Bard: A Unique Champion in League of Legends
Bard is a unique champion in League of Legends that requires proficiency to be effective. Playing at a lower level will not increase your chances of winning the game. However, there is a different approach to playing Bard using attack damage (AD) builds.
Normally, Bard is played as a support champion, focusing on items that fit the role. It is also common to see ability power (AP) Bard builds, as the champion benefits from ability power. Both of these builds rely on landing perfect “Cosmic Bindings”. However, the AD Bard build allows you to do damage without relying on that.
Understanding AD Bard Builds
There are different approaches to AD Bard builds. Some focus on the ADC build path with critical strike and attack speed. Others opt for hybrid builds, combining ability power and attack damage. On-hit builds are also popular.
Now, the question arises: which build is the most effective? Before we can answer that, let’s take a closer look at these builds.
Runes
AD Bard builds have different rune pages depending on the build path. Two recommended rune pages for AD Bard are:
Option 1
In this rune page, Precision is the primary choice, with Lethal Tempo as the best keystone. Triumph, Legend: Alacrity, and Coup De Grace are also important. “Cut Down” can be chosen against tanky or health-stacking enemies. The secondary page can be Domination with Cheap Shot and Relentless Hunter, Inspiration with Magical Footwear and Biscuit Delivery, or Sorcery with Manaflow Band and Gathering Storm.
Option 2
In this rune page, Domination is the primary choice, with Electrocute as the keystone. Cheap Shot, Eyeball Collection, and Relentless Hunter are the recommended secondary runes. The secondary page can be Sorcery with Manaflow Band and Transcendence or Gathering Storm, or Inspiration with Magical Footwear and Biscuit Delivery.
Item Build Paths
Now, let’s explore the different AD Bard build paths.
ADC Build Path
In the ADC build path, start with Doran’s Blade or Cull to enhance your laning. The core item is Kraken Slayer, followed by Rapid Firecannon and Infinity Edge. For survivability, consider Bloodthirster, Guardian Angel, Wits End, Maw of Malmortius, or Spirit Visage. If the enemy team has tanks or champions with high health, Lord Dominik’s Regard or Blade of the Ruined King can be effective.
Hybrid Build Path
In the hybrid build path, start with Doran’s Ring. Choose Kraken Slayer as your mythic item, followed by Nashor’s Tooth, Rapid Firecannon, and Deadman’s Plate. The last item can be a defensive option like Guardian Angel, Deadman’s Plate, or Maw of Malmortius, or a damage option like Wits End. Adjust the last item based on the enemy team composition.
The On-Hit Build Path
In the on-hit build path, focus on items that provide on-hit damage and attack speed. Start with Doran’s Blade or Doran’s Ring. Choose Kraken Slayer, Rapid Firecannon, Nashor’s Tooth, and Blade of the Ruined King. For the last item, consider defensive options like Guardian Angel, Deadman’s Plate, or Maw of Malmortius, or more damage options like Wits End or Lord Dominik’s Regard.
Final Thoughts
Bard is a versatile champion, and the best build depends on the team compositions. The hybrid and on-hit builds are generally the most effective for Bard. The ADC build is less ideal for Bard due to his kit not synergizing well with those items. Adapt your build according to the situation and the needs of your team.