani or Miss Fortune and by making efficient use of healing.
S TIER | Ashe Sejuani Midrange Deck in LOR Meta 1.6
WHAT WILL THE ASHE SEJUANI MIDRANGE DECK LOOK LIKE IN LOR META 1.6?
Ashe Sejuani was an A Tier deck throughout the past few metas, but was always beat out by the extremely fast Noxus decks. Now that Noxus Aggro will see less play from the nerfs to Crimson Disciple and Legion Grenadier, this midrange deck should be one of the strongest options in LOR meta 1.6.
Like all midrange decks, this deck can play fast or it can play reactive. It has the capability to push for tempo with Avarosan Trapper, Reckless Trifarian, and Ashe. But it can also control the board with cards like Culling Strike and Harsh Winds to set up for Kato The Arm combos. The deck has many ways to win the game while also having a consistent strategy.
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Deck Code: CEBQKAIBBMLB4JRQAQAQGBAYD4QQCAQBAIBAGAIBAQVDEAIBAMNAEAICAEDQCAIDGU
Tips for Playing the Ashe Sejuani Midrange Deck :
- Trifarian Assessor is your only draw engine so make sure you are able to get value out of her at some point in the game. The deck runs a lot of five attack minions so it should not be too difficult to achieve a two or three card draw.
- As is the case with all midrange decks in Legends of Runeterra, your game plan is heavily dependent on your draw. If you draw a lot of Culling Strikes or an early Sejuani, then you know you will need to play more slowly. If you get an early curve then you should try to out-tempo your opponent.
- Levelling your Ashe is another win condition this deck has. Pay attention to your Frostbite triggers and you might find that an early Ashe attack can close out the game.
Tips for Playing Against the Ashe Sejuani Midrange Deck :
- Watch out for The Reckoning! The card can singlehandedly win games for your opponent if you are not looking out for it on 6 mana. Additionally, Harsh Winds is a 6 mana threat that triggers at burst speed.
- Culling Strike is a valuable card in the deck but it can be played around. The card triggers at fast speed so if you can buff the targeted unit’s attack to 4 or more, you can stop the effect of the spell.
- If Ashe levels up, she can quickly threaten to end the game. Pay attention to how many triggers remain before she flips.
S TIER | Tempo Endure in LOR Meta 1.6
WHAT WILL TEMPO ENDURE LOOK LIKE IN LOR META 1.6?
Tempo Endure saw play a couple of metas ago, but was dropped by many Legends of Runeterra players when Cursed Keeper was nerfed. Now that there are fewer viable Elusive strategies with the Ionia changes, the tempo version of the Endure archetype should start seeing a lot of play in LOR meta 1.6.
This deck puts a lot of pressure on in the early game with Barkbeast, Cursed Keeper, Elise, Blighted Caretaker, and Kalista. Then, after sacking some minions and getting some nexus damage in, the powerful late-game combo of They Who Endure plus Atrocity is used to wipe out your opponent.
Deck Code: CEBQEAQFAQDAGAIBAMLCEBIBAUPCQMBRGUBQGAIFA4FRSAICAEDQCAQFAEAA
Tips for Playing the Tempo Endure Deck :
- Make sure that your late-game combo will not be interrupted. Given that, your opponent may have the means to remove your They Who Endure, you should play it when you have 13 total mana. Wait for your opponent to use their removal before you Atrocity on the same turn for lethal. Even though Ionia will be much less prevalent, some regions may still have the means to stop the combo from going through.
- Neverglade Collector is a super important draw against other token decks. You will likely see many other token decks in LOR 1.6 given that Elusives were nerfed this patch.
- Glimpse Beyond should be used reactively. Save it for after your opponent uses removal so you can kill your own minion first.
Tips for Playing Against the Tempo Endure Deck :
- Frostbite is a huge counter to the They Who Endure combo. If you are playing Freljord, save Harsh Winds or Flash Freeze for They Who Endure as it will cancel your opponent’s entire combo. Additionally, hard removal and Deny both work to stop the combo in its tracks.
- Besides the main combo, watch out for Fury of the North and Vile Feast. The former can create favorable trades, while the latter is a great stall tool that creates a token.
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A TIER | Basilisk Rider Aggro in LOR Meta 1.6
WHAT WILL BASILISK RIDER AGGRO LOOK LIKE IN LOR META 1.6?
