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Akali: AP or AD? – The Ultimate Season 12 LoL Guide

Why Akali’s Rework Made Her Overpowered

Akali, the champion known for dominating mid and top lane, underwent a rework by Riot Games due to her outdated art and playstyle. The result was a completely changed Akali, who became even more overpowered than before. Players will remember her ability to dive under towers without getting hit due to her invisibility. Unsurprisingly, she quickly became one of the most banned champions in League.

Akali’s Damage Type After the Rework

Following her rework, players wondered what damage type Akali would have. It turns out that she has both AD and AP scaling on her abilities. However, her AP scaling is much stronger than her AD scaling, making her primarily built as an AP assassin. While some players have tried a Lethality build with AD items, the most common and effective build is pure Ability Power.

Best Akali Builds for Different Enemy Types

When facing champions with Magic Resist, it’s best to build items like Void Staff, Shadow Flame, Rift Maker, Demonic Embrace, Sorcerer’s Shoes, and Rabadon’s Deathcap. Against squishy champions, Rabadon’s Deathcap, Sorcerer’s Shoes, Hextech Rocketbelt, Lich Bane, Zhonya’s Hourglass, and Banshee’s Veil are recommended. For those who want to go for a Lethality Cheese build, Duskblade of Drakthar, Axiom Arc, Lich Bane, The Collector, Plated Steelcaps, Rabadon’s Deathcap, and Youmuu’s Ghostblade are the way to go.

Top Lane Dominance and Other Roles for Akali

Akali excels in the top lane and remains one of the strongest champions for that role. However, she can also be played mid depending on the counter picks. She works well with a teleport, as she can respond quickly to clean up the battlefield or focus on the enemy’s backline. Her adaptability and strong assassin abilities make her a versatile champion for various roles.

Where Akali Shines and Her Value in Team Fights

Akali’s value lies in her ability to cut off the enemy’s backline during team fights. She is a true assassin in both lore and gameplay. She excels at flanking the enemy’s backline when isolated from her team. Additionally, Akali can counter late-game tank champions by building items that allow her to deal sustained damage. Her mobility and DPS make her a valuable asset in team fights.

Closing Thoughts on Akali

Akali is undoubtedly an overpowered champion but requires practice to master. She is squishy and lacks sustain, so it’s important to use her mobility to avoid damage while dealing damage to enemy champions. With some skill and strategy, Akali can be a formidable champion on the Rift. Good luck in your next games!