The Noxus Harrowing version of Basilisk Rider Aggro may be one of the only forms of Noxus Aggro that survives the nerfs to aggressive Noxus cards. The deck should remain entirely the same in LOR meta 1.6, but will miss out on little bits of damage here and there.
The reason that this deck should remain relatively unaffected is that cards like Darius and The Harrowing, which are the main finishers of the deck, are not made less effective by the nerfs. Nonetheless, the deck will drop from S Tier to A Tier in LOR meta 1.6.
Deck Code: CEBAMAIDBAHRIHRFF4BQEAYDAQCQEBIBAMBBQJRIG4AQCBIDAEAQCAZO
Tips for Playing the Basilisk Rider Aggro Deck :
- Make sure you have a good curve. It is vital to your strategy that you curve out well and get Overwhelm damage in. There will be fewer ways to get substantial damage to your opponent’s nexus without Overwhelm units in LOR meta 1.6 and your attacks will not be powerful if you dont have a curve.
- Darius, The Harrowing, and Decimate are a big investment of resources. Given the changes to Ionia, you will likely need to worry about Will of Ionia and Deny less. However, Freljord will likely be extremely popular and freeze effects can completely stop your Darius from hitting for damage.
- As with all Noxus aggro decks in LOR meta 1.6, Imperial Demolitionist and Transfusion are best used on Crimson Disciple. Unfortunately, Crimson Disciple was made substantially worse with the nerf to her damage, but she still does a decent amount of burn and direct damage only helps your strategy.
Tips for Playing Against the Basilisk Rider Aggro Deck :
- You will generally want healing, mana-efficient removal, or freeze effects in your deck. Save your hard removal or Flash Freeze for the big Overwhelm units like Darius and Basilisk Rider as much of the deck’s damage comes from getting those attacks in.
- Play around Transfusion and Noxian Fervor. Make sure to kill the minion targeted by Noxian Fervor before the spell resolves, so the damage does not go through.
- Blockers will only matter in the early game as the Basilisk Rider deck’s powerful Overwhelm units will get damage in even if you block them. This deck will be slower to kill you than it has been in the past so focus on your own strategy rather than trying to counter your opponent’s.
LOR meta 1.6 will look extremely different from the recent metas. It is still unclear exactly what LOR best decks will look like this patch, but if you play and look out for the decks on out list, you will certainly have an edge on the competition. Given that new strategies should arise that have not been seen before, make sure to check back here in two weeks to see what the new meta’s LOR best decks will look like next patch. Also, if you want some more help evolving your game with the ever-changing meta, try our coaching service! 👉 LOR Coaching 👈.
New LOR Meta in Patch 1.5
Hi there! This is AkeetheGreat, seasoned LOR Coach and Master-Tier Player.
Patch 1.5 was recently released and it was one of the smallest updates we have seen. Only two cards were changed and both were cards that do not have a huge place in the LOR meta. As a result, the LOR best decks should not change too much. Last patch, Legends of Runeterra saw one of the fastest metas it has ever seen. LOR meta 1.5 should continue to have primarily aggressive top tier decks and excessive control strategies to counter the aggression.
S TIER | Basilisk Rider Aggro in LOR Meta 1.5
WHAT DOES BASILISK RIDER AGGRO LOOK LIKE IN LOR META 1.5?
Basilisk Rider Aggro was a new concept to the last meta and it should make a big return in LOR meta 1.5. Due to last patch’s buff to Basilisk Rider, the card became a huge damage threat early on in the game (kind of like a more mana-efficient Darius). The viability of Basilisk Rider spawned an entirely new archetype using Overwhelm to push early damage and closing out the game with Noxus finishers.
This deck is found everywhere in the meta so knowing how the deck plays is super important even to players who plan not to use the deck themselves in LOR meta 1.5. Also, there are many versions of the deck, so the version I will show is the one that I think will do the best in the upcoming meta. This deck is one of the LOR best decks and the best aggro strategy in the game right now.
Deck Code: CEBAMAIDBAHRIHRFF4BQEAYDAQCQEBIBAMBBQJRIG4AQCBIDAEAQCAZO
Tips for Playing the Basilisk Rider Aggro Deck :
- You want to be mulliganing for a good curve. Having a good curve is super important in LOR meta 1.5 given how fast the game is right now. You should only really keep Basilisk Rider or Darius in your opening hand if you know that you will have plays on the first 3 turns of the game. Otherwise, you risk losing the tempo that is vital to your strategy.
- Darius, The Harrowing, and Decimate are your main finishers, but they are a big investment of resources. Make sure you can safely cast The Harrowing, get Decimate damage in or get an attack through with Darius as those are your main ways to closing out the game.
- As with all Noxus aggro decks in LOR meta 1.5, Imperial Demolitionist and Transfusion are best used on Crimson Disciple. Crimson Disciple combos represent huge mana-efficient burn combos that can turn a game in your favor easily.
Tips for Playing Against the Basilisk Rider Aggro Deck :
- If you are playing a control deck in LOR meta 1.5, you will generally want healing, mana-efficient removal, or freeze effects in your deck. Save cards like Will of Ionia or Flash Freeze for the big Overwhelm units like Darius and Basilisk Rider as much of the deck’s damage comes from getting those attacks in. If you have Deny it is critical that you use it on either The Harrowing or Decimate.
- Make sure you are playing around Transfusion and Noxian Fervor. If you kill the minion targeted by Noxian Fervor before the spell resolves, the damage will not go through.
- Blockers will only really matter in the early game as the Basilisk Rider deck’s powerful Overwhelm units will get damage in even if you block them. You should mulligan for some blockers early game but make sure that you are prioritizing removal or your own tempo strategy.
S TIER | Heimerdinger Vi Deck in LOR Meta 1.5
WHAT WILL THE HEIMERDINGER VI DECK LOOK LIKE IN LOR META 1.5?
Patch 1.5 changed Heimerdinger Vi’s early game bruiser, Solitary Monk. This card was primarily used to contend the treacherous early game to set up for the big mid-game Heimerdinger combos. Nonetheless, its removal tools and insurmountable value combo should be enough to keep this deck in the top spots of LOR meta 1.5. The only real change to the deck is the reduction of Solitary Monk to a “2 of.”
Keep in mind, this deck is expected to be nerfed next balance patch alongside some of the Noxus aggro tools. As a result, if you are used to playing this deck, be warned that it may become less strong in the future.
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Deck Code: CECAKAIECANSONBYAIBAEAIJAMAQEAQMHEAQEBAIAEBQCARFEYYQCAIBAQPQ
Tips for Playing the Heimerdinger Vi Deck :
- You should only play Heimerdinger when you know you can keep him alive. Some decks in LOR meta 1.5 will have tools to remove him so be careful!
- Especially with the nerf to Solitary Monk, you will want to hard mulligan for removal and what few minions you have. Spirit’s Refuge will also be an important pickup against LOR meta 1.5 aggro decks as it is your only source of healing.
Tips for Playing Against the Heimerdinger Vi Deck :
- Kill Heimerdinger as soon as possible. The main win condition of the deck is to get value out of Heimer’s turrets, so you will need to bring him down before the he comes online. Beware of Twin Disciplines and Spirit’s Refuge as they are used to keep Heimerdinger alive. Heimerdinger is the most valuable minion in Legends of Runeterra if he stays on the board for more than a couple turns.
- Play as aggressively as you can. The Heimerdinger Vi deck will run you over if you let them get too far into the game. If you have cards like Glimpse Beyond or Noxian Fervor, use them reactively against removal or Spirit’s Refuge for value.
S TIER | Braum Anivia Deck in LOR Meta 1.5
WHAT DOES BRAUM ANIVIA LOOK LIKE IN LOR META 1.5?
The Braum Anivia control archetype was viable long ago, but became extremely powerful last meta. The buffs to Braum and Anivia made them prime candidates for filling the need for a control deck to counter the aggression in the meta. In LOR meta 1.5, the Braum Anivia deck should serve the same role as it did after last patch. The changes that patch 1.5 made were minimal, so Braum Anivia should remain one of the LOR best decks.
The deck uses premium healing and control tools from Shadow Isles and Freljord to survive until the later game. Then, it drops down Anivia and revives her multiple times with The Rekindler to eventually win the game.
Deck Code: CEBQIAIBAMERQMQFAECRIHJAFAYQCAQBA4BAIAIFAEHSWNQBAEAQWAA
Tips for Playing the Braum Anivia Deck :
- You are favored against most aggro decks, but you should know what to mulligan against them. Kindly Tavernkeeper, Icevale Archer, and Vile Feast are vital to keeping yourself alive against the popular LOR meta 1.5 aggro decks. Chump blockers like Hapless Aristocrat and Avarosan Sentry are good for stopping wide Demacia boards and removal is necessary for dealing with Elusive decks.
- Against other control decks, you should be trying to play around big threats by saving your removal for your opponent’s valuable units. This deck has many ways to use a lot of mana fast, so don’t over commit because you always want to be the one reacting to your opponent’s threats. For example, you should use Glimpse Beyond reactively to ensure that you get the card draw and devalue your opponent’s committed removal option. However, not too many players are using control decks and Braum Anivia is designed to deal with the pace of aggressive decks.
Tips for Playing Against the Braum Anivia Deck :
- Braum Anivia struggles against Ionia in particular. Freljord and Shadow Isles do not have too many ways to deal with Elusive minions besides removal. Also, Will of Ionia can be used on Anivia to remove her from the board without triggering The Rekindler’s condition to summon her again. And Deny can be used to stop you opponent’s big spells like Ruination and The Harrowing.
- Midrange decks will have the best chance against Braum Anivia. This deck’s healing can keep it alive in the early game, and its powerful late game Anivia combo will inevitably close out the game later on. The only way to get consistent wins against Braum Anivia is to overwhelm them in the midgame when they are setting up the Anivia Rekindler combo.
Click here to learn how to play or play against Braum Anivia with a Professional LOR Coach
A TIER | Kinkou Elusives Deck in LOR Meta 1.5
WHAT DOES KINKOU ELUSIVES LOOK LIKE IN LOR META 1.5?
The last patch created one of the fastest metas Legends of Runeterra has ever seen. As a result, Kinkou Elusives was one of the LOR best decks for a while. However, the Basilisk Rider Aggro deck proved to be even faster than Kinkou Elusives. Given that and the change to Solitary Monk, Kinkou Elusives should become an A tier deck in LOR meta 1.5.
The goals of the deck remain the same: attack with unblockable elusive units and keep those elusive units alive with buff and denial cards.
Deck Code: CEBAEAIBAQLASAICAIDBCFIXFAWDEOICAIAQECIMAEBACBYBAEAQEMI
Tips for Playing the Kinkou Elusives Deck :
- Make sure that you have a good curve! LOR meta 1.5 requires a much more tempo oriented strategy, so make sure you are being proactive in the early game.
- Use Elixir of Iron to save your minions, but use Fury of the North as a finisher. Given the pace of the game, Fury of the North should be used offensively to ensure that you have a way of closing out the game.
- Use Deny and Will of Ionia on your opponent’s big threats. In LOR meta 1.5 more than in any other meta, those two cards have potential to get huge value. Using Will of Ionia on a Heimerdinger or a Darius can set your opponent back too far to recover.
Tips for Playing Against the Kinkou Elusives Deck :
- In LOR meta 1.5, many decks will be able to out-tempo Kinkou Elusives. If you are playing an aggressive deck, see if it is possible to get ahead of them in tempo as Kinkou Elusives does not have too many tools for getting back in the game.
- Control decks should keep in mind that Kinkou Elusives has many ways to buff their elusive units and save them from removal. Play around Elixir of Iron, Deny, Twin Disciplines and Fury of the North.
LOR meta 1.5 will be almost identical to the meta before it. Watch out for some of the LOR best decks like Basilisk Rider Aggro and Heimerdinger Vi as they will likely continue to dominate the Legends of Runeterra ladder. The next balance patch was foreshadowed to include some pretty invasive changes, so make sure to check back here in two weeks because the LOR best decks are guaranteed to change a lot. If you want to get hands-on training with a Masters player to stay ahead of the competition, try our LOR coaching service! 👉 LOR Coaching 👈.
LOR Meta & Best Decks – Ending thoughts
Thanks for checking out our Legends of Runeterra meta analysis. Our expert coaches study the game thoroughly whenever a new patch is being released to stay updated on popular strategies and what the best decks are. When choosing what decks to present to you, we take into account the deck’s archetype, power, and general place in the meta. That way, if you want to play one of the decks we recommend, you will have the option to choose a play style that suits you. At the very least, we hope our content helps you to familiarize yourself with common ladder decks so that you can remain aware of what decks you likely face. Remember that the best decks change frequently. Riot is constantly patching and adding new content to their game which keeps the LOR meta fluctuating. So just like how Riot releases a balance patch every two weeks, we update our LOR meta article every two weeks. Keep that in mind, as bookmarking this page might help you when you’d like to get some ideas of what to play on a new patch. Thanks for reading and good luck on your climb!
